Abstract: The present invention uses a flow restrictor to provide a capillary size opening that minimizes any discharge of toxic gases from compressed gas cylinders in the unlikely event of the control valve or regulator failure. The use of this arrangement to provide a flow restriction in combination with a regulator in the form of a dispensing check valve provides a virtually fail safe system for preventing hazardous discharge of fluid from a pressurized cylinder or tank. A capillary tube or other structure can provide capillary size openings that minimizes any discharge of gas in the unlikely event of a failure of the regulator. Location of the inlet to the capillary tube at the midpoint of the cylinder can also prevent the discharge of liquid from the cylinder if the control valve system fails. Limiting the accidental discharge of fluid from the cylinder to gas phase fluids greatly reduces the uncontrolled mass flow rate at which fluid can escape from the cylinder.

Abstract: A mechanical device that dynamically, through the change in velocity-caused sheer planes, effectively produces a more homogenized mixed phase flow stream downstream from a non-homogenized phase concentrated stream. The device is unique in that it does not rely on physical contact with mechanical surfaces of each phase in the stream to re-direct the phases into a re-distributed mixture. This effect is generated dynamically with the pressure differentials caused by sheer planes and dynamic recirculation zones at different velocities. This differential pressure gradient is developed by inserting a pre-designed non-aerodynamic symmetrical device in a mixed phase flow path to produce a re-circulating flow disrupting the laminar flow characteristics. The diffuser design is based on a proprietary calculation methodology based on the physical arrangement of the stream containment. This arrangement may be rectangular, conical, round, oval, multi-sided or annular in configuration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for conducting sonochemical reactions and processes using in large scales liquid medium volumes is disclosed which passes a hydrodynamic liquid flow at a velocity through a flow through channel internally containing at least one element to produce a local constriction of the hydrodynamic liquid flow. The velocity of the liquid flow in the local constriction is at least 16 m/sec. A hydrodynamic cavitation cavern is created down stream of the local constriction, thereby generating cavitation bubbles. The cavitation bubbles are shifted with the liquid flow to an outlet from the flow through channel and the static pressure of the liquid flow is increased to at least 0.85 kg/cm.sup.2. The cavitation bubbles are then collapsed in the elevated static pressure zone, thereby initiating the sonochemical reactions and processes.

Abstract: A new production efficient venturi insert for mixing powder with an air stream to the feed line of a gun outlet of a powder application system. The inventive device includes a generally cylindrical member having an inlet end and a outlet end, a generally cylindrical outer surface, and an inner surface defining a lumen. The outer surface of the member has spaced apart first and second annular grooves therearound positioned towards the outlet end of the member. The inner surface of the member has a first frusto-conical portion, a cylindrical portion, and a second frusto-conical portion. The first frusto-conical portion is positioned adjacent the inlet end of the member and tapers towards the outlet end of the member. The second frusto-conical portion is positioned adjacent the outlet end of the member tapers towards the inlet end of the member. The cylindrical portion is interposed between the first and second frusto-conical portions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for conducting sonochemical reactions and processes using in large scales liquid medium volumes is disclosed which passes a hydrodynamic liquid flow at a velocity through a flow through channel internally containing at least one element to produce a local constriction of the hydrodynamic liquid flow. The velocity of the liquid flow in the local constriction is at least 16 m/sec. A hydrodynamic cavitation cavern is created down stream of the local constriction, thereby generating cavitation bubbles. The cavitation bubbles are shifted with the liquid flow to an outlet from the flow through channel and the static pressure of the liquid flow is increased to at least 0.85 kg/cm.sup.2. The cavitation bubbles are then collapsed in the elevated static pressure zone, thereby initiating the sonochemical reactions and processes.

Abstract: Choke for connection to a fluid flow passage for controlling fluid flow through the passage in a predetermined direction. The choke has structure for attachment to the fluid passage. It also has an internal fluid flow passage, which has at least one constriction. One or more mesh filters are located in the internal fluid flow passage of the choke, upstream of the constriction, to remove debris from the fluid which would otherwise interfere with fluid flow through the orifice.

Abstract: A bubble jet fitting for use in a spa provides for a lay-length short enough to allow its installation within a six-inch dam wall. The bubble jet fitting has an outlet portion which in one use provides for solvent welding within a standard size of PVC pipe. A pipe extender has end portions similarly sized and configured to solvent weld within end portions of adjacent pipe sections which are connected through the pipe extender.

Abstract: A liquid distribution device for connection to a sewage disposal system comprising a manifold pipe having an inlet and a plurality of outlets, the inlet being oriented for connection to a source of liquid sewage effluent, and the outlets each being oriented for connection to a lead or header line in a drainfield of the system, the outlets being substantially coplanar with each other and with the manifold pipe, and an orifice in each of the outlets for controlling the flow of liquid through the outlets to the absorption lines.

Abstract: A valve assembly for controlling the flow of fluid through a conduit section having and an inlet and an outlet in which a ball valve having a through bore formed therein is rotatably mounted in the conduit section. The ball valve moves between an open position in which at least a portion of the bore registers with the inlet to permit the flow of the fluid through the ball valve, and a closed position in which fluid flow through the ball valve is prevented. An insert is disposed in the conduit section downstream of the ball valve, and a first series of passages are formed through the insert for receiving the fluid from the ball valve. At least one addition series of passages extend through the insert for receiving fluid from the first series of passages and discharging the fluid to the outlet, with the passages reducing the noise generated by the fluid flow.

Abstract: The invention provides a modular gas cooktop system comprising a gas cooktop including compartments and standardized connections for a plurality of modular gas cooking units and an adapter. The standardized connections provide the maximum gas flow rates expected for use with the modular gas cooking units and the adapter provides gas flow rates compatible with the individual gas cooking units. The adaptor automatically reduces the gas flow rate provided to a modular cooking cartridge to match the gas flow requirement of the particular cartridge. The adapter can be added to the cartridge during the manufacturing process, thereby eliminating the requirement of removing an existing orifice from the gas appliance and replacing it with a second orifice when installing the cartridge in the gas appliance. The invention further includes a method for adapting the gas flow rate available to a modular cooking cartridge in a gas appliance.

Abstract: A valve body with a diverted flow passage extending between the inlet and the outlet is provided with a closure element that is mounted between the inlet and outlet and movable between first and second lift points for regulating fluid flow through the passage. A baffle disposed in the flow passage intermediate the first and second lift points alters one or more flow characteristics of the fluid to improve the efficiency of fluid flow through the valve. In a right angle body valve, the baffle takes the form of a plate with an aperture positioned concentrically with the inlet passage and the valve closure element. A top plane surface of the baffle plate is positioned below the centerline of the outlet and is perpendicular to the centerline of the inlet. The baffle separates turbulent areas of flow in the passage so that the pressure and flow of fluid exiting the valve are more uniformly distributed over the entire outlet.

Abstract: An automotive air conditioning system orifice tube type refrigerant expansion valve is axially symmetrical, so as to be error proof at installation, and/or so as to operate in a bi directional refrigerant flow. A pair of coaxial screens surrounding each end of the orifice tube, an inner noise attenuation screen of finer mesh, and an outer particulate screen of coarser mesh, provide upstream particulate exclusion and downstream noise attenuation without the potential for reverse installation. In addition, by pass ports allow for a by pass flow should the downstream inner screen become plugged.

Abstract: A device for draining condensate from a steam system while substantially eliminating the passage of steam. The device has flanged inlet and outlet ends and includes a unitary Y-shaped body defining a fluid flow conduit, a filter device disposed within the Y-shaped body, and flanged inlet and outlet body ends configured for corresponding bolted connection with the flanged inlet and outlet ends of the steam system. The device also has an insert housing removably connected within the Y-shaped body and abutting the flanged outlet end of the steam system, and a nozzle structure removably positioned within the insert housing and having a constricted passageway in fluid communication with the fluid flow conduit. The insert housing can only be removed from the Y-shaped body by first disconnecting the Y-shaped body from the steam system, providing added safety for steam system operators.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for conducting sonochemical reactions and processes using in large scales liquid medium volumes is disclosed which passes a hydrodynamic liquid flow at a velocity through a flow through channel internally containing at least one element to produce a local constriction of the hydrodynamic liquid flow. The velocity of the liquid flow in the local constriction is at least 16 m/sec. A hydrodynamic cavitation cavern is created down stream of the local constriction, thereby generating cavitation bubbles. The cavitation bubbles are shifted with the liquid flow to an outlet from the flow through channel and the static pressure of the liquid flow is increased to at least 0.85 kg/cm.sup.2. The cavitation bubbles are then collapsed in the elevated static pressure zone, thereby initiating the sonochemical reactions and processes.

Abstract: A throttle element for installation in a fuel carrying conduit, which is embodied as a screwed in insert with a head that constitutes an annular gap in relation to a cylindrical circumference wall of the conduit and this annular gap is disposed as a filter upstream of the throttle of the throttle element.

Abstract: Plates that are perforated with two or more venturi orifices that have "C.sub.d " discharge coefficient values that are greater than 1.0. The venturi orifices to be used can be made in an infinite number of tubes that have a converging entrance, a throat, and a diverging discharge. The plates are to be used to make improved devices to be used in fluid flow streams.

Abstract: An orifice tube refrigerant expansion valve has an upstream particulate filter of novel design and a downstream expansion noise attenuation filter with a fail safe flow provision. The upstream particulate filter is a truncated cone of porous filter material that forms a thin manifold space inside the refrigerant line, forcing refrigerant flow into a small central bore of the filter and concentrically into the orifice tube. Leaving the orifice tube, the flow is forced axially end to end through a cylindrical body of noise muffling, porous material. Should the noise muffling cylinder become blocked, it shifts piston-like to open a bypass passage around its outer surface so that flow is not blocked through the line.

Abstract: A shut-off valve for pressurized fluids in particular for air cooling/heating apparatus includes at least one condenser and at least one fluid evaporator communicating with each other by a pipe at least one duct which has inside a nozzle coaxially formed with a capillary duct designed to cause rapid expansion of the fluid when it emerges from the nozzle, and a retainer securing the pipe to the valve.

Abstract: Apparatus and a process is provided for restricting that portion of the flow of water which is directed through a tube to refill the bowl of a toilet after a flush. Typically, the bowl refills before the toilet tank fills so that some water overflows the bowl and is wasted down the sewer. Accordingly, a conduit is connected to the discharge of the bowl refill tube. The conduit has a tapered bore which diminishes continuously from its inlet to its outlet. The diameter of the bore at the conduit's outlet does not permit sufficient water to discharge and refill the bowl after a flush. The conduit is formed of material which is readily cut. An objective bowl water is established. In a process of progressively trimming back the outlet of the conduit, an ever larger and larger diameter bore is exposed, increasing the amount of water discharged.

Abstract: A condensate discharge device which prevents metal ions from attaching and depositing on the condensate discharge port surface. An inlet, a condensate discharge port, and an outlet are formed in a valve casing, which valve casing includes an upper casing and a lower casing. A valve seat member having a discharge passage is screwed into the lower casing. The discharge passage includes a first orifice having a smaller opening area than the condensate discharge port, and a second orifice having a smaller opening area than the first orifice. A movable member is mounted through the second orifice. On end of the movable member rests on one side of the second orifice, and another end is located on the other side of the second orifice. Condensate flows slowly through the condensate discharge port, preventing metal ions from attaching there, and flows rapidly through the second orifice.

Abstract: A throttle device provides a large number of small flow channels generally in parallel rather than a single flow path. The throttling device, a porous cartridge within a tube, may be porous metal, packed ferrous spheres or other particles, packed fibrous material, a plurality of smaller capillaries joined together in parallel, etc. The number and size of the channels provide proper pressure drop performance of the throttle, and flow is laminar with a Reynolds number less than 2,000. Vibrations are low. With certain refrigerant components, and small openings in the porous throttle device, refrigerant flow resistance increases until all flow ceases below selected and repeatable temperature levels. Thus, a temperature-dependent, variable on to off throttle device is provided without moving parts. This self adjusting throttle device can operate in parallel with a fixed throttle device.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an off-line collection system for use with supercritical fluid extraction. The system is comprised of apparatus for collecting analyte associated with the supercritical fluid extraction. The system is additionally comprised of an orifice for controlling flow of analyte to the collecting apparatus. The orifice converts analyte at a high pressure to a lower pressure. The orifice has a high pressure side which receives said high pressure analyte, and a lower pressure side in fluidic communication with the high pressure side which receives said high pressure analyte after it has been converted to a lower pressure. The high pressure side is capable of transporting analyte thereacross without essentially any loss thereof to the low pressure side which is in fluidic communication with the collecting apparatus. The analyte experiences essentially constant pressure as it is transported across the high pressure side.

Abstract: An auxiliary exhaust system is provided for releasable attachment to internal combustion engines as are used on electrical generators of recreational vehicles or the like. The auxiliary exhaust system is easy to assemble and disassemble and directs combustion gases which have been cooled by ambient air upwardly to protect the RV occupants and near passersby. The auxiliary exhaust system provides a venturi effect with plastic stack sections which are slidably joined and which are light in weight. Shock cords stabilize the assembled auxiliary exhaust system and prevent noise transmittal from the generator and during adverse weather conditions such as high winds.

Abstract: A static mixer which is adapted for disposition in a pipe having a fluid flow direction including a circumferential flange radially inwardly extending from the internal pipe surface and in turn having at least a pair of opposed flaps extending therefrom and inclined in the direction of the fluid flow.

Abstract: A dual chamber orifice fitting comprising a first chamber maintained in fluid communication with a pipeline, a fluid flowing in the pipeline passing through the first chamber; a second chamber selectively maintained in fluid communication with the first chamber; a sealing member selectively rotatable from a first position wherein the sealing member seals the first chamber from the second chamber, and a second position wherein the sealing member permits the first chamber to be placed in fluid communication with the second chamber.

Abstract: A device for controlling or metering fluid flow in either direction through a conduit. The device comprises an elongated body having two end walls forming an internal chamber therebetween. One end wall of the device has a first metering orifice. The other end wall has one or more bypass openings. Disposed within the chamber is a free piston having a rod portion extending therefrom and disposed within the first metering orifice. The free piston and rod portion has a second metering orifice axially extending therethrough and in axial alignment with the first metering orifice. Fluid flow through the device urges piston against the end wall in the direction of fluid flow. In one position, fluid flowing into the device passes through the bypassing the opening(s) of the opposite end wall. Fluid flowing out of the device passes through the second metering orifice in the piston. Upon a flow reversal, the piston is urged against the opposite end wall.

Abstract: A method of obtaining a free disperse system in liquid which produces a controlled hydrodynamic cavitation by regulation of constriction ratio, volumetric flow rate, and degree of cavitation parameters. Selection of the parameters with regard to the properties of components of the fluid make it possible to effectively treat the components having a variety of physio-chemical characteristics. The invention further relates to the construction of a cavitation device wherein the geometry of a flow-constricting baffle body effectively increases the degree of cavitation to substantially improve the quality of an obtained free disperse system.

Abstract: A process to access a plate carrier having an orifice plate and carrier plate seal and an orifice fitting. The process includes moving the plate carrier from a pressurized orifice body lower chamber to an orifice body upper chamber. A seal ring is sealed in the upper chamber against the plate carrier to create a fluid type seal between the upper body chamber and the plate carrier. Pressure is bled off in the upper chamber to the atmospheric pressure. An entry plug threadably connected to a retainer is unscrewed and a crank removed to allow access to the orifice plate and to the carrier plate seal. The crank and entry plug are replaced and the upper chamber is repressurized. The seal ring may then be loosened from the plate carrier before returning the plate carrier to the lower body chamber.

Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided a flow conditioner for insertion into a pipe of predetermined diameter conveying a fluid flow. The conditioner comprises a plate arranged perpendicular to the flow and having apertures which are located so as to distribute the flow radially in an approximation to the flow distribution in a fully developed flow, and a plurality of vanes distributed such that the normal to each vane is perpendicular to the direction of flow.

Abstract: An orifice fitting for measuring fluid flow therethrough which can be used for either single or dual chamber fittings. The orifice fitting includes a plate carrier having an orifice plate receivable in the plate carrier. The orifice plate has a single preferred fluid flow direction. A double circular shoulder in the plate carrier includes a first shoulder and a concentric second shoulder having a larger diameter than the first shoulder. The double shoulder mates with a circular recess on the orifice plate to properly orient the plate for the preferred fluid flow direction.

Abstract: A mixing valve having a mixing passage formed by a tapered concentric reduction member for forming a venturi, a pair of baffles supporting the reducing member to form a mixing chamber where liquid from secondary inputs is metered by the venturi into an axial flow of liquid. The mixing valve is particularly adapted for use with a method of hydrating concentrated polymer and mixing in recycled polymer from an eductor. The method includes passing water through a venturi, metering a flow of neat polymer and a flow of recycled polymer from the eductor into the mixing chamber by the venturi effect.

Abstract: Difference in internal diameters of flanged fluid-flow components, such as pumps and valves, are accommodated by the present flow adapter with a much lessened space requirement. The adapter is preferably formed as a metal casting with parallel faces, and with its tapered bore, which extends from one face to the other, surrounded by a pattern of tapped holes, into which the flanges of the fluid-flow components are screwed. No nuts are used; there is no need for access to the space occupied by the adapter, between the flanges of the two fluid-flow components. Results include a much lessened installation length with only a modest loss of fluid-flow efficiency.

Abstract: A flow control device ?1! for insertion into a conduit to control the flow rate of fluid flow therethrough. The device ?1! includes two opposed dished baffle plates ?2! and ?3! defining a chamber ?4! therebetween. Each baffle plate has a generally centrally located orifice ?6! and ?7! respectively. The device ?1! is adapted for positioning substantially transverse to the longitudinal extent of the conduit by means of, for example, flanges ?10 and 11! or a pre-connected threaded sleeve ?15!, such that fluid flow along the conduit is diverted through the orifices ?6! and ?7!. Additional spaced baffle plates ?5! may be added on the downstream side to fine tune the flow rate.

Abstract: A universal insert used with a device to drain condensate from a steam system while minimizing the passage of steam. The insert includes an anchor with tapering threads that can be crushed, permitting the insert to be used with radiator steam traps having differing sizes, and of different models. Nozzle or orifice-type constricted passageways can be located within the anchor. A filter device for use with the anchor has an adjustable height.

Abstract: A baffle insert or sleeve is disclosed for the integration of the downstream pressure tap into a pressure regulation valve ("PRY") for an aircraft environmental control system ("ECS"). The purpose of this insert is to return the flow, disturbed by the pivoting disk of a butterfly valve, to a more normal distribution within the length of the valve body. This allows the PRV downstream pressure tap to be part of the valve, instead of it (along with additional plumbing) being located four more pipe diameters beyond the valve housing.

Abstract: A refrigerant expansion device for expanding refrigerant flowing within a refrigerant line from a condenser to an evaporator in a refrigeration system. The refrigerant expansion device includes a tubular restrictor having a cylindrical main portion and a tapered nozzle portion wherein the nozzle portion includes an outlet end having an orifice. A solder ring is disposed about the tapered nozzle portion and may be press fit onto the restrictor for secure engagement therewith. During the expansion device fabrication, the tubular restrictor is inserted into the refrigerant line to a predetermined position. The exterior of the refrigerant line is then heated at the predetermined position such that heat is transferred through the refrigerant line and melts the solder ring thereby brazing the restrictor to the refrigerant line at the predetermined position.

Abstract: Thin metal adaptor rings fit within elastomeric seal rings holding an orifice plate within a fitting. The thin metal rings have an inside diameter equal to the inside diameter of the pipe line and fitting. Therefore, the inside diameter is maintained without variations as previously resulted from protrusion or recess tolerances of the elastomeric seal rings. The seal ring is modified with notches to hold the thin metal adaptor rings in the desired position.

Abstract: An orifice device includes a pneumatic orifice fitting having a molded tubular plastic body with attachment ends for connecting into a pneumatic system. The body is formed of a transparent plastic and has a central enlarged hex portion for a threaded connector. A cavity is formed in one end of the body. A plastic molded orifice body has a maturing conical enlargement and is secured within the cavity by a solvent bond. The orifice body is molded of a color related to the size of the orifice and the color is visible through the body and particular the hex portion. Other forms of visible indicia may be used. The orifice body is molded with an outward projection from the enlargement for use in assembly. The projection is moved in the plane of the enlargement and cavity.

Abstract: An evaporator capable of improving heat-exchange efficiency by enhancing performance to distribute refrigerant to many refrigerant passages of a refrigerant distribution pipe from a throttle. The evaporator is capable of suppressing the occurrence of a refrigerant passing noise by the throttle while maintaining the throttle of a nozzle at a certain size as to be able to function as a throttle. The inner diameter of the throttle in the nozzle is made as large as possible. The cross-sectional center of the throttle of the nozzle is off-centered toward the upper side relative to the cross-sectional center of the refrigerant distribution pipe inserted into the inlet tank of the evaporator. The refrigerant flows out of the throttle in a mixed condition of liquid and gas, and separation of gas and liquid in the refrigerant is alleviated inside the refrigerant distribution chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed is a low flow, low Reynolds number cavitating venturi. This cavitating venturi includes an inlet for receiving a liquid at an upstream pressure and an outlet for discharging the liquid received by the inlet at a downstream pressure. The liquid passes through a converging portion having a converging sidewall which extends from said inlet, through a throat portion having a throat sidewall and a diverging diffuser portion having a diverging sidewall. The cavitating venturi provides a substantially stable liquid flow rate independent of the downstream pressure up to a downstream pressure at least as high as 80% of the upstream pressure at a Reynolds number of 60,000 or less.

Abstract: In a fuel system for motor vehicles, comprising a fuel tank, a fuel filler pipe with an opening into the tank, a first gas conduit, one end of which is positioned within the tank and whose opening determines the highest fuel level in the tank when filling the tank, and a second gas conduit which extends from an expansion space in the tank above said highest fuel level to a filter device; the improvement wherein the second gas conduit (4) includes a restriction device (9) which is so arranged that the flow resistance of the gas flow in the direction from the tank (1) to the filter device (8) is greater than in the opposite direction, and a pressure sensor (11) arranged to detect the pressure in the gas volume above the surface (N) of the fuel.

Abstract: A field installable choke tube apparatus and a method for installing the choke tube into a pulsation dampener of a compressor. The choke tube is insertable into the pulsation dampener through the nozzle of the pulsation dampener. The supporting apparatus for the choke tube is located between the choke tube and the nozzle. The supporting apparatus is movable relative to the nozzle of the pulsation dampener thereby to firmly hold the choke tube within the dampener.

Abstract: An apparatus for metering fluid flow through a pipeline in which a housing is provided for connecting to the pipeline and which defines a chamber through which fluid from said pipeline flows. A mounting surface is formed in the chamber and a carrier assembly is disposed in the chamber for defining an orifice and a second mounting surface which engages the first mounting surface to align the orifice with the pipeline.

Abstract: A metering pipe for a landfill well includes an upstream segment and a downstream segment. A coupling having an orifice plate positioned therein surroundingly engages both segments. Specifically, the segments are advanced into the coupling toward each other, on opposite sides of the orifice plate from each other. Upstream and downstream pressure ports are respectively formed through the walls of the upstream and downstream segments and the coupling adjacent the orifice plate. The difference in pressure at the ports is correlated to a flow rate through the pipe. To ensure that all gas flowing through the well also flows through the metering pipe, a compression coupling is disposed between the metering pipe and well. The compression coupling joins the metering pipe to the well and blocks gas flow past the outside of the metering pipe, while permitting the metering pipe to be selectively reciprocated relative to the well.

Abstract: Flow straightener for eliminating vortices in a gas stream through a flow tube. The flow straightener consists of a plate with a circular symmetric hole pattern, wherein the diameter of the holes is smaller than 0.1 times the diameter of the flow tube. The passage area of the holes is between 0.4 and 0.8 times the passage area of the flow tube. The diameter of the largest hole is bigger than 1.3 times the diameter of the smallest hole. The thickness of the plate is between 0.8 and 1 times the square root of the average passage area of the holes. The plate is disposed upstream in front of a turbine-wheel gas meter, which is mounted, so as to run on bearings, on a cylindrical body. In the annular gap between the cylindrical body and the flow tube, a second flow straightener is arranged consisting of a number of vanes, the ratio of the height of the vanes and the spacing between the vanes being between 0.8 and 1.

Abstract: A restrictor for limiting the volume of fluid flowing from an automotive hose into a heat exchanging device in an automotive heating or air-conditioning system is disclosed. The restrictor includes a generally cylindrical, hollow body disposed in the hose and a flow limiting washer disposed in the body. The body includes an annular wall having a stepped region of reduced cross-sectional area which receives a hose clamp therein to prevent sliding and rotation of the restrictor within the hose.

Abstract: A method and a device for reducing the noise caused by throttling a gas flow in a flow channel (1), where after the throttling part (2) there is a wider part (3). The wider part (3) following the throttling part (2) of the flow channel (1) has at least one deviation of the cross-section (D) formed by a wall protrusion (5) in a short part (1) of the channel. The cross-section of the channel wall protrusion (5) taken length-wise of the channel tapers towards the central part of the channel. In a trans- or supersonic flow the protrusion causes a straight shock wave, a so-called Mach disk, in the flow, and this disk is made to occur and to remain within a wide pressure drop ratio range.

Abstract: A velcoity diffuser having a conical configueration is secured in the interior of a conduit conducting a flow of liquid to increase the velocity and decrease the pressure of an annular layer of the liquid flow adjacent the interior surface of the conduit while decreasing the velocity and increasing the pressure of a remaining portion of the liquid flow within the annular layer. The velocity diffuser employed in a conduit upstream from a butterfly valve diffuses high velocity flow of the liquid around the periphery of the valve and reduces vibration of the butterfly valve in its open position and cavitation downstream from the valve and thereby reduces the noise heard outside the valve housing.

Abstract: An orifice fitting for measurement of fluid flow therethrough. The orifice fitting includes a plate carrier having an orifice plate and carrier plate seals. The plate carrier may be moved between an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The upper chamber includes a pair of opposed seal rings, each of which is independently tightenable against the plate carrier. At least one removable entry plug in the upper chamber allows access to the plate carrier, the plate and the seals without the necessity of interrupting or disabling fluid flow through said lower chamber.

Abstract: A gauge block assembly for use in conjunction with the refilling of high pressure gaseous oxygen cylinders. The gauge block is used in an oxygen transfill header or manifold and includes a gas transfer control unit that allows rapid evacuation of the spent oxygen cylinder but that prevents rapid refilling of the oxygen cylinder with fresh oxygen. The gas transfer control unit includes a valve assembly having a restricted orifice therethrough. During the evacuation process, the check valve opens, bypassing the restricted orifice, to allow rapid evacuation of the oxygen cylinder at a first rate of flow. During the refilling process, the check valve closes. The incoming oxygen must flow through the restricted orifice at a second rate of flow less than the first rate of flow thereby regulating the flow of oxygen.