Abstract: The present valve cartridge allows for the mixing of a first and second fluid flow. The cartridge (100) is formed by a shaft (102) slidably engaged in a sleeve (104). A gasket (106) surrounds the sleeve at one end. The sleeve has a first and second input aperture (124a, 124b). These apertures can cannot communicate with an output aperture (126) when the shaft is fully inserted into the sleeve. The volume of flow through the cartridge is increased upon retreating the shaft from the sleeve. The gasket (106) provides three barrier means to prevent leakage of the first fluid source into the second fluid source. A first barrier means (128a, 128b) are immediately adjacent to the inputs. The second barriers (136a, 136b) are positioned to prevent longitudinal flow of the fluid which overcomes the first barriers. A third barrier means (130, 132) prevent lateral flow of fluid which overcomes the first barriers. In another embodiment, a washer (210) compliments a ledge 206 on the outer surface of the sleeve.

Abstract: The present valve cartridge allows for the mixing of a first and second fluid flow. The cartridge (100) is formed by a shaft (102) slidably engaged in a sleeve (104). A gasket (106) surrounds the sleeve at one end. The sleeve has a first and second input aperture (124a, 124b). These apertures can cannot communicate with an output aperture (126) when the shaft is fully inserted into the sleeve. The volume of flow through the cartridge is increased upon retreating the shaft from the sleeve. The gasket (106) provides three barrier means to prevent leakage of the first fluid source into the second fluid source. A first barrier means (128a, 128b) are immediately adjacent to the inputs. The second barriers (136a, 136b) are positioned to prevent longitudinal flow of the fluid which overcomes the first barriers. A third barrier means (130, 132) prevent lateral flow of fluid which overcomes the first barriers.