Abstract: A fluid control system for use with toxic or corrosive gases (for example) has been provided that includes a fluid pressure regulator comprising a fluid inlet; a fluid outlet; a first fluid flow path between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet; a valve seat positioned in the first fluid flow path and dividing the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet; a valve element regulating flow through the valve seat; a generally cylindrical membrane defining an inflatable fluid cavity that moves axially, responsive to inflation; a wall portion of the cavity that moves responsive to inflation and deflation of the cavity; a second fluid flow path communicating between the cavity and a source of pressure outside the cavity; and a link transmitting the movement of the wall portion to the valve element, thereby moving the valve element with respect to the valve seat responsive to inflation and deflation of the cavity.

Abstract: A breakaway coupling for a fuel supply hose includes a male tubular valve body interfitting with or female tubular valve body and defining a fuel supply passage, and the valve bodies enclose axially moveable spring biased valve members. The valve bodies are connected by releasable connecting means which provide for moving the valve bodies from a connected position to a disconnected position in response to a substantial axial tension force on the valve bodies. The valve bodies have cooperating peripherally extending and opposing cam surfaces effective to move the valve bodies from the connected position to the disconnected position in response to relative rotation of the valve bodies and cam surfaces. The valve bodies may also define a vapor return passage with an axially movable valve member and disposed either radially outboard or inboard of the fuel supply passage.

Abstract: A sterile to sterile connection device comprising a connector and one or more coupling devices. The connector has body portion which has two openings sealed from the environment so as to form a sterile environment within the connector. At least one of the openings being sealed from the environment by a sterile barrier plug. The connector also has a port capable movement within the body of the connector to at least an open and a closed position. The coupling device is formed of a body having two openings and a stem having a bore through at least a portion of the stem. The stem is contained within the body and capable of moving at least linearly through the body between a first and second stem position. One of the openings of the stem is sealed from the environment by a sterile barrier plug and the other is sealed to a presterilized component. The coupling device opening containing the sterile barrier plug is attached to either the inlet or outlet of the connector.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for servicing a pressurized system is described. A purge fitting can be used to vent the pressurized system. Venting can release a gas, such as air, from the system. The pressurized system can be a climate control system (e.g., an air conditioning or refrigeration system), a brake system, a hydraulic system, or a service device for servicing a climate control system. The purge fitting allows air that may be trapped in the pressurized system to be vented by depressing a purge actuator, such as a purge button attached to the fitting. The air can be vented from an opening adjacent to the actuator or other orifice. By purging air directly from the system, the amount of air introduced into the system during servicing can be minimized. The invention also features a coupling member that can be compact in size.

Abstract: A breakaway coupler for coupling upstream and downstream hose includes one or more locking balls carried by a downstream coupling member. An upstream flapper is pivotally secured with respect to an upstream housing. A pushrod is axially movable in response to engagement by the downstream coupling member. A pry recess on the downstream coupling member is spaced between the downstream housing and the upstream housing, such that a tool inserted into the pry recess is leverageable to move the downstream coupling member to unlock the breakaway coupler.

Abstract: A gas flow regulation module for use in a pressure vessel including a wall with an opening having a minimum opening diameter. The wall defines an interior space in the pressure vessel. The module includes a head portion, a neck portion, and a body portion. The body portion has a maximum diameter which is less than the minimum opening diameter, so that the body portion fits through the opening for positioning in the interior space. The gas flow regulation module includes a manual shut-off valve for controlling the flow of fluid through the module.

Abstract: A breakaway coupling for a fuel supply hose includes a male tubular valve body interfitting with or female tubular valve body and defining a fuel supply passage, and the valve bodies enclose axially moveable spring biased valve members. The valve bodies are connected by releasable connecting means which provide for moving the valve bodies from a connected position to a disconnected position in response to a substantial axial tension force on the valve bodies. The valve bodies have cooperating peripherally extending and opposing cam surfaces effective to move the valve bodies from the connected position to the disconnected position in response to relative rotation of the valve bodies and cam surfaces.

Abstract: An expansion valve 1 includes a square rod-shaped valve body 10. A first path 20 into which refrigerant is introduced, a valve chamber 22 formed near the bottom of the path, a second path 24 for refrigerant heading toward an evaporator and a third path 26 for refrigerant returning from the evaporator are provided to the valve body 10. A valve member 30 provided inside the valve chamber is operated by a power element 70 via an actuating rod 60. In order to assemble the expansion valve, an assembled orifice member 40 and an assembled guide member 100 are press-fitted into an opening provided to the valve body 10.

Abstract: A female or male coupler of a pipe coupling comprises a valve which is located in a fluid passage and is axially movable therein. The valve has a valve head which is provided with a sealing ring to be engaged with and disengaged from a valve seat formed on a wall surface defining the fluid passage of the coupler. The sealing ring is installed in an annular groove formed in the valve head. The bottom, or vicinity thereof, of the annular groove, which is isolated from the outside or the fluid passage by the sealing ring, is fluidly communicated with the exterior surface of the valve via a communication passage formed in the valve. As a result, even if a sudden large decrease in pressure is generated in the fluid passage, a pressure in the bottom, or the vicinity thereof, of the annular groove equalizes with the pressure in the fluid passage.

Abstract: A coupling assembly is provided that includes a first coupling member removably securable in an apparatus having a port that includes a receiving groove, a retaining surface and a resilient locking member receivable in the receiving groove. The first coupling member includes a body extending along an axis from a leading portion configured for receipt within the port of the apparatus to a trailing portion configured to releasably connect the first coupling member to a second coupling member. The body includes a rib having a ramp tapering outwardly in a direction way from the axis and a shoulder tapering inwardly toward the axis. The coupling member and port are sized such that upon insertion of the first coupling member into the port, the resilient locking member travels up the ramp and then contracts becoming trapped between the shoulder and the retaining surface to secure the first coupling member to the apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus for adding fluid to a closed system can be connected to a service port of the system. The fluid can be added to the system by actuating valves on the system and on the fluid supply. The apparatus facilitates clean addition of the fluid to the system. The system can be a climate control system.

Abstract: A tool assembly for connection to a charging inlet tube of a fluid receiving system, and for evacuating and dispensing a charging fluid to the fluid receiving system. The tool assembly includes a tool housing having an upper and a lower housing half and including a plurality of internal valve components. The internal valve components are assembled in sliding engagement with each other within the tool housing and are held in assembled engagement by assembly of the upper and lower housing halves together whereby the tool assembly may be quickly disassembled and assembled for replacement of components. Fluid flow through the tool assembly is directed by an inner body positioned between the upper and lower housing halves, and vacuum and fluid charging is controlled by a vacuum control poppet and fluid control poppet, respectively, which poppets are longitudinally moveable relative to the inner body and to each other.

Abstract: An apparatus for adding fluid to a closed system can be connected to a service port of the system. The fluid can be added to the system by actuating valves on the system and on the fluid supply. The apparatus facilitates clean addition of the fluid to the system. The system can be a climate control system.

Abstract: An apparatus for adding fluid to a closed system can be connected to a service port of the system. The fluid can be added to the system by actuating valves on the system and on the fluid supply. The apparatus facilitates clean addition of the fluid to the system. The system can be a climate control system.

Abstract: A tool assembly for connection to a charging inlet tube of a fluid receiving system, and for evacuating and dispensing a charging fluid to the fluid receiving system. The tool assembly includes a tool housing having an upper and a lower housing half and including a plurality of internal valve components. The internal valve components are assembled in sliding engagement with each other within the tool housing and are held in assembled engagement by assembly of the upper and lower housing halves together whereby the tool assembly may be quickly disassembled and assembled for replacement of components. Fluid flow through the tool assembly is directed by an inner body positioned between the upper and lower housing halves, and vacuum and fluid charging is controlled by a vacuum control poppet and fluid control poppet, respectively, which poppets are longitudinally moveable relative to the inner body and to each other.

Abstract: A quick disconnect female coupler comprises, inter alia, a wiper seal retained in a radially opening annular groove and including at its rear side an annular recess that allows rearward rolling of the wiper seal in the annular groove when the wiper seal is subjected to a surge of high pressure fluid from the main cavity to the back side of the piston, whereby the wiper seal moves out of the way of the high pressure fluid surge to avoid being forced out of the annular groove; a tubular spacer in the female housing bore the forms therewith an outer flow passage and which serves as a guide for an axially movable valve body, the spacer having an annular land and a rear end post press-fitted in the housing bore and a housing counterbore, respectively, for retaining and aligning the spacer in the housing; a poppet valve provided with orifices in an angled shoulder thereof for avoiding interference with flow previously caused by coil springs used to bias the poppet valve; and an annular protection shield which perfo

Abstract: A fluid line connector assembly includes a first part defining a fluid channel; and a second part including an outer body and a member mounted for adjusting movement relative to the outer body in a direction normal to an axis of engagement in response to relative motion of the first part and the second part when the first part and the second part are connected, the member defining a fluid channel within the body. The first and second parts together define the axis of engagement along which the first and second parts are releasably connectable, the fluid channel of the first part being adapted to connect to the fluid channel of the second part, and, when the first and second parts are connected, the fluid channel of the second part remains in fluid flow connection with the fluid channel of the first part during adjusting movement of the member relative to the outer body of the second part.

Abstract: A non-spill, multi-line fluid connector includes a first part and a second part removably connected to the first part. Each of the first and second parts includes a plurality of fluid channels, each of which connects to a corresponding fluid channel of the other part without fluid spillage. The fluid channels in each part can be arranged concentrically, which enables the parts to be rotated relative to each other while maintaining the fluid connections. One part can be incorporated into a latch pin of a tool coupler, and the other part can be incorporated into a latch bracket attached to a hydraulically operated tool, wherein the latch bracket receives the latch pin to lock the tool to the tool coupler and to establish one or more hydraulic connections to the hydraulic tool. A locking assembly secures together the first part and the second part when fluid pressure is applied.

Abstract: A coupling device for transferring fluid pressure from a first coupling element to a second coupling element is disclosed, wherein both coupling elements have end faces facing each other which can be moved against each other. Each coupling element comprises a cavity that runs into an opening at the end face and which may be coupled with the cavity of the other coupling element for transferring fluid. In each cavity, a piston is guided movably in axial direction, wherein both cavities have sealing surfaces facing toward the other coupling element that communicate with the opening of the end face and against which the respective piston can be moved with a counter surface for sealing. Each of both pistons is biased toward the other piston by a spring into a sealing position in which the piston rests with its counter surface against the sealing surface.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for servicing a pressurized system is described. A purge fitting can be used to vent the pressurized system. Venting can release a gas, such as air, from the system. The pressurized system can be a climate control system (e.g., an air conditioning or refrigeration system), a brake system, a hydraulic system, or a service device for servicing a climate control system. The purge fitting allows air that may be trapped in the pressurized system to be vented by depressing a purge actuator, such as a purge button attached to the fitting. The air can be vented from an opening adjacent to the actuator or other orifice. By purging air directly from the system, the amount of air introduced into the system during servicing can be minimized. The invention also features a coupling member that can be compact in size.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fluid fitting coupling system. This system has first and second fluid assemblies, and first and second rotationally engagable axial retainers. The first and second fluid assemblies each have a fluid fitting body, a central axis, a fluid passageway, a mating component for rotation, and a movable sealing apparatus. While the first and second rotationally engagable axial retainers each have an opening for a fluid to traverse there through. The fluid fitting coupling system operates when the second rotationally engagable axial retainer engages and rotates, in a first direction, the first rotationally engagable axial retainer. In response, the first and second mating components rotate the respective first and second fluid fitting in a direction opposite the first direction so the movable sealing apparatuses are spaced a distance from the respective openings.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fluid fitting coupling system. This system has first and second fluid assemblies, and first and second rotationally engagable axial retainers. The first and second fluid assemblies each have a fluid fitting body, a central axis, a fluid passageway, a mating component for rotation, and a movable sealing apparatus. While the first and second rotationally engagable axial retainers each have an opening for a fluid to traverse there through. The fluid fitting coupling system operates when the second rotationally engagable axial retainer engages and rotates, in a first direction, the first rotationally engagable axial retainer. In response, the first and second mating components rotate the respective first and second fluid fitting in a direction opposite the first direction so the movable sealing apparatuses are spaced a distance from the respective openings.

Abstract: A connector 20 comprises a plug 21 fitted to an opening 2 formed in a container 1, and a socket 22 which is connected to the plug 21. The plug 21 comprises a bracket section 3 which is fitted into the opening 2 of the container 1, and a plug section 23 which is screwed into a threaded aperture 4 formed in the bracket section 3. An annular locking ring 63 formed with lugs 66 on the outer periphery is integrally but removably fitted to the plug section 23 which is threadedly attached to the threaded aperture 4. A plurality of engaging ribs 67 are formed on the inner peripheral face of the bracket section 3 for preventing rotation of the plug section 23 by engaging with the lugs 66 of the locking ring 63 which is fitted to the plug section 23. As a result, loosening from the threaded aperture 4 of the reusable plug section 23 which is removable by threading into the threaded aperture 4 of the bracket section 3, is prevented so that leaking of the liquid inside the container 1 from a loosened part is prevented.

Abstract: A multi-line fluid connector has a pin and a receptacle, each including a plurality of fluid channels, and a fluid connector make-before-break connections between the fluid channels of the pin and corresponding fluid channels of the receptacle when the pin is moved into engagement with the receptacle.

Abstract: A coupling device for transferring fluid pressure from a first coupling element to a second coupling element is disclosed, wherein both coupling elements have end faces facing each other which can be moved against each other. Each coupling element comprises a cavity that runs into an opening at the end face and which may be coupled with the cavity of the other coupling element for transferring fluid. In each cavity, a piston is guided movably in axial direction, wherein both cavities have sealing surfaces facing toward the other coupling element that communicate with the opening of the end face and against which the respective piston can be moved with a counter surface for sealing. Each of both pistons is biased toward the other piston by a spring into a sealing position in which the piston rests with its counter surface against the sealing surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure fuel servicing nozzle for mating with a standardized aircraft fueling adapter having an adapter valve biased in a closed position to prevent fuel flow. The fuel nozzle includes a nozzle body and a collar assembly coupled to the nozzle body. Fuel flow is prevented when the nozzle valve is in a fully retracted position and fuel flow is allowed when the nozzle valve is extended and when the nozzle valve pushes the adapter valve in a downstream direction. A bias member maintains the nozzle valve in fully open position when intimate contact between the valves is disrupted, such as when fuel flow forces the adapter valve further in the downstream direction. The fuel nozzle further includes a collar assembly rotatably coupled to the nozzle body such that the fuel nozzle is secured to the fueling adapter by engaging the fuel nozzle onto the fueling adapter and rotating the collar assembly about the nozzle body and fueling adapter.

Abstract: A volume compensator has a body with an axial chamber containing a piston assembly that is biased to one side by a spring. The compensator is coaxially mounted with a female coupler to a protective cover for a hydraulic interface plate. The female coupler has an axial bore containing a poppet assembly with an axial bleed port that extends into a receptacle on the end of the female coupler. The receptacle receives a male coupler on the interface plate. The male coupler contains a poppet assembly with a solid poppet that seals in high pressure hydraulic fluid. When the cover is secured to the interface plate, the male coupler is inserted into the receptacle and a small amount of sea water is trapped in between. The trapped sea water is forced through the bleed port and female coupler, and into the compensator where it displaces the piston and spring in the compensator. When the tips of poppets engage, high pressure hydraulic fluid is released into the female coupler and compensator where it is retained.

Abstract: A coupling half comprising: a body; a principal valve seating against the body and unseating therefrom; a relief valve seating against the principal valve and unseating therefrom; and, a flush face sliding sleeve valve seating against the body and unseating therefrom is disclosed. When the flush face sliding sleeve valve unseats from the body it travels toward the relief valve and engages the relief valve unseating the relief valve from the principal valve permitting flow by the relief valve and enabling the principal valve to unseat from the body. The relief valve and the principal valve define an annulus therebetween. The principal valve includes a passageway for relieving pressure by the relief valve. As the relief valve unseats from the principal valve, flow is permitted to the annulus defined by the relief valve and the principal valve and through the passageway in the principal valve and to a reservoir generally defined by the principal valve and the body.

Abstract: A multi-line, rotatable fluid connector assembly includes a first part removably and rotatably connectable to a second part. Each of the first and second parts includes a plurality of fluid channels. Each of the plurality of fluid channels connects to a corresponding fluid channel of the other of the first and second parts.

Abstract: A dispensing system for containing and dispensing powders, such as toner and developers, includes a dispensing container having an outlet and a chamber that contains powder. A fluidizing system introduces a gas into the chamber to increase the fluidity of the powder. The dispensing system includes a valve having a first portion attached to the dispensing container, and a second portion that attaches to a receiving container that receives the powder dispensed from the dispensing container. The valve is operable to dispense the powder from the dispensing container to the receiving container. The fluidizing system includes a porous member in the chamber and a gas source that flows a gas into the chamber through the porous member to fluidize the powder and enhance dispensing of the powder.

Abstract: A fluid line connector assembly includes a first part defining a fluid channel; and a second part including an outer body and a member mounted for adjusting movement relative to the outer body in a direction normal to an axis of engagement in response to relative motion of the first part and the second part when the first part and the second part are connected, the member defining a fluid channel within the body. The first and second parts together define the axis of engagement along which the first and second parts are releasably connectable, the fluid channel of the first part being adapted to connect to the fluid channel of the second part, and, when the first and second parts are connected, the fluid channel of the second part remains in fluid flow connection with the fluid channel of the first part during adjusting movement of the member relative to the outer body of the second part.

Abstract: An undersea hydraulic coupling member is disclosed having a valve actuator extending through the probe section and the leading face, and having angled flow ports in the probe section which help keep the hydraulic system clear of debris when the coupling members are disconnected subsea.

Abstract: A coupling includes a male half and a female half, where the female half has a fitting rigidly fixed to a stationary member such as an agricultural tractor. The male half can be coupled within the female half. When the male and female halves are coupled together, a valve assembly in the female half allows fluid flow through the coupling. When the male half is pulled out of the female half, the male half automatically disconnects from the female half. When the male half is removed, the valve assembly closes to prevent fluid flow through the coupling. The male half also automatically disconnects when the fluid pressure in the fluid system increases above a predetermined amount. In either case, a coupler body within the fitting moves against a centering spring to allow the male half to be removed from the female half. The selection of an appropriate centering spring determines the breakaway and overpressure release force.

Abstract: There is described herein an apparatus for charging a fluid line through a coupler such as a penetrator. The apparatus comprises a body formed from a sidewall defining a bore positioned along the longitudinal axis and extending therethrough. The first end of the body forms a substantially flat face. There is a stem positioned within the bore of the body and being movably mounted in the body for movement from a first position to a second position with respect to the body. There is a valve means attached to the apparatus for filling the body with hydraulic fluid. The substantially flat face of the body is fastened to a coupler. There is also an adjustment means attached to the stem for adjusting the position of the stem within the body. A method for charging a downhole hydraulic system is also described. There is also a method for installing a tubing hanger having a production string depending therefrom in a subsea wellhead while maintaining a hydraulically actuated downhole valve in an open position.

Abstract: A manually-operated valve is provided in series with an electromagnetically-operated valve and the manually-operated valve is provided with a proximity detector connected to the electronic controller whereby a switch in the manually-operated valve, in one position of the single control lever therefor, corresponding to about 50% of maximum supply rate, is operated to activate the proximity sensor and enable the water flow to be controlled by an object within its detection range. Removal of the object, e.g. the hand of the user from the range, will shut off the water through the manually-operated valve. Outside the position of the lever at which the switch is operated, the proximity detector is ineffective and control is effected exclusively by swinging the lever.

Abstract: A non-spill, multi-line fluid connector includes a first part and a second part adapted to be removably connected to the first part. Each of the first part and the second part includes a plurality of fluid channels that each connect to a corresponding fluid channel of the other part without fluid spillage. The fluid channels in each part can be arranged concentrically, which enables the parts to be rotated relative to each other while maintaining the fluid connections. One part can be incorporated into a latch pin of a tool coupler, and the other part can be incorporated into a latch bracket attached to a hydraulically operated tool, wherein the latch bracket receives the latch pin to lock the tool to the tool coupler and to establish one or more hydraulic connections to the hydraulic tool.

Abstract: A low emission fluid disconnect is provided along a flexible flow line for transmitting fluid from the transport to a bulkhead. The disconnect includes a ball valve including a ball rotated between the opened and the closed positions about a stem axis. The disconnect also includes union housing and a female body for threaded engagement with the ball valve. A poppet sleeve is linearly moveable within the union housing between the opened and closed positions, and has an end surface substantially conforming to an exterior surface of the ball. The poppet member is guided when moving between the opened and closed positions. A very low volume of fluid is released when the union housing is disconnected from the ball valve.

Abstract: A latch bracket for attachment to a hydraulically operated tool having a hydraulic mechanism, the latch bracket includes a first fluid channel extending therethrough, with a first port coupled to the first fluid channel for coupling the first fluid channel to the hydraulic mechanism. The latch bracket receives a male latch pin on a tool coupler to lock the tool to the tool coupler and to couple the first fluid channel to a source of hydraulic pressure through the latch pin.

Abstract: A latch member for a tool coupler engages with a latch receptacle on a tool to lock the tool to the tool coupler. The latch member includes a first fluid channel extending through the latch member to provide a first fluid connection to the tool through the latch receptacle.

Abstract: An undersea hydraulic coupling having a stepped internal bore dimensioned to increase the flow rate through the coupling is disclosed. The coupling allows an increased flow rate without increasing the size or weight of the coupling, by positioning the poppet valve in the body section, rather than in the probe section, of the male coupling member.

Abstract: An undersea hydraulic coupling is pressure balanced to reduce forces tending to urge the coupling members apart during coupling or uncoupling. A seal retainer having an L-shaped fluid passage is used to provide fluid communication between the radial fluid passage in the male member and the longitudinal fluid passage in the female member of the coupling. The seal retainer holds one or more radial seals in the female member upon disengagement of the male coupling member.

Abstract: A non-spill, multi-line fluid connector includes a first part and a second part adapted to be removably connected to the first part. Each of the first part and the second part includes a plurality of fluid channels that each connect to a corresponding fluid channel of the other part without fluid spillage. The fluid channels in each part can be arranged concentrically, which enables the parts to be rotated relative to each other while maintaining the fluid connections. One part can be incorporated into a latch pin of a tool coupler, and the other part can be incorporated into a latch bracket attached to a hydraulically operated tool, wherein the latch bracket receives the latch pin to lock the tool to the tool coupler and to establish one or more hydraulic connections to the hydraulic tool.

Abstract: A coupler is provided which is mountable to a fitting of a breakaway coupling to facilitate assembly and disassembly of the coupling. The coupling has a first fitting and a second fitting which are held together by a ball in the first fitting which is received in a detent in the second fitting. The second fitting has an outer sleeve on which the detent is formed, and an inner sleeve slideable in the outer sleeve. A latch ring on the inner sleeve is alignable with the groove. A spring biases the inner sleeve and latch ring into a locking position in which the detent balls are urged into engagement with the detent to hold the two fittings together. The coupler includes an open ended housing having a side wall and an end wall. A plate, securable to the second fitting inner sleeve, is received in the coupler housing for axial movement. A cam on an outer surface of the housing end wall is connected to the plate by a rod.

Abstract: An undersea hydraulic coupling having a radial pressure-energized seal with a dovetail interfit is disclosed. The seal has a pair of flexible sealing surfaces for sealing with the male and female coupling members, and a cavity therebetween that is exposed to fluid pressure in the coupling. The outer circumference of the seal has a dovetail interfit between inclined shoulders in the female member bore and on a seal retainer that holds the seal in the bore.

Abstract: This invention relates to a circuit breaker for an installation handling pressurized fluid comprising an internal valve, at least one joint of substanially toroidal shape being disposed in an accommodating housing around said valve and/or a member for maneuvering the valve, characterized in that the housing is connected, via at least one fluid-circulation channel, to a counter-pressure zone formed downstream of the joint around the valve or the maneuvering member. During a transitory phase of opening of the valve, a preferential flow circuit of the fluid is arranged between the housing and the counter-pressure zone through the channel. Thanks to the counter-pressure exerted on the seal, the latter does risk being dislocated with respect to its housing.

Abstract: A low emission fluid disconnect 10 is provided along a flexible flow line 12 for transmitting fluid from the transport 16 to a bulkhead 14. The disconnect includes a ball valve 32 including a ball 31 rotated between the opened and the closed positions about a stem axis. The disconnect also includes union housing 64 and a female body 58 for threaded engagement with the ball valve. A poppet sleeve 82 is linearly moveable within the union housing between the opened and closed positions, and has an end surface 104 substantially conforming to an exterior surface of the ball. The poppet member is guided when moving between the opened and closed positions. A very low volume of fluid is released when the union housing is disconnected from the ball valve.

Abstract: A dry disconnect coupling for connecting one fluid conduit to another fluid conduit to form a continuous flow path, the coupling including a receptacle and a coupler, each being secured to a respective conduit or container. The receptacle and the coupler are secured and locked together to provide a connection for transfer of fluids. A poppet valve is provided and seated in each of the receptacle and the coupler for sealing a respective flow passageway therein when the coupling is uncoupled. The receptacle poppet valve and the coupler poppet valve can be unseated to permit flow of fluid through the coupling when the coupling is coupled and locked. The poppet valve of the receptacle has resilient annular seal member in its poppet sealing surface.

Abstract: A chemical fluid valve transfer (e.g., load/unload) assembly is formed from a male valve assembly and a female valve assembly. The male valve assembly is fitted with a male connector which houses a chamber that is connected to a flush inlet line, and a flush outlet line, and a chemical transport line. The female valve assembly is fitted with a female connector which mates with the male valve assembly male connector for interconnecting the male valve and female valve assemblies, and fitted with a chemical transport line. Another aspect of the present invention is a method for transferring a chemical fluid between a tanker fitted with a female coupler and a fill/unload station fitted with a male coupler and hose assembly. This method involves the connecting of the tanker hose and the fill station hose with the valve assembly described above.

Abstract: A coupling that is useable on farm implements is disclosed. A metal to metal vent valve is employed in the female half of the coupling which constantly vents the supply port to the vent port when the female half is disconnected or partially disconnected from the male half. Steps in the bore of the female body permit easier disconnection because the ball valve is not depressed thus lowering disconnection faces. When the male half is being coupled with the female half the female half is vented thus making coupling easy.

Abstract: A coupling having male and female halves is disclosed. Typically the female half is under pressure. The female half may be mounted to an implement and when coupled to a male coupling on the tractor. It supplies hydraulic fluid to the driven device. The female half has three valves: a main valve, a relief valve and a sliding sleeve valve. The female half, when coupled, opens the sliding sleeve valve first followed by the opening of the relief valve which is followed by the opening of the main valve. The relief valve is designed to reduce pressure behind the main valve so as to permit easy coupling under pressure when the female half is under pressure. During the uncoupling process, the main valve closes first followed by the closure of the relief valve which is followed by the closure of the sliding sleeve valve. The relief valve is a ball and seats against an elastomeric seal mounted in the back side of the main valve. A push pin having flat edges operates the relief valve.