Abstract: A break away check valve that minimizes water hammer effect while closing and for use with a wet barrel fire hydrant and water main is provided. The valve includes a controllable resistance system that applies a desired resistance (dampening) to the valve's valve plates as the valve plates translate from an open position to a closed position. The resistance system includes a hydraulic piston with a tapered end that moves through an orifice filled with oil. As the increasing diameter of the piston moves into and passes through the orifice, the resistance to the piston increases. With the piston physically engaged with the valve plates, the valve plates are dampened accordingly.

Abstract: A double-sided break-away bolt including a precision weakened area enabling the bolt to break into two or more sections upon predefined conditions is provided. The break-away bolt is adapted to connect a fire hydrant to a check valve with the weakened portion generally positioned at the junction between the hydrant and the valve. A force applied to the fire hydrant in a direction generally perpendicular to the break-away bolt (e.g., by a car colliding with the hydrant) may cause the break-away bolt to break at the weakened area. This in return facilitates the separation of the hydrant from the check valve allowing the check valve to close. The break-away bolt also includes a gripping element that becomes exposed upon the breaking of the bolt to facilitate the removal of the bolt from the check valve for replacement.

Abstract: A break away check valve that minimizes water hammer effect while closing and for use with a wet barrel fire hydrant and water main is provided. The valve includes a controllable resistance system that applies a desired resistance (dampening) to the valve's valve plates as the valve plates translate from an open position to a closed position. The resistance system includes a hydraulic piston with a tapered end that moves through an orifice filled with oil. As the increasing diameter of the piston moves into and passes through the orifice, the resistance to the piston increases. With the piston physically engaged with the valve plates, the valve plates are dampened accordingly.

Abstract: A break-away check valve is provided. The check valve may be configured between two passageways and may regulate the flow of liquid between the passageways. The check valve may include an actuation assembly that may actuate the check valve upon the system becoming dislodged or otherwise dislocated from at least one of the passageways.

Abstract: A break-away check valve is provided. The check valve may be configured between two passageways and may regulate the flow of liquid between the passageways. The check valve may include an actuation assembly that may actuate the check valve upon the system becoming dislodged or otherwise dislocated from at least one of the passageways.

Abstract: A device for quickly, easily, and safely attaching to a vertical structural member to provide a step or support platform. Safety features incorporated in the structure of the device prevent accidental disengagement from the stud, and include a provision requiring the platform to be raised at least 30.degree. above the horizontal to allow the device to be disengaged from the stud, a flexible snap finger to prevent accidental rotation and a hook type structure to prevent lateral displacement.