Abstract: A multi-port valve arrangement and removable valve element for use in sanitary environments that comprises at least three ports formed by the joining of at least two valve casing bodies at angles necessary to accommodate multiple connecting fluid streams. A seamless, flexible element is used within the valve arrangement to connect the fluid streams. The valve casings may be hinged on one side to permit removal of the top portion of the valve casings and removal/exchange of the flexible element without complete disassembly of the valve casing and without the use of tools.

Abstract: A multi-port valve arrangement and removable valve element for use in sanitary environments that comprises at least three ports formed by the joining of at least two valve casing bodies at angles necessary to accommodate multiple connecting fluid streams. A seamless, flexible element is used within the valve arrangement to connect the fluid streams. The valve casings may be hinged on one side to permit removal of the top portion of the valve casings and removal/exchange of the flexible element without complete disassembly of the valve casing and without the use of tools.

Abstract: A multi-port valve arrangement and removable valve element for use in sanitary environments that comprises at least three ports formed by the joining of at least two valve casing bodies at angles necessary to accommodate multiple connecting fluid streams. A seamless, flexible element is used within the valve arrangement to connect the fluid streams. The valve casings may be hinged on one side to permit removal of the top portion of the valve casings and removal/exchange of the flexible element without complete disassembly of the valve casing and without the use of tools.

Abstract: A gasketless, straight-through bore fluid flow pinch valve and flexible, removable tubing element for improved sanitary conditions in production facilities. The valve casing is joined by fittings that enable separation of the casing to remove and replace the flexible element, which includes all wetted surfaces. The fittings may be one or more hinges to permit partial separation of the valve casing, which permits the element to remain on-line while maintenance is performed on the valve. The flexible element is a silicone or PTFE-composite which is in an axially compressed state when locked into the valve by rigid, tolerance-fitted backup cups on the molded ends of the element, which increases the process life of the element.

Abstract: A re-usable fitting for a flexible hose includes a body and a nut that have opposed tapering ribs or barbs in complementary pairs that engage the hose substantially as the body and nut are fully tightened. The body forms a hollow nipple extending from a base portion to a head with a series of axially spaced annular barbs and has screw thread formed near the base. Inserting the nipple into an end of the hose flares the end of the hose. The nut has internal screw threads and a complementary set of opposite barbs. Tightening the nut on the nipple displaces the opposed barbs axially until aligned in complementary pairs to annularly constrict the hose. Each annular constriction is smaller than the wall thickness of the hose, both engaging the hose and displacing the hose into gaps on opposite axial sides of each annular constriction.