Abstract: A solenoid plunger (36) is disposed for reciprocation in a plunger pocket that is formed by the stationary parts of a solenoid-type actuator (10). A flexible diaphragm (22) closes the plunger pocket's open mouth and is deformed by movement of a plunger (36) between an open position, in which it is displaced from a valve seat (20), and a closed position, in which it is seated on the valve seat and thereby prevents flow from a valve inlet (16) to a valve outlet (18). The diaphragm thereby isolates the plunger from the fluid thereby being controlled, but a separate, incompressible fluid fills the chamber in which the plunger reciprocates. A through-plunger passage (44, 56) provides a low-flow-resistance path for the incompressible fluid to flow into and out of the portion (52) of the plunger chamber behind the plunger as the plunger moves. This reduces actuation time and thus the energy required for an actuation.

Abstract: A solenoid-operated valve includes a bonnet, a cap member which is disposed in the bonnet, a fixed iron core which is connected to a central portion of the cap member, a movable iron core which is provided under the fixed iron core, which is displaceable under the exciting action of a coil, and which has an inclined surface having gradually contracted diameters, an annular sleeve which is disposed to surround an outer circumferential surface of the movable iron core, and a spring member which is interposed between an annular projection of the movable iron core and an annular groove of the sleeve.

Abstract: The diaphragm valve uses a metal dish-type diaphragm set to control the inflow and outflow of fluid. The metal dish-type diaphragm set is above an air flow channel to control the stem above the metal dish-type diaphragm set, and the air will be blocked by pressing the metal dish-type diaphragm to make it fit the metal valve base in the air flow channel; this non-metal valve base is fixed in the air flow channel by a fixed shrunk ring with a taper cross section, and the in-between metal diaphragm in the metal dish-type diaphragm set is annular in the center to reduce the metallic friction between metal diaphragms, to increase application times and to lower the leakage rate of the diaphragm valve.

Abstract: A metal diaphragm valve used for a semiconductor manufacturing device allowing a large amount of flow to pass therein in spite of a compact size by reducing a fluid resistance of a flow passage ranging from a valve chamber to an outflow passage through an inflow passage in a valve body, comprising the body (2) having the inflow passage (6), the valve chamber (8), and the outflow passage (7), a metal diaphragm (3), a drive means (4), and an annular groove (5), characterized in that the diameter (D) of the outflow passage (6) is made larger than the groove width (W) of the annular groove (5), and the effective sectional area of the crossing portion of the annular groove (5) with the outflow passage (6) is made larger than the cross-sectional area of the outflow passage (6).

Abstract: The disclosure pertains to a compact integrated fluid control valve useful in controlling process fluids handled as part of a semiconductor processing operation. In the wetted section of the valve, process fluids enter through one or more entrance ports and exit through an annular metallic valve seat. In the valve's drive section, a sliding cylinder, including an upper horizontal member tied to a lower horizontal member, moves up and down. The lower horizontal member presses a diaphragm against the valve seat to close the valve, and moves away from the valve seat to permit fluid flow through the valve. A spring presses at the top of the upper horizontal member of the sliding cylinder, while a controlled pneumatic pressure is applied at the bottom of the upper horizontal member. The balance between the force of the spring and the force of the pneumatic pressure determines the extent to which the valve is open.

Abstract: A microvalve and a method of forming a diaphragm stop for a microvalve. The microvalve includes a first layer and a diaphragm member to control the flow of fluid through the microvalve. The method comprises the step of forming a contoured shaped recess extending inward from a surface of the layer by using a laser to remove material in a series of areas, at successively greater depths extending inward from said surface. Preferably, the recess has a dome shape, and may be formed by a direct-write laser operated via a computer aided drawing program running on a computer. For example, CAD artwork files, comprising a set of concentric polygons approximating circles, may be generated to create the dome structure. The laser ablation depth can be controlled by modifying the offset step distance of the polygons and equating certain line widths to an equivalent laser tool definition.

Abstract: A solenoid-operated valve comprises first and second elastic ring members each of which is made of an elastic material such as rubber, which retain a peripheral edge of a diaphragm, and which are flexibly bent in accordance with displacement of the diaphragm. A pair of lip sections is formed on the first and second elastic ring members.

Abstract: Micro-valves that include a diaphragm capable of being positioned on a valve seat or removed from the valve seat. The micro-valves also include supports and a cover that restrict the motion of the diaphragm, thereby reducing the possibility of cracking. Micro-valves made by anodically bonding the diaphragm to a seat substrate and anodically bonding the cover to the diaphragm. Micro-injectors that include micro-valves. Also, methods of making the micro-valves and micro-injectors.

Abstract: Known pressure-regulating valves, in particular, from the crank housing exhaust, have a regulating membrane made from an elastomer or a plastic. Elastomers, however, have a high permeability for hydrocarbons, an unsatisfactory chemical durability relative to oil, fuel and fuel additives and poor elasticity with low temperatures. Thermoplasts do not have these disadvantages and are better suited as materials for a regulating membrane. According to the present invention, it is proposed to use a membrane made from metal, preferably stainless steel. The membrane has a corrugated or graduated form. The pressure-regulating valve of the present invention has good characteristics with reference to permeability for hydrocarbons, chemical durability and temperature dependence of the elasticity and is substantially simplified through functional integration. The membrane assumes additionally the functions of a restoring spring and a housing cover.

Abstract: A microvalve with a normally closed state includes a membrane (80), an actuation means (100) for controllable deformation of the membrane (80) as well as a valve shutter (180) deformable by the controllable deformation of the membrane (80). The valve shutter (180) at least partially opposes the membrane (80) and rests, in a first position in the normally closed state of the valve, along a sealing lip (130) arranged between the valve shutter (180) and the membrane. The sealing lip (130) is arranged such that an outlet of the valve, which outlet is in fluid communication with an interrupted section of the sealing lip (130), is sealed against an input channel (170) bordering on the valve shutter (180). In addition, the valve shutter is moldable into a second position so as to bring the outlet (140) into fluidic communication with the input channel (170) in an open state of the valve.

Abstract: A self-draining, valve for fluid flow control. Upon removal of fluid supply pressure from the valve, the valve automatically reverts to a partially open state allowing fluid in the valve to drain. The disclosed valve is particularly useful in applications where draining of fluids with bio-matter or other contaminants is desired after removal of supply pressure in order to reduce contamination buildup and/or permit thorough cleaning.

Abstract: The control valve according to the present invention has a high durability, so that the valve is not easily damaged even in case that the valve is provided in a corrosion gas current path. The valve has a construction such that a diaphragm (4) is contained in the valve body (2), which has a valve chamber (23) between the gas current in path (25) and the gas current out path (26). The diaphragm 4 is urged against an opening (252) formed in the center of the valve seat 231 in the valve chamber (23) to open and close the opening. The valve has a valve control member (5), which has a clamping member (3) to clamp the diaphragm and is made to contact to the diaphragm from outside to open and close the opening. The diaphragm has an urging member (41) made of ceramic, which is fixed to the opening (252) side of the diaphragm so that the resistance to corrosion of the diaphragm is improved.

Abstract: A valve assembly having a cap defining a first and second fluid flow passage for allowing the flow of fluid is attached to a seat member which is coupled to an actuator. A plunger having an adjustably attached diaphragm is maintained within the seat member and the actuator, and the plunger positions the diaphragm over the first and second fluid flow passage. The actuator controls the plunger and determines the retraction of the plunger to allow fluid flow and the insertion of the plunger to prevent fluid flow.

Abstract: A control element for media, for instance, a pneumatic valve or a hydraulic valve, comprising a valve body in which one or several channels are arranged, at least one moving element arranged in a channel and means for carrying out a relative movement of and/or deforming the moving element. The means are directly arranged on and/or directly act upon the moving element.

Abstract: A radial diaphragm valve includes a diaphragm having an elongated stem that is threadably or otherwise installed on an actuator piston. The elongated stem is slideably received in a bore formed in the actuator housing, and includes a circumferential recess that receives a seal. The seal provides a backup seal function separating the process fluid from the interior region of the actuator.

Abstract: A multi-use sterile access/GMP diaphragm valve housing having a valve housing block having a main flow axis. The housing having a main flow valve mounting surface formed parallel to the main flow axis. The housing having a first port and an opposing second port. The housing having a first passage extending from the first port to the main flow valve mounting surface. The housing having a second passage extending from the main flow valve mounting surface to the second port. The housing having a main flow weir between the first and second passages. The housing having first and second planar lands formed upon the valve housing block adjacent the first passage for forming a third passage through a respective one of the lands in fluid communication with the first passage. The first and second planar lands are disposed orthogonal to each other and parallel to the main flow axis.

Abstract: A seal arrangement for a vacuum valve with a valve body (1) in which is arranged a valve opening (2) having a longitudinal axis (5) and which has an inner jacket surface (6) surrounding the valve opening and forming a valve seat, and with a valve plate (3) which closes the valve opening in the closed state of the vacuum valve and which has an outer jacket surface (9) surrounding the valve plate, said inner jacket surface and said outer jacket surface being located opposite one another in the closed state of the valve, wherein the seal arrangement comprises:

Abstract: A liquid-dispensing faucet includes a mounting fitting that defines a first flow passage and that is adapted for connection to an associated container with the first flow passage in communication with an internal space of the container. The mounting fitting comprises a valve seat. A body is connected to the mounting fitting. The body defines an inlet, an outlet and a second flow passage that fluidically interconnects the inlet and the outlet. A seal member is connected to the body and is selectively movable between a first operative position and second operative position. The seal member sealingly mates with the valve seat to block the first flow passage when the seal member is in the first operative position. An actuator is operably coupled to the seal member for moving the seal member from the first operative position to the second operative position. In this manner, the valve seat is provided in the mounting fitting rather than as a part of the faucet body.

Abstract: Valve (1) with a through-going axial bore (4), a first spindle (5) axially displaceable in the bore (4), an elastic/flexible seal (10) placed at the one end surface (6) of the first spindle (5), at least two hollow connection branches (7, 8), each of which connects the valve to an outer coupling, said first spindle (5) in a first position forming a first annular sealing surface (9) between the outer surface of the seal (10) and the inner bottom (11) of the valve body which contains the outlet opening (29), and where the first spindle (5) lies coaxially inside a second axially displaceable and hollow spindle (12) lying in the bore (4), the end surface of which or parts thereof (13) form a second annular sealing surface (14) between the outer surface of the seal (10) and the inner bottom (11) of the valve body at a second position radially from the first annular sealing surface (9).

Abstract: An on-chip chemical compound dilution system for providing dilution of a chemical compound in a microfluidic application includes at least one sample well for providing a selected chemical compound to be diluted, a dilution well for providing a diluent for diluting the chemical compound, a network of channels for carrying the chemical compound and diluent, a first syringe pump for effecting dilution, a second syringe pump, a detector and a plurality of valves for selectively controlling the flow of liquid through the channels. The dilution system may be a multiple-stage dilution system for precisely mixing a plurality of chemical compounds in a diluent. The dilution system allows for accurate calibration to compensate for variations due to manufacturing, thereby providing precise dilution ratios. The dilution system further enables flushing to allow re-use of the system with another chemical compound.

Abstract: A valve assembly for a sanitary container that is used to isolate the contents of the sanitary container. The valve assembly has a valve housing that is machined from a solid piece of stainless steel. A flange radially extends from the bottom of the valve housing, thereby enabling the valve housing to be clamped to the flanged access port of a sanitary container. The valve housing forms part of two separate diaphragm valves. The diaphragm valves control flow through the valve housing along two separate and isolated pathways. Additionally, a conduit is formed vertically through the valve housing. The conduit is unobstructed and enables materials to be passed through the housing of the valve mechanism unabated. The design of the valve assembly prevents the valve assembly from harboring contaminants and enables the valve assembly to be sanitized using a traditional autoclave.

Abstract: A valve for controlling fluid flow. The valve include a support element providing a flow path, at least a portion of the flow path extending along an axis of flow through the valve. A flexible element is compressible against the support element to interrupt the flow path and restrict fluid flow through the valve. An actuating element is movable along the axis of flow to engage and deform the flexible element against the support element.

Abstract: A method of controlling fluid flow in a channel in a microfluidic flow control device by introducing fluid to the channel, with the fluid flowing in a flow direction and controllably deforming material defining the channel in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction to control fluid flow in the channel. The channel is formed between a first plate and a second plate and controllably deforming material defining the channel comprises deforming at least one of the first and second plates. Material defining the channel extends continuously between an inlet port and an outlet port. Controllably deforming material defining the channel preferably comprises deforming the first plate into contact with a seat formed in the second plate to close the channel. The seat may be formed by a ridge having a smoothly changing profile in section across the channel. The method may be operated to generate a pumping, filtering, trapping or mixing function. Apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: The “Improved hydraulic diaphragm valve, for fluid flow regulation” which constitutes the object of this Patent, contains a semi-conical deflector (2) with an open and flat upper face (3), its perimeter being an isosceles triangle and its cross section equal to that of the valve passage, the semi-cone (2) and the triangle (3) being oriented towards the intake of the fluid. The diaphragm (4) is seated on the flat section (3) pressed by the fluid contained in the chamber formed by the cover (5) and the diaphragm (4); whilst by draining the fluid from the chamber, the intake pressure lifts the diaphragm (4) off its seating. Shutting or reducing flow is produced in the upstream direction, and opening or increasing flow, downstream.

Abstract: A sanitary diaphragm valve is provided that includes a generally dome shaped diaphragm having a central boss that can be connected to or driven by a valve actuator. The diaphragm includes an outer peripheral edge and a relatively thin web portion that connects the boss to the outer edge. In one embodiment, the web portion is arcuate or dome shaped. The thinner web portion permits the diaphragm to have an extended cycle life and to permit the valve to operate at higher fluid pressures. The diaphragm may be made from a chemically resistant material and optimized to maintain high flexure.

Abstract: A pressure compensating element (8) for a control valve (3) for controlling an overflow of a medium from a first pressure space (1) into a second pressure space (2) has a diaphragm (9) separating the pressure space (1, 2) from one another. The pressure compensating element (8) compensates forces acting on a valve body (5) of the control valve (3) and generated by pressure differences in the pressure spaces (1, 2). However, an overflow of a medium from one pressure space (1) into the other pressure space (2) takes place solely in the region of the control valve (3).

Abstract: A wall structure forms a fluid flow channel and includes a deformable multi-wall area for varying a cross-section of the flow channel. The wall structure comprises a homogeneous material. The wall structure is made by sequentially applying layers of a material to one another such that in a region of the wall structure corresponding to the multi-wall area layers do not adhere to one another, to form individual walls disposed adjacent one another in the direction of the thickness of the wall structure.

Abstract: A physical protector has a bag member (10) formed of gas-barrier seal members (1,2) different in deformability, and a valve (a) by which an air passage is formed by exerting a pushing force to the seal members (1,2) to elastically deform the seal members and closed by releasing the pushing force to resume the original shape of the seal members. The physical protector is attached to physical parts such as the human trunk or limbs and inflated by operating the valve (a) to introduce air into the bag member (10), thus protecting the physical parts. Since the air can be arbitrarily introduced into or discharged from the bag member by operating the valve (a), the protector can be used repeatedly. The valve (a) is made flat and compact so as not to give the user an unpleasant feeling.

Abstract: A first displacement mechanism disposed on the axially lower side includes a first piston, a piston rod displaceable integrally with the first piston, and a diaphragm connected to the piston rod. A second displacement mechanism disposed on the axially upper side includes a second piston for moving the piston rod to slide along a through-hole. A displacement amount of the first piston and a displacement amount of the second piston are different.

Abstract: A weir-type diaphragm valve having a valve body, a flexible diaphragm and a valve stem. The valve body has an inlet end, an outlet end and an internal flow path disposed between the inlet end and the outlet end. Within the valve body is a weir disposed transverse to the flow path. Along the top edge of the weir is disposed a raised bead extending substantially along the entire length of the top edge of the weir. The flexible diaphragm is disposed above the valve seat. The diaphragm is flexible between a closed diaphragm position wherein the diaphragm is in tight abutment with the valve seat (so that the valve path is sealed closed) and an open diaphragm position wherein the diaphragm is spaced apart from the valve seat (so that the valve path is open). The valve stem and handle assembly is adapted to alternatively flex the diaphragm between the closed diaphragm position and the open diaphragm position.

Abstract: A multi-use sterile access/GMP diaphragm valve housing having a valve housing block having a main flow axis. The housing having a main flow valve mounting surface formed parallel to the main flow axis. The housing having a first port and an opposing second port. The housing having a first passage extending from the first port to the main flow valve mounting surface. The housing having a second passage extending from the main flow valve mounting surface to the second port. The housing having a main flow weir between the first and second passages. The housing having first and second planar lands formed upon the valve housing block adjacent the first passage for forming a third passage through a respective one of the lands in fluid communication with the first passage. The first and second planar lands are disposed orthogonal to each other and parallel to the main flow axis.

Abstract: A fuel tank protection valve is provided. The valve consists an all-metal diaphragm suitable for operating at low temperatures. The valve includes a tank duct connected to the fuel tank and a second duct connected to a filter. A sealing device is connected to the diaphragm adapted to open and close a passage between the tank duct and the second duct. The valve further includes a one-way, mushroom type valve to allow gas flow from the filter to the gas tank. A clamp cover with air passage openings is included to allow equalization of the pressure between the ambient air and the air pressure within the cover space.

Abstract: A valve (105) controls fluid flow in a microfluidic system (100). The valve (105) has an input port adapted to receive fluid exerting a predetermined level of pressure on the valve (105) and an output port. The valve (105) has a variable sized aperture disposed perpendicular to the flow of the fluid (119). The aperture varies in size between a relatively small aperture (137) and a relatively large aperture (151). The small aperture (137) prevents the flow of the fluid (119) through the valve (105) responsive to a relatively high level of capillary forces between the fluid (119) and the valve (105) in the small aperture (137). The large aperture (151) permits the flow of the fluid (119) through the valve (105) responsive to a relatively low level of capillary forces between the fluid (119) and the valve (105) in the large aperture (151).

Abstract: A two-stage valve for controlling the flow of gas from a pressurized gas supply with an upper main body including a cavity; a lower main body with at least one flow exhaust passage forming a primary flow path through the two-stage valve; a pre-stressed diaphragm sandwiched between the upper and lower main bodies, and pressure control capability for controlling the pressure in the cavity. A secondary flow path exists from the pressurized gas supply through the lower main body, through the upper main body, and terminating in the cavity in the upper main body. A first valve is installed in the secondary flow path to open and close the flow of gas from the pressurized gas supply to the cavity. A second valve installed in an exhaust passage in the upper main body allows the pressure in the cavity to exhaust to the environment. When the second valve is closed, the pressure in the cavity in the upper main body can be increased to lower the pre-stressed diaphragm.

Abstract: The “Improved hydraulic diaphragm valve, for fluid flow regulation” which constitutes the object of this Patent, contains a semi-conical deflector (2) with an open and flat upper face (3), its perimeter being an isosceles triangle and its cross section equal to that of the valve passage, the semi-cone (2) and the triangle (3) being oriented towards the intake of the fluid.

Abstract: A valve for sampling a process from a tank or conduit includes an internal cavity in communication with at least one inlet and an outlet. A valve actuating rod includes a sealing tip attached to one end thereof. The valve actuating rod is movable to open and close the inlet to the internal cavity. Furthermore, a seal is provided to isolate the valve actuating rod and the outside environment from the process. The seal is formed on the process side of the bottom wall of the internal cavity in order to ensure that the process material, cleaning material, steam, etc. drains completely out of the internal cavity of the valve.

Abstract: A unitary diaphragm and seat assembly for making the removal and replacement of diaphragms and seats practical, simple, and easy is taught. The inventive device includes a diaphragm cap, one or more diaphragms, and a diaphragm plate all respectively stacked and welded together in concentric alignment. A valve seat is attached to the lower face of the diaphragm plate. This assembly is concentrically retained within the valve body. The valve actuator installs over the top of the assembly and mechanically attaches onto the valve body. The diaphragm cap is a tubular shaped metal structure. The diaphragm is a circular thin metal disc preferably dome shaped. The diaphragm plate is a disc shaped metal structure having an upper and lower face. The valve seat is a tubular plastic structure. The valve body is a metal structure containing fluid ports and attachment means to a valve actuator.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a microelectromechanical valve having two or more diaphragms containing non-aligned holes to control the flow of fluids. Fluid flows through the holes in the first diaphragm and then must flow between the first and second diaphragm to reach the holes in the second diaphragm, whereupon the fluid is free to flow past the second diaphragm.

Abstract: Micro-valves that include a diaphragm capable of being positioned on a valve seat or removed from the valve seat. The micro-valves also include supports and a cover that restrict the motion of the diaphragm, thereby reducing the possibility of cracking. Micro-valves made by anodically bonding the diaphragm to a seat substrate and anodically bonding the cover to the diaphragm. Micro-injectors that include micro-valves. Also, methods of making the micro-valves and micro-injectors.

Abstract: A diaphragm valve assembly comprising a body (2) defining a valve chamber (10) and first and second passageways (8,9) through said body which, in use, serve as an inlet and an outlet for the valve chamber, a removable, annular valve seat (3) adapted to be installed in the valve chamber around one of said passageways (8,9), seat holding means for holding the valve seat in place in the valve chamber, said seat holding means comprising a seat holder (4) that is shaped to surround said valve seat, a flexibly resilient diaphragm (5) having a valve closing portion and means (4,16) for holding the diaphragm in position in the valve chamber, such that said valve closing portion is disposed juxtaposed said valve seat (3), the diaphragm being shaped such that, when fitted, its resilience urges said valve closing portion away from the valve seat (3) and selectively operable driving means (6) for driving the valve closing portion of the diaphragm (5) into contact with the valve seat (3) for closing the valve; characteris

Abstract: A diaphragm valve can properly mount a peripheral portion of a diaphragm over the entire periphery and reliably establish a seal between the peripheral edge portion on a liquid side of the diaphragm and a diaphragm mounting seat for preventing leakage of a liquid. The diaphragm valve includes an annular base (27) provided to project from a seat surface of mounting seat (12) for a predetermined height and connected with a bracket mounting flange (16) on the side of valve operating portion by bolts (17). A diaphragm retaining portion (30) is formed integrally with flange (16) for compressing the peripheral edge portion of diaphragm with a constant pressure so that flange (16) and base (27) are connected by bolts (17) in the condition where diaphragm (14) is compressed onto base (12) with constant pressure by diaphragm retaining portion (30).

Abstract: A high-temperature gas control valve for controlling a flow of a high-temperature gas, includes a valve seat made of metal, a diaphragm made of metal, which is brought into contact with or separated from the valve seat by operation of an actuator, thereby opening and closing the valve. At least one of the diaphragm and the valve seat is coated with an amorphous-carbon film.

Abstract: The invention is a subsea pump that includes pumping elements, each pumping element including a pressure vessel with a first and a second chamber therein and a separating member disposed between the first and second chambers. The first and second chambers are hydraulically connected to receive and discharge a hydraulic fluid and a drilling fluid, respectively. The separating member moves within the pressure vessel in response to a pressure differential between the first and second chambers. A hydraulic power supply is arranged to pump the hydraulic fluid to the first chamber of each of the pumping elements. A valve assembly is hydraulically coupled to the first chambers of the plurality of pumping elements and to the hydraulic power supply. Volume measurement devices are arranged to measure volumes of each of the first chambers and the second chambers.

Abstract: A fluid controller (1), having a valve body (4) having flow paths used as inlet and outlet for a bonnet (5), and an operating mechanism (7) moving the diaphragm in vertical direction, wherein the flow paths of the valve body communicates with each other through a protrusion-free communication path (8), the diaphragm is fitted closely to the communication path when lowered so as to close the flow path and, when raised, the center part of the diaphragm is recessed and its part near the outer periphery part is protruded, and also a curved surface (52) to which the outer upper surface (63) of the protruded part is closely fitted is formed on the bonnet at the inner lower surface of a diaphragm holding part (51).

Abstract: A flow rate control valve includes a rotary driving source driven by an electric signal, a first movable member screwed axially displaceably in a screw hole by a rotary action of the rotary driving source, a second movable member displaced together with the first movable member, a diaphragm connected to the second movable member, a valve seat on which the diaphragm is seated, and a first fluid port and a second fluid port to which a pressure fluid is supplied or from which the pressure fluid is discharged.

Abstract: A microfluidic device adapted for use with a power source is disclosed. The device includes a substrate and a heater member. The substrate and heater member form a first portion. A second portion is formed adjacent to the first portion. The second portion includes a high activating power polymer portion, at least one resin layer and a shield member. The second portion is selectively shaped to form a thermal expansion portion. A diaphragm member encapsulates the thermal expansion portion so that when power is applied to the heater portion, the high activating power polymer expands against the diaphragm member, causing the diaphragm member to deflect. This device is adapted for use as a microactuator or a blocking microvalve.

Abstract: At least one of a valve body, a sealing tip and a vessel or conduit includes at least one space formed therein between an interior of the vessel or conduit and an internal cavity of the valve. The space includes an active or passive thermal insulation forming at least a partial barrier to the flow of heat between the internal cavity and the interior of the vessel or conduit.

Abstract: A valve for sampling a process from a tank or conduit includes an internal cavity in communication with at least one inlet and an outlet. A valve actuating rod includes a sealing tip attached to one end thereof The valve actuating rod is movable to open and close the inlet to the internal cavity. Furthermore, a seal is provided to isolate the valve actuating rod and the outside environment from the process. The seal is formed on the process side of the bottom wall of the internal cavity in order to ensure that the process material, cleaning material, steam, etc. drains completely out of the internal cavity of the valve.

Abstract: A pneumatically-actuated membrane valve for fluid branching ducts comprises an internally hollow cylinder associable with an end of the duct that is substantially coaxial thereto and inside which a plunger is slidingly accommodated, the head of the plunger being adapted to interact with a circular membrane for closing the end of the duct. The plunger is actuated pneumatically between a closed or open configuration, and an open or closed configuration of the end of the branching duct, at least one abutment for stopping the stroke of said plunger being formed inside the cylinder.

Abstract: A reinforced plastic valve apparatus in a preferred embodiment comprises an upper valve portion, a lower valve portion, an endoskeletal structure configured as a weir support or reinforcing member and an exoskeletal framework configured as a support collar. The upper valve portion preferably includes an upper plastic valve housing or body, a resilient diaphragm and a valve actuator. The lower valve portion comprises a lower plastic valve housing or body that is preferably configured to mate with the upper valve housing to define a valve interior. The lower valve body preferably has an integral weir which, in conjunction with the resilient diaphragm, defines a fluid passage. The diaphragm is configured to sealingly engage and disengage with the weir as effected by the valve actuator. The weir support member is disposable within the lower housing to support the weir.