Patents by Inventor Fabian M. Van De Graff

Fabian M. Van De Graff has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Quick release clamp for bonnet and flange of gate valves
    Patent number: 5597184
    Abstract: A clamp for quick release of a generally rectangular bonnet to the flange of valve body is disclosed. The upper side of the edge of the rectangular bonnet is formed with a bevel of about 20 degrees and the lower side of the edge of the body flange is formed with a similar bevel. The clamp consists of semi-circular ends and straight sides hinged together. One side is split and connected by a toggle latch. In cross-section, each clamp section is generally C-shaped, with the top and bottom arms of the C being beveled so that as the clamp sections are drawn inward the bevels wedge the bonnet against the flange. Locating pins fitting into holes in the plate and flange locate the parts and resist implosion when the valve body is subjected to vacuum. To maintain uniform clamping force around the circumference of the bonnet the bevels at the middles of the sides may be less wide than at the ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: High Vacuum Apparatus Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur J. Brenes, Fabian M. Van De Graff