Patent Application
20200353576
The disclosure relates to valve systems, and more particularly, to check valves.
Flow capacity in check valves can be compromised by the internal valve hardware used to form seals. Seals help minimize certain instances of pressure and fluid loss. Valve performance and longevity may suffer from seal deterioration and deformation over time.
According to a particular embodiment, an apparatus includes a valve assembly having a valve surface, wherein the valve assembly includes an aperture. Seat material may be configured to be positioned within the aperture. A surface of the seat material may be positioned at an angle relative to the valve surface.
The surface of the seat material may be part of a dovetail structure. In one embodiment, the seat material forms an approximately forty-five degree angle with regard to the valve surface. A portion of the seat material may extend above the valve assembly surface when the seat material is seated in the aperture. The seat material may extend above the valve assembly surface according to form part of a seal.
According to a particular embodiment, the seat material is molded into the aperture. The seat material may include at least one of rubber and a polymer and an elastomer. The seat material is formed integrally within the valve assembly. The seat material of an embodiment may be cast within the valve assembly. The seat material of an embodiment must be deformed before it can be removed from the valve assembly.
According to another particular embodiment, a method of manufacturing a valve includes forming an aperture within a valve surface and positioning a seat material within the aperture. A surface of the seat material may be positioned at an angle relative to the valve surface.
These and other advantages and features that characterize embodiments are set forth in the claims annexed hereto and forming a further part hereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention, and of the advantages and objectives attained through its use, reference should be made to the Drawings and to the accompanying descriptive matter in which there are described exemplary embodiments.
A valve assembly may include a seat that is formed integrally (e.g., cast) into a dovetail shaped cavity. A portion of the seat is present above the surface of the disc according to a desired profile and to provide a bubble tight seal. Walls of the dovetail may include an angled surface (e.g., 45 degrees) for retention considerations. The dovetail may be cast, as opposed to machined, to reduce manufacturing costs. Additionally, the seat may be mechanically deformed before it can be removed.
Those skilled in the art may make numerous uses and modifications of and departures from the specific apparatus and techniques disclosed herein without departing from the inventive concepts. Consequently, the disclosed embodiments should be construed as embracing each and every novel feature and novel combination of features present in or possessed by the apparatus and techniques disclosed herein and limited only by the scope of the appended claims, and equivalents thereof.
