Abstract: This invention relates to an orifice valve having a moveable gate to control the flow of solids in a closed conveying system. The invention encompasses a valve housing with two complementary valve sections, each of a unitary construction. A single plate is laser cut and bent to present a first planar surface, two opposed sidewalls and an end wall. The sidewalls include an integral flange section which presents planar surfaces that are placed in facing relationship with the planar flange surfaces of a second housing member so that the two form a closed cavity. A blade is received in the cavity and is reciprocal between open and closed positions so as to accommodate the flow of material or to block the flow. Appropriate retainers hold the two sections in place. In the preferred embodiment a second end wall is also integral with the housing section and is formed from the same plate stock as the first planar section, the sidewalls and the first end wall.

Abstract: A high-pressure gate valve for control of bulk materials includes a main body with an opening for passing bulk material, an upper body, a slidable blade, and lifting structure configured to raise the blade in a planar motion, perpendicular to the primary direction of travel and seal it against the upper body when the blade is extended. An actuating cylinder coupled with a rear edge of the blade extends and retracts the blade. A rear portion of the valve is enclosed to protect the rear edge of the blade, the actuating cylinder, and the coupling between the two.

Abstract: A multi-layered copper line structure of a semiconductor device with a lower copper line, an upper copper line, and a via contact, which electrically connects the lower copper line and the upper copper line, can incorporate one or more dummy via contacts to reduce the occurrence of voids in the via contacts. The one or more dummy via contacts can be formed adjacent the via contact and non-electrically connected to the lower copper line.

Abstract: A high-pressure gate valve for control of bulk materials includes a main body with an opening for passing bulk material, an upper body, a slideable blade, and lifting structure configured to raise the blade in a planar motion, perpendicular to the primary direction of travel and seal it against the upper body when the blade is extended. An actuating cylinder coupled with a rear edge of the blade extends and retracts the blade. A rear portion of the valve is enclosed to protect the rear edge of the blade, the actuating cylinder, and the coupling between the two.

Abstract: A gate valve for controlling the flow of a material is provided which has first and second flange assemblies oriented adjacent to one another. Each of the flange assemblies has an opening through which the material can flow. A pair of load seals are placed between the first and second flange assemblies and a pair of pressure plates are placed between the load seals. A blade is located between the pressure plates and has an opening therein which is sized similarly to the openings in the first and second flange assemblies. The blade is movable between an open position such that the openings of the first and second flange assemblies are aligned with the opening of the blade, and a closed position such that the opening of the blade is not aligned with the openings of the first and second flange assemblies so that material is prevented from flowing past the blade. The first and second flange assemblies are coupled together with a coupling mechanism operable without the use of any tools.