Abstract: A regulator is adapted to connect to a gas cylinder, particularly at a location upstream of a cylinder valve, and the regulator may include at least one of a filling slide component, oscillation damper, charge port, and a reset assembly. The regulator includes a body enclosing a cavity, and an inlet passage configured to attach to an associated gas cylinder and an outlet passage configured to attach to an associated cylinder valve, the inlet and outlet passages in selective fluid communication with one another. A flexible diaphragm/bellows is interposed between the inlet and outlet passages. A poppet assembly is located between the inlet and outlet passages that selectively seals with a poppet seat to regulate fluid flow between the inlet and outlet passages.

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 vertical take-off and/or landing aircraft comprising: a fuselage having a longitudinal axis; a pair of semi-wings protruding from the fuselage in a transversal direction with respect to the longitudinal axis; a pair of a predetermined breaking areas of the semi-wings defining respective preferred rupture sections at which the respective semi-wings are designed to break, during operation, in a controlled way moving along a preferred collapse trajectory in the event of impact; and at least one fluidic line configured to convey at least one service fluid from and/or towards at least one said semi-wing and crossing at least one of said preferred rupture sections; the aircraft comprises a self-sealing coupling movable between a first configuration in which it enables the flow of said service fluid from and/or towards the semi-wing, and a second configuration in which it prevents the above-mentioned flow and the spilling of the service fluid from the fluidic line; the self-sealing coupling is movable from the fir

Abstract: A first tubular and a second tubular define a fluid passage. A feather is positioned within the first tubular. The feather is configured to axially translate towards the second tubular and pivot towards a center of the first tubular. The feather includes a hinge on a pivoting end. A first end of a spring is coupled to the feather and a second end of the spring is coupled to the first tubular. The spring is loaded to actuate a movement of the feather between an open position and a closed position. A trigger is positioned between the first tubular and the second tubular to provide an interference with the feather. The interference retains the feather in the open position when the first tubular and second tubular are coupled.

Abstract: A pressure relief valve assembly is disclosed. The pressure relief valve assembly comprises an inlet manifold, a first pressure relief valve, a second pressure relief valve, and an outlet manifold. The first pressure relief valve is connected to and in fluid communication with the inlet manifold. The second pressure relief valve is connected to and in fluid communication with the inlet manifold and parallel to the first pressure relief valve. The outlet manifold is connected to and in fluid communication with the first pressure relief valve and the second pressure relief valve.

Abstract: A hydrant includes: a hydrant body defining a hydrant inner cavity, the hydrant configured to couple to and be in fluid communication with a fluid distribution system including a fluid therein under pressure; and a break check valve coupled to the hydrant body, the valve including: a valve body defining a valve inner cavity, the hydrant inner cavity defining a valve bore in fluid communication with the fluid during normal operation of the hydrant; a valve member configured to rotate from an open position to a closed position of the valve; and an arm in contact with the hydrant and configured to prevent movement of the valve member when the hydrant is coupled to the valve, the valve defining a hole separate from the valve bore and in fluid communication with each of the hydrant inner cavity and the valve inner cavity.

Abstract: A first tubular and a second tubular define a fluid passage. A feather is positioned within the first tubular. The feather is configured to axially translate towards the second tubular and pivot towards a center of the first tubular. The feather includes a hinge on a pivoting end. A first end of a spring is coupled to the feather and a second end of the spring is coupled to the first tubular. The spring is loaded to actuate a movement of the feather between an open position and a closed position. A trigger is positioned between the first tubular and the second tubular to provide an interference with the feather. The interference retains the feather in the open position when the first tubular and second tubular are coupled.

Abstract: A fluid transfer hub has a first vessel closure, a second vessel closure, a gasket arranged between the first vessel closure and the second vessel closure, and a clamp at least partially surrounding the first vessel closure, the second vessel closure, and the gasket. The first vessel closure has a first body, one or more apertures extending axially through the first body, one or more first inserts extending axially through the one or more apertures, and a cast seal disposed within the first body and surrounding each first insert. The second vessel closure has a second body, one or more apertures extending axially through the second body, one or more second inserts extending axially through the one or more apertures, and a cast seal disposed within the second body and surrounding each second insert.

Abstract: A prerotation basin for use in a sump pit or wet well includes a basin body having an upstanding exterior wall, an interior concavity for placement of a pump inlet therein, and a fluid entry channel formed in the basin body defined by a discontinuity in the upstanding exterior wall, where the fluid entry channel has a channel floor, the threshold of which is at an elevation that is equal to or lower than the elevation of the bottom surface of the interior concavity. The prerotation basin thereby provides a channel floor that slopes upwardly toward the bottom surface of the interior concavity to provide better solids entrainment in fluid being processed from the sump pit or wet well, and to provide self-flushing of the basin.

Abstract: A flexible fuel bladder assembly for an aircraft includes a flexible fuel bladder positioned at an airframe and having an opening to allow a flow of fuel into and/or out of the fuel bladder. A breakaway valve is operably connected to the fuel bladder at the opening to control a flow of fuel therethrough. A non-contacting or loose fitting reaction feature is affixed to the airframe and is interactive with the breakaway valve such that movement of the breakaway valve relative to the reaction feature results in breakage of a valve body of the breakaway valve and closure of the breakaway valve to prevent flow of fuel therethrough while also allowing for a second reaction mode to cause breakage of a valve body should the connecting hose be pulled relative to the breakaway valve.

Abstract: A joint for a signpost having a first segment and a second segment is provided. The joint includes a first cap for the first segment, a second cap for the second segment, and a multi-directional hinge coupleable between the first cap and the second cap. The hinge is pivotable to facilitate lateral movement of the first cap relative to the second cap.

Abstract: An improved burst disc assembly for use in pressure relief conduits for high vacuum and ultra-high vacuum containment vessels, the assembly having a body with inlet and outlet openings connected by an internal passage, a burst disc disposed within the internal passage and connected therein to hermetically isolate the inlet and outlet openings. The assembly further has a mounting structure connected to the body and outwardly extending therefrom that may be clamped between adjacent faces of a pair of metal seal flanges provided in the relief conduit to secure the assembly in position and hermetically seal the assembly in the conduit in a manner prohibit the passage of gas molecules from the surrounding environment into the containment vessel through the relief conduit. The mounting structure is formed from a soft metal material having substantially lower hardness value than that of the metal seal flange faces to enable adequate sealing.

Abstract: A BOP booster assembly is provided for use with BOPs that utilize hydraulic actuators mounted in BOP end caps to open the BOP for replacement of the shearing members. The booster assembly has three main components comprising a booster housing, piston, and end plate. An extension in the booster housing is sufficiently long to position the booster hydraulic cylinder axially outside of the ends of the bonnet end caps of the BOP with respect to the wellbore. The booster piston is equal in diameter or larger than the operating piston of the BOP. The operating pistons and booster pistons move simultaneously, in sync, and the same distance for closing and cutting. In one embodiment, an internal hydraulic line is provided in the booster cylinder wall.

Abstract: A fluid supply package comprising a pressure-regulated fluid storage and dispensing vessel, a valve head adapted for dispensing of fluid from the vessel, and an anti-pressure spike assembly adapted to combat pressure spiking in flow of fluid at inception of fluid dispensing.

Abstract: A valve including a valve body having an area of weakness along which the valve body is predisposed to break. The valve further includes a closure valve positioned in the valve body, wherein the valve body includes a chamber configured to retain fluid therein to thereby maintain the closure valve in an open position. The valve is configured such when at least part of the valve body is sufficiently displaced or broken along the area of weakness at least part of the fluid in the chamber escapes the chamber, thereby causing or enabling the closure valve to move to a closed position.

Abstract: A pressurized storage tank arrangement having at least two pressurized storage tanks, the at least two pressurized storage tanks being configured for connection to one another in a fluid-conducting manner via a connecting device. The at least two pressurized storage tanks are configured for connection to the connecting device in a fluid-conducting manner at a first and a second connecting section.

Abstract: A closure device for a container of compressed gas, particularly a capsule having a water capacity in the range of 5 to 100 ml, comprises a shut-off valve 122 and a pressure-reducing valve 120, particularly a pressure regulating valve. The shut-off valve 122 is on the lower pressure side of the pressure-reducing valve 120. The closure device may also comprise a fill valve 118 to enable the container to be recharged with gas.

Abstract: A conduit protection system, comprising: a conduit for carrying a fluid; a sealed vessel surrounding the conduit along a protected zone of the conduit; and a valve moveable between a first position for obstructing fluid flow through the protected zone of the conduit and a second position for enabling fluid flow through the protected zone of the conduit, wherein the valve is biased to the first position, and wherein the valve is fluidically coupled to the sealed vessel such that a positive pressure within the sealed vessel is operable to move the valve to the second position against the bias. Also, a method for protecting a fluid carrying conduit.

Abstract: A control valve for connection unit for flexible pipes, comprising a plurality of sectors, (slices or petals), rotatable between a complete opening position and a complete closing position is described. The aforesaid plurality of rotatable sectors comprises at least two series of rotating sectors of different shape and dimensions disposed in an alternate way along the circumference of the connection unit. The smaller sectors can be controlled in such a way to close slower than the bigger ones. The shape and dimensions of the rotational sectors are such to consent a partial overlapping of the borders of the adjacent sectors for a better tightness between the sectors themselves.

Abstract: A device for automatic closure of control valves in separable connection units for flexible pipes is described. The device comprises, for every sector of the control valve, a slidable body operating on the valve sector to cause closing and opening rotation thereof, elastic means housed within a first chamber to activate the sliding body to cause the closing rotation of said valve sector, a braking fluid housed in a second chamber to brake the movement of said sliding body in the closing direction and fluid dynamic communication means between said chambers to permit the controlled transfer of the braking fluid from the second chamber to the first chamber during the movement of the sliding body in the closing direction. The fluid dynamic communication means comprise a passage duct with an enlarged part and a cartridge with external grooves of variable length inserted in said enlarged part.

Abstract: A fire hydrant break off valve includes an offset pivot and a lateral trigger captured between a fire hydrant and fire hydrant break off riser. When a collision breaks the break off bolts holding the fire hydrant to the hydrant break off riser, the lateral trigger is released and the valve rotates to a closed position. Force of water attempting to escape rotates the valve around the offset pivot. The edge of the valve is tapered and after rotating, the valve is pushed against a matching seat to close the valve. The match of the tapered valve against the tapered seat stops or nearly stops all flow of water from the broken hydrant.

Abstract: A marine pod breakaway connection includes a breakaway connector connecting ends of a vertical shaft in an upper housing section and a vertical shaft in a lower housing section. The breakaway connector is configured to yield or fracture to allow the vertical shafts to separate during a breakaway condition when the lower housing section separates from the upper housing section. The breakaway connection further includes disconnect fittings having upper section in the upper and lower portions in the upper and lower housing sections, respectively, the engage and open when the housing sections are assembled to allow fluid flow, and close when the housing sections are separated to substantially prevent leakage of oil from the housing sections.

Abstract: A valve assembly for use in a fuel dispensing system is provided. More particularly, a valve assembly is provided having a body defining a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, with a channel extending therebetween for a flow of fluid. The valve assembly also includes a test port extending from the valve body and defining a downstream end. The test port is in fluid communication with the channel of the valve body. Additionally, a test port valve is included positioned upstream from the downstream end of the test port.

Abstract: The present invention relates to safety mechanisms for high-pressure fluid delivery systems. Particularly, the invention relates to a breakaway device which prevents uncontrolled “whipping” of the conduit ends upon a rupture. A heat dissipating coupling, permitting operation of the conduit system at desired temperatures, is also included, as is a breakaway device provided with such a heat dissipation feature.

Abstract: A breakaway assembly including a first connector including a ball portion movably received therein and a second connector including a coupling portion. The assembly is movable between a first configuration in which the coupling portion is removably received in the ball portion and the first and second connectors together define a fluid path through which fluid may flow, and a second configuration in which the coupling portion is not received in the ball portion. The assembly is configured to move from the first configuration to the second configuration when a sufficient separation force is applied to the assembly. The assembly further includes a valve positioned in one of the first or second connectors. The valve is configured to be in an open position when the assembly is in the first configuration to allow fluid to flow therethrough, and to move to a closed position.

Abstract: An irrigation sprinkler is provided having a nozzle and a flow control device for reducing fluid flow through the sprinkler when the nozzle is removed, such as might occur due to vandalism. The flow control device is coupled to the nozzle and is moveable between a first irrigating position and a second signaling position. In the first position, the sprinkler discharges fluid for irrigation. In the second position, the sprinkler discharges a reduced amount of fluid and signals that the nozzle has been removed and should be replaced. The flow control device also allows sufficient fluid flow for flushing debris out of the sprinkler when a flush cap is mounted to the sprinkler, instead of the nozzle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to safety mechanisms for high-pressure fluid delivery systems. Particularly, the invention relates to a breakaway device which prevents uncontrolled “whipping” of the conduit ends upon a rupture. A heat dissipating coupling, permitting operation of the conduit system at desired temperatures, is also included, as is a breakaway device provided with such a heat dissipation feature.

Abstract: A housing at each end of a conduit defines a valve seat. A connector is connected to a valve body in each housing and holds the bodies away from the seats until the conduit fails, after which each body moves into contact with the corresponding seat. A compression zone between each body and the corresponding seat is sufficiently large to reduce heat generated thereat from adiabatic compression of the fluid flowing therethrough. In a variation, two heat-dissipating ribs are externally positioned on each housing adjacent the compression zone. In another variation, the connector is a generally helical spring within the conduit and sized to be in contact with an interior wall of the conduit so that the spring provides structural strength thereto. In another variation, a third housing is employed as a one-way check valve.

Abstract: A safety breakaway connector begins with a body that receives a cooperating insert providing a coaxial flow path. The body has threads, a collar leading to an extension, and a hollow interior. The insert also has threads, a collar that leads to an inner wall, and a hollow interior. The inner wall fits snugly within the extension of the body. Generally, the insert simply slides into and interconnects with the body for quick installation. Two spaced apart biased check valves remain slightly outwardly from the narrow portions of the body and insert. A guard covers the body. Upon the application of the minimum force, the insert separates from the body, and the check valves abruptly close preventing further leakage of fuel. Alternatively, a strategically located O-ring or gasket seals the various components and withstands pressure variations.

Abstract: The high-pressure output (2) of a donor container is coupled to a user system (11) by means of a main transfer tube (4) through a pilot valve (5) controllable by an auxiliary line (6) which is connected (12) to an auxiliary circuit of the system (11), extends along the main tube (15) and is fixed thereto by the reduced length thereof at several distinct points (S<SUB>i</SUB>). In such a way, the rupture or inflammable leakage of the tube (4) generates the tearing off or meting of the auxiliary line (6) in such a way that the output valve (5) is immediately closed. Said invention is particularly suitable for an inflammable gas supply to stationary plants.

Abstract: A breakaway assembly including a first connector including a ball portion movably received therein and a second connector including a coupling portion. The assembly is movable between a first configuration in which the coupling portion is removably received in the ball portion and the first and second connectors together define a fluid path through which fluid may flow, and a second configuration in which the coupling portion is not received in the ball portion. The assembly is configured to move from the first configuration to the second configuration when a sufficient separation force is applied to the assembly. The assembly further includes a valve positioned in one of the first or second connectors. The valve is configured to be in an open position when the assembly is in the first configuration to allow fluid to flow therethrough, and to move to a closed position.

Abstract: A flow control device is comprised of a body/connector, a simplified sliding cord, a sealing device, and a stopper. The body/connector connects an overhead sprinkler to a supply line by means of male threaded ends. The body/connector is comprised of a wrench connector, which is located between the two male threaded ends, a guiding tube that sits on the top side of the body/connector with the assistance of the supporting ribs. The guiding tube guides the sliding cord up and down inside the flow control device and sprinkler. The sliding cord is made from a material that is flexible enough to bend inside the supply line and strong enough to return to its original straight shape. The stopper and the sealing device are connected to each other with the sliding cord. The sealing device sits against the sealing surface of the body/connector if the sprinkler head is missing. The stopper prevents the sealing device from making contact with the body/connector during normal operational conditions.

Abstract: A double-walled shear valve that carries fuel from a branch or main fuel piping to fuel dispenser piping. The double-walled shear valve comprises a containment housing defining a shear groove on the outside circumference of the containment housing and an inner housing defining an inner housing orifice therein forming a fuel flow path. The inner housing is coupled to the containment housing, and at least partially surrounded by the containment housing, such that an interstitial space is formed separate from the fuel flow path between the containment housing and the inner housing. The double-walled shear valve further comprises a main poppet valve coupled to the inner housing that is adapted to close the fuel flow path to prevent flow of fuel.

Abstract: A high-pressure fluid conduit that conducts high-pressure fluid from a high-pressure fluid source to a high-pressure fluid container. This high-pressure fluid conduit has a safety feature that is activated when the high-pressure fluid conduit fails due to exposure to a predetermined force. The safety feature is activated by the fracture of an annular ring that is positioned at either end of the high-pressure fluid conduit and is calibrated to fracture when exposed to the predetermined force. Fracture of the annular ring closes valves at each end of the high-pressure fluid conduit, thereby stopping the flow of high-pressure fluid from the high-pressure fluid source as well as the escape of high-pressure fluid from the high-pressure fluid container.

Abstract: A vacuum-actuated shear valve coupled between piping from a storage tank and piping internal to a fuel dispenser that automatically opens and closes in response to a vacuum level. A vacuum actuator is provided to control a fuel flow valve inside the shear valve. When a sufficient vacuum level is generated to the vacuum actuator, the actuator keeps the flow path valve inside the shear valve open. When the vacuum is lost, the vacuum actuator releases the flow path valve inside the shear valve, which closes it. The vacuum actuator is coupled to a secondary containment space of a fuel-handling component that is drawn under a vacuum level by a vacuum-generating source to monitor for leaks. Thus, if a leak occurs in the monitored secondarily contained space, the shear valve is automatically closed to prevent the flow of fuel from continuing to be supplied to the source of the leak.

Abstract: A double-walled shear valve that carries fuel from a branch or main fuel piping to fuel dispenser piping. The double-walled shear valve comprises a containment housing defining a shear groove on the outside circumference of the containment housing and an inner housing defining an inner housing orifice therein forming a fuel flow path. The inner housing is coupled to the containment housing, and at least partially surrounded by the containment housing, such that an interstitial space is formed separate from the fuel flow path between the containment housing and the inner housing. The double-walled shear valve further comprises a main poppet valve coupled to the inner housing that is adapted to close the fuel flow path to prevent flow of fuel.

Abstract: A pipeline breakaway coupling (10) comprising a pair of valve housing members (12,14) fixedly attached to each other by means of one or more breakaway coupling members (16). The valve housing members (12,14) define a hollow bore (18) along which flowable material may flow and the breakaway coupling members (16) permit the valve housing members (12,14) to separate from each other when exposed to a tensile load exceeding a predetermined limit. An end cap (26) releasably connected to each valve housing member (12,14) to allow connection of the valve housing members (12,14) to respective inlet and outlet pipelines. A valve cassette (20) is releasably retained between each valve housing member (12,14) and the respective end cap (26). Each valve cassette (20) includes a valve member (22) movable between a valve open position and a valve closed position.

Abstract: A double-walled contained shear valve comprises of an inner housing forming a fuel flow path, and a containment housing surrounding the inner housing, either partially or wholly, to provide a secondary containment. An interstitial space is formed between the inner housing and the containment housing as a result, and may be placed under a vacuum or pressure level to monitor for leaks. A vacuum actuator coupled to the interstitial space automatically opens and closes the fuel flow path of the shear valve in response to the vacuum level in the interstitial space to prevent leaks to the environment. The shear valve may contain a flange for connection to internal fuel dispenser piping that either does or does not includes interstitial space orifices to couple the shear valve interstitial space to the fuel dispenser piping interstitial space to monitor the vacuum or pressure level in these interstitial spaces as one contiguous space.

Abstract: An emergency shutoff valve includes a fluid conduit having a frangible area defined therein, a valve member operatively coupled to said conduit upstream of the frangible area, an expansible chamber having the frangible area defined therein, a movable member defining at least a portion of the expansible chamber, and a linkage operatively coupled to the movable member and the valve member for shutting the valve upon movement of the movable member in response to leakage of fluid through the frangible area. A method of shutting off fuel includes defining an expansible chamber about a frangible area in the conduit, moving a member defining a portion of the expansible chamber in response to leaking fuel, and shutting off a fuel valve in response to moving the movable member.

Abstract: An emergency shutoff valve is provided that includes a housing defining a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a fluid flow passage extending therebetween. The valve includes a valve element disposed within the housing and releasably latched in an open position by a latching mechanism. An expansible member defines at least a portion of a sealed expansible chamber that is sealed at locations downstream and upstream of a weakened portion of the housing. The valve includes an access port in fluid communication with the chamber. The access port may be used to test the integrity of the expansible member. An expandable material may also be disposed in the chamber and used to shut off the valve on the occasion the housing is compromised to an extent wherein fuel can flow into the expansible chamber.

Abstract: A hydraulic compactor system includes a portable container adapted to be transported by a truck and having a chamber for receiving a waste material to be compacted. The container has a self-contained compacting ram actuated by a hydraulic cylinder, and a remote hydraulic power supply unit is connected to the hydraulic cylinder by flexible hydraulic hoses. Each of the hoses is provided with a breakaway hydraulic coupling having two sections connected by tension releasable coupling means with the sections having spring biased valves which are open when the sections are coupled together and automatically close when the sections separate due to a predetermined tension force on the hoses. Each breakaway coupling compensates for increases in hydraulic fluid pressure to prevent separation of the coupling sections when the fluid pressure increases to actuate the hydraulic compacting cylinder.

Abstract: A vacuum-actuated shear valve coupled between piping from a storage tank and piping internal to a fuel dispenser that automatically opens and closes in response to a vacuum level. A vacuum actuator is provided to control a fuel flow valve inside the shear valve. When a sufficient vacuum level is generated to the vacuum actuator, the actuator keeps the flow path valve inside the shear valve open. When the vacuum is lost, the vacuum actuator releases the flow path valve inside the shear valve, which closes it. The vacuum actuator is coupled to a secondary containment space of a fuel-handling component that is drawn under a vacuum level by a vacuum-generating source to monitor for leaks. Thus, if a leak occurs in the monitored secondarily contained space, the shear valve is automatically closed to prevent the flow of fuel from continuing to be supplied to the source of the leak.

Abstract: A relief valve is provided and may include a housing having a first inlet port and a second inlet port. An initiator may be disposed within the housing and an engagement member may be slideably disposed within the housing and may be moveable between a retracted position and an extended position under force of the initiator. The engagement member may include a first bore aligned with the first inlet port in the extended position and a second bore aligned with the second inlet port in the extended position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a safety joint (10; 100; 200) for a riser consisting of two telescoping parts that are arranged to break in the event of a predetermined axial tension load. The joint also comprises means (21, 41; 121, 141; 221, 241) for closing the passage in the joint in the event of fracture where the means are activated by means of the forces generated during the separation.

Abstract: A safety flow guide protection device comprises a body having a flow guide device through which high pressure air flows; the flow guide device coated with a protecting layer; a safety releasing section formed at a surface of the flow guide device, the flow guide device being a hollow structure; a rear side of the flow guide device being formed as a combining opening; an air grid unit being received in the flow guide device at a side opposite to the combining opening; the air grid unit having a brake air valve for controlling high pressure air. When the flow guide device is communicated, the brake air valve is not compressed by the high pressure air so that the air grid unit is opened for allowing the flowing of the high pressure air; and vice versa.

Abstract: The present invention relates to safety mechanisms for high-pressure fluid delivery systems. Particularly, the invention relates to a breakaway device which prevents uncontrolled “whipping” of the conduit ends upon a rupture. A heat dissipating coupling, permitting operation of the conduit system at desired temperatures, is also included, as is a breakaway device provided with such a heat dissipation feature.

Abstract: A flow control device can be implemented to include an riser, a control valve, a simplified retaining rod, and a ball. The riser can include multiple threaded segments, one or more predetermined breakaway points, and a predetermined length and diameter. The control valve can include a first threaded valve end for detachably connecting to the riser, a second threaded valve end for detachably connecting to a supply line, and a ball housing integrally connected to the first and second valve ends. The ball housing has a predetermined internal housing diameter. The ball is enveloped inside the ball housing, and the ball diameter is smaller than the internal housing diameter and larger than a first opening between the first valve end and the ball housing and a second opening between the second valve end and the ball housing. The retaining rod physically prevents the ball from obstructing the first opening.

Abstract: A shear valve employing a two-stage main poppet valve. The two-stage main poppet valve that can be opened with less force than normally required by prior art designs. For example, if there is pump pressure trapped on the upstream side of the two-stage main poppet valve and little or no pressure or atmospheric pressure on the downstream side, more force than can be provided may be required to open the two-stage main poppet valve to reset the shear valve after the two-stage main poppet valve is closed. The two-stage main poppet valve is designed to first begin to equalize pressure differential across the shear valve without opening a main poppet valve head from its seat inside the shear valve. Thereafter, the main poppet valve head can be opened with less force than otherwise would be required.

Abstract: A double-walled contained shear valve comprises of an inner housing forming a fuel flow path, and a containment housing surrounding the inner housing, either partially or wholly, to provide a secondary containment. An interstitial space is formed between the inner housing and the containment housing as a result, and may be placed under a vacuum or pressure level to monitor for leaks. A vacuum actuator coupled to the interstitial space automatically opens and closes the fuel flow path of the shear valve in response to the vacuum level in the interstitial space to prevent leaks to the environment. The shear valve may contain a flange for connection to internal fuel dispenser piping that either does or does not includes interstitial space orifices to couple the shear valve interstitial space to the fuel dispenser piping interstitial space to monitor the vacuum or pressure level in these interstitial spaces as one contiguous space.

Abstract: The present invention includes a valve assembly having a fluid flow passage, a piston passage, a closure element and a moveable piston. The fluid flow passage extends from an inlet port to an outlet port. The piston passage transects and is oriented non-parallel to the fluid flow passage. The closure element interrupts fluid communication between the inlet and outlet ports. The piston being moveable within the piston passage between a first and second position, the piston including a head for opening the closure element wherein movement of the piston between the first and second positions enables fluid communication between the inlet and outlet ports. The valve assembly can include an explosive actuation mechanism for rapid actuation of the piston from the first position to the second position.