Valve plug device for use with a control valve

Abstract

One or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a valve plug apparatus for use with a control valve. Methods, apparatuses, systems, and articles of manufacture for a valve plug apparatus for use with a control valve are disclosed. An exemplary valve plug apparatus disclosed herein includes an upper plug segment, a middle plug segment, and a lower plug segment, the middle plug segment being positioned between the upper plug segment and the lower plug segment, the upper plug segment, the middle plug segment, and the lower plug segment defining a total length of the valve plug, the middle plug segment being detachably coupled to the upper plug segment and the lower plug segment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to fluid valves, and more specifically to valve plug devices for use with control valves. Background Technology

[0002] Control valves are commonly used in process control workshops or systems to control the flow of process fluids. To control fluid flow, fluid control valves employ a valve plug that can move relative to a valve seat. Some control valves (e.g., ball valves) typically include a valve cage with an opening through which fluid can flow when the valve plug is in the open position relative to the valve seat. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The exemplary valve plug device disclosed herein includes an upper plug section, an intermediate plug section, and a lower plug section. The intermediate plug section is located between the upper plug section and the lower plug section. The upper plug section, intermediate plug section, and lower plug section define the total length of the valve plug. The intermediate plug section is detachably coupled to the upper plug section and the lower plug section.

[0004] The exemplary valve disclosed herein includes a valve body having a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a fluid passage extending between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. A valve plug assembly is disposed in the fluid passage. The valve plug assembly is movable relative to the valve body to provide fluid communication between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The valve plug assembly includes a first plug section, a second plug section, and a third plug section. A second plug section is located between the first and third plug sections. The first, second, and third plug sections define the overall length of the valve plug. The second plug section is detachably coupled to the first and third plug sections.

[0005] The example apparatus disclosed herein includes a first component for forming a valve plug, a second component for forming a valve plug removably coupled to the first component, and a third component for forming the valve plug. The third component is detachably coupled to the first and second components. The first, second, and third components are stackable to define the overall length of the valve plug. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of a control valve including an exemplary valve plug according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0007] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary valve plug.

[0008] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary valve plug disclosed herein.

[0009] Figure 4 This is yet another exemplary cross-sectional view of a valve plug disclosed herein.

[0010] Figure 5This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary valve plug disclosed herein.

[0011] Figure 6 This is yet another exemplary cross-sectional view of a valve plug disclosed herein.

[0012] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary valve plug disclosed herein.

[0013] Generally, the same reference numerals are used throughout the accompanying drawings and written description to denote the same or similar parts. The drawings are not drawn to scale. Instead, the thickness of layers or regions may be enlarged in the drawings. While the drawings show layers and regions with clearly defined lines and boundaries, some or all of these lines and / or boundaries may be idealized. In reality, boundaries and / or lines may be unobservable, mixed, and / or irregular.

[0014] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the term "above" describes the relationship of two parts relative to the Earth. The first part is above the second part if the second part has at least one part between the Earth and the first part. Similarly, as used herein, the first part is "below" the second part when the first part is closer to the Earth than the second part. As stated above, the first part may be above or below the second part, wherein one or more of the following are present: other parts in between, no other parts in between, the first and second parts in contact, or the first and second parts not in direct contact with each other.

[0015] As used in this patent, a statement that any part (e.g., a layer, film, region, area, or plate) is on another part in any way (e.g., positioned on another part, located on another part, arranged on another part, or formed on another part, etc.) indicates that the mentioned part is in contact with the other part or that the mentioned part is above the other part, wherein one or more intermediate parts are located therebetween.

[0016] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, a connection reference (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection, and engagement) may include intermediate components between the elements referred to by the connection reference and / or relative movement between those elements. Therefore, a connection reference does not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected and / or fixed to each other. As used herein, the statement that any part is in “contact” with another part is defined to mean that there is no intermediate part between the two parts.

[0017] Unless otherwise expressly stated, descriptors such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., are used herein without implying or otherwise indicating any meaning of priority, physical order, arrangement in a list, and / or sorting, but merely as labels and / or arbitrary names to distinguish elements for ease of understanding of the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor “first” may be used to refer to an element in the detailed description, while the same element may be referred to in the claims by different descriptors such as “second” or “third.” In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are only used to clearly identify, for example, those elements that may share the same name.

[0018] As used in this article, “approximately” and “roughly” refer to dimensions that may not be precise due to manufacturing tolerances and / or other real-world defects. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The process control system employs a fluid control valve to control the flow of fluid between a first position and a second position. When the control valve is in the closed position, it prevents fluid from flowing from a first (e.g., high) pressure region at the valve inlet to a second (e.g., lower) pressure region at the valve outlet. Alternatively, when the control valve is in the open position, it allows fluid to flow from the first pressure region to the second pressure region. The opening and closing of the valve can be performed manually or via command signals from the process control system, which is communicatively connected to the control valve.

[0020] To reduce the pressure of fluid flowing through a control valve (e.g., to control cavitation and / or noise), some control valves employ a valve cage. Typically, a valve cage is a cylindrical body comprising openings in its sidewalls through which fluid flows as it enters and / or exits the valve. In a spool valve, a flow control element or valve plug is implemented or positioned within the valve cage to control the flow of fluid through the openings in the valve cage as fluid flows between the inlet and outlet of the control valve. The valve plug can move in a straight direction (e.g., up and down relative to the valve cage along its central axis) within a cavity or opening (e.g., an axial opening in the valve cage). Specifically, the valve plug can move between a fully closed position and a fully open position. In the fully closed position, the sidewalls of the valve plug (e.g., the outermost surface) block the openings in the valve cage to restrict or prevent fluid flow through the cage, thereby restricting or preventing fluid flow between the inlet and outlet of the control valve. In the fully open position, the sidewalls of the valve plug expose the opening in the valve cage to allow fluid to flow through the cage and thus between the inlet and outlet of the control valve. In some cases, the placement of the valve plug in the partially open position can alter (e.g., reduce) the fluid flow rate compared to when the valve plug is in the fully open position. In some examples, a valve cage is not used, and the valve plug moves relative to the valve seat to control or regulate (e.g., allow or block) the flow of fluid through the control valve.

[0021] Many valves (e.g., slide valves, rotary valves, etc.) have different sizes and / or constructions. Therefore, manufacturers typically manufacture and / or stock valve components (e.g., cages, plugs, etc.) with different sizes and / or constructions to allow for the assembly of different valves and / or reduce manufacturing turnaround time. However, each different valve component may require specialized manufacturing tools (e.g., die-casting tools, sheet metal stamping dies, etc.), resulting in increased manufacturing and / or inventory costs.

[0022] A valve plug for a sliding rod control valve typically comprises a valve stem and a plug body. The valve stem includes an elongated cylindrical body to couple the valve plug body to an actuator (e.g., a pneumatic actuator, an electric actuator, a handwheel, etc.). In some examples, the valve plug body is an integral cylindrical body with a smooth outer surface, coupled to the valve stem via, for example, a threaded connection, a pin, or welding. In some examples, the valve plug body has a stepped outer surface with a varying outer diameter to engage with a valve seat and / or reduce the mass of the valve plug body. In some examples, the valve plug has a single or constant diameter (e.g., along the longitudinal length of the valve body). However, valves come in various sizes, thus often requiring a variety of valve plugs with different lengths in the longitudinal direction (e.g., vertical direction). In other words, each valve plug configuration requires a unique design and manufacturing process due to its fixed or integral design (e.g., in the longitudinal direction).

[0023] The exemplary valve plug devices disclosed herein provide modular valve plugs that can be used with different valves to reduce manufacturing complexity and / or cost. To increase the number of valve plug sizes and / or configurations while reducing manufacturing complexity and / or cost, the exemplary valve plug devices disclosed herein include a modular design. For example, the valve plug devices disclosed herein include multiple plug segments that can be added or removed to adjust the overall length and / or diameter of the modular valve plug. For example, one or more plug segments can be added or stacked to increase the overall longitudinal length of the valve plug (e.g., stack height, vertical length, etc.). In some examples, one or more plug segments can be removed from the valve plug to reduce the overall longitudinal length of the valve plug (e.g., stack height, vertical length, etc.). In some examples, the exemplary valve plugs disclosed herein include a first plug segment or upper plug segment, a second plug segment or intermediate plug segment, and a third plug segment or lower plug segment arranged around a valve stem, wherein the intermediate plug segment is located between the upper and lower plug segments. The exemplary valve plug devices disclosed herein include retainers to hold the upper, intermediate, and lower plug segments coupled to the valve stem. In some examples, intermediate plug segments can be interchanged with one or more other intermediate plug segments to increase or decrease the dimensional characteristics (e.g., length) of the valve plug.

[0024] Alternatively or consequently, the exemplary modular valve plug device disclosed herein can be used to change (e.g., increase or decrease) the diameter of the modular valve plug. In some examples, the upper plug section and / or lower plug section can be interchanged with different example upper plug sections and / or lower plug sections, respectively, to increase or decrease the dimensional characteristics (e.g., diameter) of the valve plug. In some examples, the upper plug section, intermediate plug section, and / or lower plug section include openings for pressure balancing the valve plug. Thus, the exemplary valve plug device disclosed herein can provide a pressure-balanced valve plug or a non-pressure-balanced valve plug. In some examples, the modular valve plug device disclosed herein can be used to change (e.g., increase or decrease) the dimensional characteristics (e.g., total length or height and / or diameter in the longitudinal axial direction) and / or functional characteristics (e.g., pressure-balanced, non-pressure-balanced valve plug) of the valve plug.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a control valve 100 having an exemplary valve plug 102 according to the teachings of the present invention. Figure 1 The control valve 100 includes a valve body 104 defining a fluid passage 104a between a fluid inlet 105 and a fluid outlet 106. The control valve 100 includes a valve internals assembly 108 positioned (e.g., inserted) within the fluid passage 104a of the valve body 104 between the fluid inlet 105 and the fluid outlet 106. The valve internals assembly 108 includes a valve cage 110, a valve seat 112, and a valve plug 102 (e.g., a fluid control member). The valve plug 102 is slidably disposed within a cavity of the valve cage 110 and is movable relative to the valve seat 112 (e.g., the valve cage 110) to control fluid flow through the fluid passage 104a. To move the valve plug 102 relative to the valve cage 110, the valve plug 102 is coupled to an actuator (not shown) via a valve stem 116. The valve stem 116 passes through a stem opening 115 coupled to a valve cap 117 of the valve body 104. Valve cap 117 couples valve body 104 to actuator. Packing assembly 119 (e.g., seal) prevents or reduces fluid leakage into the environment through stem opening 115.

[0026] During operation, the actuator (e.g., from a control signal or manual force) causes the valve plug 102 to move in a first direction (e.g., Figure 1 The actuator moves away from the valve seat 112 in the upward direction (as opposed to the upward direction in the orientation) to the open position, allowing fluid to flow between the fluid inlet 105 and the fluid outlet 106 via the fluid passage 104a. Conversely, the actuator moves in a second direction toward the valve seat 112 (e.g., the upward direction in the orientation) to the open position, allowing fluid to flow between the fluid inlet 105 and the fluid outlet 106 via the fluid passage 104a. Figure 1 The downward orientation of the valve plug 102 is used to move the valve plug 102 to the closed position (e.g., as shown in the example). Figure 1As shown), this is to prevent or restrict fluid flow between fluid inlet 105 and fluid outlet 106. In some examples, the flow direction may be reversed (e.g., fluid flows from fluid outlet 106 through valve body 104 to fluid inlet 105). In some examples, valve plug 102 can be positioned relative to valve seat 112 in a partially open or partially closed position (e.g., between a fully open and fully closed position) to control the flow rate through control valve 100.

[0027] The valve plug 102 in the example shown moves within the valve cage 110 between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the sidewall 118 of the valve plug 102 covers one or more openings 120 of the valve cage 110 to prevent fluid from flowing through the orifice 121 of the fluid passage 104a (e.g., defined by the valve seat 112). In the open position, the sidewall 118 is exposed above the openings 120 of the valve cage 110 to allow fluid to flow through the orifice 121 of the fluid passage 104a.

[0028] In order to balance the pressure of valve plug 102, Figure 1 The exemplary valve plug 102 includes a balancing channel 122 (e.g., an orifice, channel, etc.). Therefore, the exemplary valve plug 102 is pressure-balanced during operation, such that the pressures on the first or upper surface 102a and the second or lower surface 102b of the valve plug 102 are substantially equal (balanced), resulting in a smaller force from the actuator required to move the valve plug 102 between the open and closed positions. In other words, because the exemplary valve plug 102 is pressure-balanced, the force required for the actuator to control the movement of the valve plug 102 is reduced. In some examples, the valve plug 102 may be a non-pressure-balanced valve plug. In other words, the valve plug 102 may be formed without the balancing channel 122.

[0029] Figure 1 The dimensions of the valve body 104 and / or valve internals assembly 108 are adapted to specific fluid flow parameters and / or characteristics (e.g., the flow capacity of the control valve, a specific fluid flow coefficient (Cv), etc.). To change (e.g., increase or decrease) the flow characteristics of a fluid valve, different valve bodies and / or different valve internals are required to provide different flow capacities or flow parameters. For example, different valve body and / or valve internals configurations can be implemented to adapt to different operating conditions (e.g., operating conditions in a process control workshop).

[0030] For example, a larger valve body can be used to accommodate a larger flow rate. In such an example, a larger valve plug might be required. The dimensions of the valve plug 102 (e.g., diameter and / or length) can be compared with those of the valve body (e.g., Figure 1The dimensions of the valve body 104 are increased or decreased proportionally. In some examples, the inner diameter of the valve cage 110 may be increased or decreased based on desired flow rate conditions. Thus, the outer diameter of the valve plug 102 is increased or decreased to reduce the gap between the inner diameter of the valve cage 110 and the outer diameter of the valve plug 102 (e.g., to prevent or reduce fluid leakage through the valve cap 117 and / or to keep the valve plug 102 parallel or vertical (e.g., vertically straight) relative to the valve cage 110). In some examples, the length of the valve cage 110 may be increased or decreased. Thus, the length of the valve plug 102 is increased or decreased proportionally to the length of the valve cage 110. In other examples, the balanced load on the valve plug 102 can be increased or decreased by changing the surface area of ​​the first surface 102a of the valve plug relative to the surface area of ​​the second surface 102b of the valve plug 102, or an unbalanced valve plug (e.g., a valve plug without the balancing passage 122) may be desired. In these examples, alternative plugs may be used instead of the valve plug 102. However, the exemplary valve plug 102 disclosed herein is a modular valve plug 102. As used herein, a modular valve plug means that the size and / or functional characteristics (e.g., overall length, diameter, pressure balancing scheme, etc.) of the valve plug can be adjusted (e.g., increased, decreased, changed, etc.) to change one or more size and / or functional characteristics.

[0031] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary valve plug 102. Figure 2 The exemplary valve plug 102 includes a modular design. For example, Figure 1 The valve plug 102 includes multiple plug segments 202, 204, and 206. Plug segments 202, 204, and 206 can be interchanged with other plug segments to change or alter the size and / or functional characteristics of the valve plug 102.

[0032] Figure 2 The plug sections 202, 204, 206 and / or valve plug 102 shown in the example include a first or upper plug section 202, a second or intermediate plug section 204, and a third or lower plug section 206. Figure 2 In the example, the example valve plug 102 has a cylindrical shape (e.g., a circular cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 207 of the valve plug 102). In other examples, the valve plug 102 may have other shapes such that the cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 207 of the valve plug 102 is a square, hexagon, or any other shape.

[0033] The example upper plug section 202 includes an upper plug cavity 212. Specifically, the upper plug section 202 of the illustrated example includes a body 213 (e.g., a cylindrical body) and an annular wall or flange 211 projecting from the body 213 to define the upper plug cavity 212. The body 213 of the illustrated example includes a hole 202a (e.g., a through hole) coaxially aligned with the longitudinal axis 207 of the valve plug 102. The hole 202a of the illustrated example is a stepped opening (e.g., a through hole and a countersunk hole coaxially aligned with the through hole). The hole 202a of the illustrated example extends through the body 213 and communicates with the cavity 212. In addition, the upper plug section 202 of the illustrated example includes upper balancing openings 226. The upper balancing openings 226 of the illustrated example are formed in the body 213 and are radially spaced relative to the longitudinal axis 207 of the valve plug 102. In the illustrated example, the upper plug section 202 includes two balancing openings 226. However, in some examples, the upper plug section 202 includes one or more balance openings (e.g., three, four, etc.).

[0034] The intermediate plug section 204 in the illustrated example is a body 227 (e.g., a cylindrical body) having a first end 208 and a second end 210 opposite to the first end 208. The body 227 in the illustrated example includes an orifice 204a (e.g., a through-hole) coaxially aligned with the longitudinal axis 207 of the valve plug 102. The orifice 204a in the illustrated example is a straight opening between the first end 208 and the second end 210. The body 227 includes a plurality of intermediate balancing openings 228 radially spaced relative to the longitudinal axis 207 of the valve plug 102. In the illustrated example, the intermediate plug section 204 includes two balancing openings 228. However, in some examples, the intermediate plug section 204 includes one balancing opening or more than two balancing openings (e.g., three, four, etc.).

[0035] An exemplary lower plug section 206 includes a lower plug cavity 214. Specifically, the lower plug section 206 of the illustrated example includes a body 229 (e.g., a cylindrical body) and an annular wall or flange 231 projecting from the body 229 to define the lower plug cavity 214. The body 229 of the illustrated example includes an orifice 206a (e.g., a through hole) coaxially aligned with the longitudinal axis 207 of the valve plug 102. The orifice 206a of the illustrated example extends through the body 229 and communicates with the lower plug cavity 214. Additionally, the lower plug section 206 of the illustrated example includes a lower balancing opening 230. The lower balancing opening 230 of the illustrated example is formed in the body 229 and is radially spaced relative to the longitudinal axis 207 of the valve plug 102. In the illustrated example, the lower plug section 206 includes two balancing openings. However, in some examples, the lower section includes one or more than two balancing openings (e.g., three, four, etc.).

[0036] When assembling the upper, middle, and lower plug sections 202, 204, and 206, the middle plug section 204 is located between the upper plug section 202 and the lower plug section 206. Specifically, at least a portion of the middle plug section 204 (e.g., the first end 208) is disposed within the upper plug cavity 212, and at least a portion of the middle plug section 204 (e.g., the second end 210) is disposed within the lower plug cavity 214. Therefore, the first annular wall 211 of the upper plug section 202 extends (e.g., surrounds or encircles) along at least a portion of the outer surface of the middle plug section 204, and the annular wall 231 of the lower plug section 206 extends (e.g., surrounds or encircles) along at least a portion of the outer surface of the middle plug section 204. Figure 2 In one example, the diameter of the upper plug cavity 212 is substantially equal to the diameter of the lower plug cavity 214 (e.g., the same, within 1%, between about 1% and 5%, etc.). Thus, the exemplary intermediate plug segment 204 has a constant (e.g., unchanging) outer diameter. In another example, the diameter of the upper plug cavity 212 may be larger than the diameter of the lower plug cavity 214 (e.g., more than one percent larger than the diameter of the lower plug cavity 214). In some examples, the diameter of the upper plug cavity 212 may be smaller than the diameter of the lower plug cavity 214 (e.g., more than one percent smaller than the diameter of the lower plug cavity 214). In some examples, the outer diameter of the intermediate plug segment 204 may be non-uniform (e.g., stepped, tapered, etc.) to conform to the diameters of the upper plug cavity 212 and the lower plug cavity 214.

[0037] exist Figure 2 In the exemplary valve plug 102, when the upper plug section 202, the intermediate plug section 204, and the lower plug section 206 are assembled, the holes 202a, 204a, and 206a are aligned (e.g., coaxially aligned) to define a valve stem opening 209 (e.g., a central opening) to receive the valve stem 116. Additionally, the upper balancing opening 226 of the upper plug section 202, the intermediate balancing opening 228 of the intermediate plug section 204, and the lower balancing opening 230 of the lower plug section 206 are aligned (e.g., coaxially aligned) to define a pressure balancing passage 122.

[0038] The valve stem 116 in the example shown includes a shoulder 218 to engage a recessed portion 220 of the upper plug section 202. To define the recessed portion 220, the opening 202a of the upper plug section 202 is a stepped opening (e.g., a through-hole coaxially aligned with a countersunk hole). The shoulder 218 restricts the axial position of the upper plug section 202 such that the recessed portion 220 cannot move past the position of the shoulder 218.

[0039] The second or lower end 222 of the valve stem 116, opposite the first end (e.g., opposite shoulder 218), has external threads. An exemplary retaining nut 224 is threaded onto the lower end 222 of the valve stem 116 to connect the valve stem 116 and the valve plug 102. For example, the exemplary retaining nut 224 provides a clamping force (e.g., in the direction of the longitudinal axis 207) when coupled to the valve stem 116 to retain or secure the axial position of the upper plug section 202, intermediate plug section 204, and / or lower plug section 206 between the retaining nut 224 and the shoulder 218 of the valve stem 116. In some examples, the retaining nut 224 is an internally threaded machine nut or a locknut. Figure 2 The exemplary valve plug 102 includes a pin 232. The exemplary pin 232 is configured to pass through an opening 234 in the retaining nut 224 and further through an opening 236 in the valve stem 116. Figure 2 In one example, the opening 236 in the valve stem 116 has internal threads, and at least a portion of the pin 232 has external threads. The exemplary pin 232 retains and / or secures the retaining nut 224 in an axial position along the valve stem 116. In other words, the exemplary pin 232 prevents the retaining nut 224 from loosening along the threaded portion of the lower end 222 of the valve stem 116. In some examples, the pin 232 is an externally threaded retaining screw, the opening 234 in the retaining nut 224 is internally threaded, and the valve stem 116 does not include the opening 236.

[0040] In the example shown, the upper plug section 202, the middle plug section 204, and the lower plug section 206 are fixed axially along the valve stem 116 without using a permanent or semi-permanent connection (e.g., welding) between any of the upper plug section 202, the middle plug section 204, the lower plug section 206, and / or the valve stem 116. In this way, each component (e.g., the upper plug section 202, the middle plug section 204, the lower plug section 206, etc.) can be interchanged and / or selected based on one or more desired dimensions and / or functional characteristics of the components.

[0041] For example, the valve plug 102 shown in the example has a total height or length 238 (e.g., corresponding to the distance between the first end 102a and the second end 102b) between the first end 102a and the second end 102b of the valve plug 102. The total length 238 of the example shown is defined by the length 240 of the body 227 of the intermediate plug segment 204, the length 242 of the body 213 of the upper plug segment 202, and the length 244 of the body 229 of the lower plug segment 206. The intermediate plug segment 204 can be selected from a class of intermediate plug segments to provide the total length 238 of the valve plug 102. Additionally or alternatively, the upper plug segment 202 and / or the lower plug segment 206 can be selected from a class of upper plug segments and / or lower plug segments to provide the total length 238 of the valve plug 102. In other words, the length 240 of the intermediate plug section 204, the length 242 of the upper plug section 202, and the length 244 of the lower plug section 206 determine the total length 238 of the valve plug 102 (e.g., the length in the longitudinal direction, the stacking height, etc.).

[0042] In some examples, to change the total length 238 of the valve plug 102, the intermediate plug section 204 can be replaced or substituted with an intermediate plug section having a different length than the length 240 of the intermediate plug section 204 (e.g., an intermediate plug section with a longer length, an intermediate plug section with a shorter length). Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, to change the total length 238 of the valve plug 102, the upper plug section 202 and / or the lower plug section 206 can be replaced or substituted with an upper plug section having a length 242 different from that of the upper plug section 202 and / or a lower plug section having a length 244 different from that of the lower plug section 206.

[0043] The valve plug 102 shown in the example has a total outer diameter of 246. In this example, the total outer diameter 246 corresponds to the valve cage (e.g., Figure 1 The inner diameter of the valve cage 110). Specifically, the outer diameter of the upper plug section 202 and / or the outer diameter of the lower plug section 206 defines the total outer diameter 246 of the valve plug. To adjust the total outer diameter 246, the upper plug section 202 and / or the lower plug section 206 can be replaced with correspondingly different upper plug sections and / or lower plug sections with different diameters. For example, when assembling the valve plug 102, the upper plug section 202 can be selected from a variety of prefabricated upper plug sections such that the outer diameter of the upper plug section 202 corresponds to the total outer diameter 246 of the valve plug 102. Similarly, when assembling the valve plug 102, the lower plug section 206 can be selected from a variety of prefabricated lower plug sections such that the outer diameter of the lower plug section 206 corresponds to the desired total outer diameter 246 of the valve plug 102. In addition, the various prefabricated upper plug sections, intermediate plug sections, and lower plug sections may include pressure balancing openings 226, 228, 230 or may not form pressure balancing openings 226, 228, 230.

[0044] The exemplary upper plug section 202, exemplary intermediate plug section 204, and / or exemplary lower plug section 206 may be made of one or more materials (e.g., metal, polymer, composite material, etc.). In some examples, each of the upper plug section 202, intermediate plug section 204, and lower plug section 206 is formed of the same material. In some examples, the intermediate plug section 204 may be formed of a material different from that of the upper plug section 202 and lower plug section 206. For example, the intermediate plug section 204 may be formed of a material with a coefficient of thermal expansion greater than that of the materials of the upper plug section 202 and / or lower plug section 206. In this example, the intermediate plug section 204 may serve as or provide a thermal wedge between the upper plug section 202 and the lower plug section 206. For example, when the valve plug 102 is heated (e.g., during operation of the control valve 100), the intermediate plug section 204 expands at a greater rate than the upper plug section 202 and / or lower plug section 206. As a result, the intermediate plug segment 204 is compressed into the upper plug cavity 212 and / or the lower plug cavity 214, thereby serving as a thermal wedge (e.g., increasing the friction or frictional connection between the upper and lower plug segments).

[0045] The upper plug section 202 of the illustrated example can be formed from raw material cylindrical material (e.g., bar stock, solid casting, etc.) cut to the desired length. In some examples, the raw material cylindrical material may include an upper balancing opening 226 and / or opening 202a. In other examples, the upper balancing opening 226 and / or opening 202a may be formed after the raw material cylindrical material has been cut to the desired length. The intermediate plug section 204 of the illustrated example can be formed from raw material cylindrical material (e.g., bar stock, solid casting, etc.) cut to the desired length. In some examples, the raw material cylindrical material may include an intermediate balancing opening 228 and / or opening 204a. In other examples, the intermediate balancing opening 228 and / or opening 204a may be formed after the raw material cylindrical material has been cut to the desired length. The lower plug section 206 of the illustrated example can also be formed from raw material cylindrical material (e.g., bar stock, solid casting, etc.) cut to the desired length. In some examples, the raw material cylindrical material may include a lower balancing opening 230 and / or opening 206a. In other examples, the lower balancing opening 230 and / or opening 206a may be formed after the raw cylindrical material is cut to the desired length.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary valve plug 300 disclosed herein. The exemplary valve plug 300 includes an upper plug section 202, an intermediate plug section 302, and a lower plug section 206. Figure 3In one example, the exemplary valve plug 300 has a cylindrical shape (e.g., a circular cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 304 of the valve plug 300). In other examples, the valve plug 300 may have other shapes such that the cross-section of the valve plug 300 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 304 is a square, hexagon, or any other shape.

[0047] The example intermediate plug section 302 includes a plurality of intermediate plug discs 306. In the illustrated example, each of the plurality of intermediate plug discs 306 has a height or length 308. In the illustrated example, the length 308 of each intermediate plug disc 306 is uniform or identical. However, in some examples, one or more of the intermediate plug discs 306 may have different lengths. Additionally, each exemplary intermediate plug disc 306 includes a central bore 306a (e.g., a through-hole) and balancing openings 310. Each central bore 306a is coaxially aligned with the longitudinal axis 304 of the valve plug 300. The balancing openings 310 in the illustrated example are formed in each intermediate plug disc 306 and are radially spaced relative to the longitudinal axis 304 of the valve plug 300. In the illustrated example, each intermediate plug disc 306 includes two balancing openings. However, in some examples, some or all of the intermediate plug discs 306 include one or more balancing openings (e.g., three, four, etc.). In some examples, one or more intermediate plug discs 306 do not include balancing openings. During assembly, exemplary intermediate plug discs 306 are stacked axially to form intermediate plug segments 302. Furthermore, the holes 306a and balancing openings 310 of each intermediate plug disc 306 are aligned in the longitudinal direction (e.g., coaxially aligned).

[0048] The example valve plug 300 shown has a total length 312 (e.g., corresponding to the distance between the first end 314 and the second end 316) between the valve plug 300 and its first end 314. An exemplary intermediate plug segment 302 has a length 318. The total length 312 is defined by the length 318 of the intermediate plug segment 302, the length of the upper plug segment 202 above the intermediate plug segment 302, and the length of the lower plug segment 206 below the intermediate plug segment 302. The modular design of the intermediate plug segment 302 allows for easy selection and / or modification of the total length 312 of the exemplary valve plug 300. Figure 3 In the example, the intermediate stopper segment 302 comprises eight intermediate stopper discs 306. Therefore, the sum of the lengths 308 of each intermediate stopper disc 306 provides the length 318 of the intermediate stopper segment 302. The length of the example stopper 300 can be modified by adding or removing one or more intermediate stopper discs 306 (e.g., in increments associated with the length 308). In some examples, each intermediate stopper disc 306 may have a different length value. In some examples, one or more of the intermediate stopper discs 306 may have a length different from the height 308.

[0049] exist Figure 3 In the exemplary valve plug 300, during assembly, the holes 202a, 306a, 206a of the corresponding upper, middle, and lower sections 202, 302, 206 are aligned (e.g., coaxially aligned) to define a central opening 307 to receive the valve stem 320. The valve stem 320 of the illustrated example includes a stem shaft 322 and a stem bolt 324. The exemplary stem shaft 322 extends axially from the exemplary valve plug 300 to couple the valve plug 300 to an actuator (not shown). The diameter of the lower end 326 of the stem shaft 322 is larger than the diameter of the shaft portion 328 of the stem bolt 324. Therefore, the lower end 326 of the stem shaft 322 forms a shoulder to engage the recessed portion 220 of the upper plug section 202. The shoulder formed by the lower end 326 of the stem shaft 322 restricts the axial position of the upper plug section 202 such that the recessed portion 220 cannot move past the position of the lower end 326 of the stem shaft 322.

[0050] The lower end 326 of the rod shaft 322 includes an internally threaded cavity 330 to receive the upper end 332 of the rod bolt 324. The upper end 332 of the rod bolt 324 has external threads and is at least partially disposed within the cavity 330. In some examples, the exemplary shaft portion 328 of the rod bolt 324 is entirely externally threaded. The exemplary shaft portion 328 of the rod bolt 324 extends axially through (e.g., holes 202a, 306a, 206a of the lower plug section 206, the intermediate plug section 302, and the upper plug section 202) of the upper, intermediate, and lower plug sections 202, 302, 206. During the assembly of the exemplary valve plug 300, the rod bolt 324 can be screwed into the cavity 330 of the rod shaft 322. Figure 3 In the example, the rod bolt 324 includes a bolt head 334, the diameter of which is larger than the diameter of the shaft portion 328 of the rod bolt 324. The exemplary bolt head 334 includes an opening 336 to receive a tool for rotating the rod bolt 324 about a longitudinal axis 304. Figure 3 In the example, opening 336 is hexagonal. In other examples, opening 336 may be another shape (e.g., square, star, T-shaped, etc.). The exemplary rod bolt 324 provides clamping force (e.g., in the longitudinal direction) when coupled to the rod shaft 322 to maintain or fix the axial position of the upper plug section 202, intermediate plug section 302, and lower plug section 206 between the bolt head 334 and the lower end 326 of the rod shaft 322.

[0051] In the example shown, the upper plug section 202, the intermediate plug section 302, and the lower plug section 206 are fixed axially along the valve stem 320 without using a permanent or semi-permanent connection (e.g., welding) between any of the upper plug section 202, the intermediate plug section 302, the lower plug section 206, and / or the valve stem 320. In this way, each component (e.g., the upper plug section 202, the intermediate plug section 302, the lower plug section 206, etc.) can be selected based on one or more desired dimensions and / or functional characteristics of the component.

[0052] As described above, in order to change the total length 312 of the valve plug 300, the number of intermediate plug discs 306 in the intermediate plug section 302 can be changed (e.g., increased or decreased). For example, to reduce the total length 312 of the valve plug 300, one or more intermediate plug discs 306 can be removed. To increase the total length, one or more intermediate plug discs 306 can be added. Additionally or alternatively, in order to change the total length 312 of the valve plug 300, the upper plug section 202 can be replaced or replaced with a different upper plug section having a length different from the length of the upper plug section 202, and / or the lower plug section 206 can be replaced or replaced with a different lower plug section having a length different from the height of the lower plug section 206. Furthermore, the rod bolt 324 can be replaced with a rod bolt corresponding to the total length 312 of the valve plug 300.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary valve plug 400 disclosed herein. The exemplary valve plug 400 includes an upper plug section 202, an intermediate plug section 402, and a lower plug section 206. Figure 4 In the example, the exemplary valve plug 400 has a cylindrical shape (e.g., a circular cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 404), and has Figure 4 The cross-section shown is shown. In other examples, the valve plug 400 may have other shapes, such that the cross-section of the valve plug 400 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 404 is a square, hexagon, or any other shape.

[0054] The valve plug 400 shown in the example is similar to Figure 3 The valve plug 300 has a different total length 406 between its first end 408 and its second end 410 (e.g., corresponding to the distance between the first end 408 and the second end 410). For example, an example intermediate plug segment 402 includes a plurality of intermediate plug discs 306, each intermediate plug disc 306 having a length 308 defining the total length 406. In the example shown, the example intermediate plug segment 402 has a length 412. The total length 406 is composed of the length 412 of the intermediate plug segment 402, the length of the upper plug segment 202 (e.g., ... Figure 2 The length of the lower stopper section 206 (e.g., length 242) and the length of the lower stopper section 206 (e.g., Figure 2 The length of the intermediate plug section 402 is limited to 244. Figure 3 The length of the intermediate plug section 302 is 318. As a result, the total length 406 is less than... Figure 3 The total length is 312. The modular design of the intermediate plug section 402 allows for easy selection and / or modification of the total length 406 of the exemplary valve plug 400. For example, the total length 412 can be reduced by reducing the number of intermediate plug discs 306 in the intermediate plug section 402. For example, in Figure 4 In the example, intermediate plug section 402 includes five intermediate plug discs 306. In contrast, Figure 3 The valve plug 300 has eight intermediate plug discs 306 to provide a total length 312. Therefore, the length of the example plug 400 can be modified by adding or removing one or more intermediate plug discs 306.

[0055] The upper plug section 202 in the example shown includes a cavity 414. The cavity 414 allows a seal (e.g., an O-ring) to be coupled to the upper plug section 202. During operation of the control valve and / or when the valve is in the closed position, the seal prevents or reduces contact between the outer surface of the valve plug 400 and the valve cage (e.g., Figure 1 Fluid leakage between the inner surfaces of the example valve cage 110).

[0056] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary valve plug 500 disclosed herein. The exemplary valve plug 500 includes an upper plug section 202, an intermediate plug section 502, and a lower plug section 206. Figure 5 In the example, the exemplary valve plug 500 has a cylindrical shape (e.g., a circular cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 504 of the valve plug 500), having Figure 5 The cross-section shown is shown. In other examples, the valve plug 500 may have other shapes, such that the cross-section of the valve plug 500 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 504 is a square, hexagon, or any other shape.

[0057] Example intermediate plug segment 402 includes a first intermediate plug disc 506 and a second intermediate plug disc 508. Each exemplary first intermediate plug disc 506 has a first length 510, while each exemplary second intermediate plug disc 508 has a second length 512 different from the first length 510. For example, the first length 510 of the illustrated example is less than the second length 512. The exemplary first intermediate plug disc 506 and the second intermediate plug disc 508 are axially stacked to form intermediate plug segment 502. The illustrated example valve plug 500 has a total length 514 (e.g., corresponding to the distance between the first end 516 and the second end 518) between the first end 516 and the second end 518 of the valve plug 500. The exemplary intermediate plug segment 502 has a length 520. The total length 514 is composed of the length 520 of the intermediate plug segment 502, the length of the upper plug segment 202 (e.g., ...), Figure 2 The length of the lower stopper section 206 (e.g., length 242) and the length of the lower stopper section 206 (e.g., Figure 2 The length 514 is defined as 244. The modular design of the intermediate plug section 502 allows for easy selection and / or modification of the overall length 514 of the exemplary plug 500. For example, in Figure 5 In the example, the intermediate plug segment 502 includes two first intermediate plug discs 506 and three second intermediate plug discs 508. The total length 514 of the example plug 500 can be modified by adding or removing one or more first intermediate plug discs 506 and / or second intermediate plug discs 508. Since not all intermediate plug discs have the same length, the length 520 of the intermediate plug segment 502 and the total length 514 of the valve plug 500 can be fine-tuned. In other words, the total length 514 can be modified based on increments of length 510 and / or length 512.

[0058] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary valve plug 600 disclosed herein. Figure 6 The valve plug 600 shown in the example includes a first or upper plug section 602, a second or intermediate plug section 604, and a third or lower plug section 606. Figure 6 In the example, the exemplary valve plug 600 has a cylindrical shape (e.g., a circular cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 608 of the valve plug 600), having Figure 6 The cross-section shown is illustrated. In other examples, the valve plug 600 may have other shapes, such that the cross-section of the valve plug 600 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 608 is a square, hexagon, or any other shape. The upper plug section 602, the middle plug section 604, and the lower plug section 606 include corresponding openings 602a, 604a, and 606a, which are aligned to define a valve stem opening 610 to receive the valve stem 116.

[0059] Such as combination Figure 2 The valve stem 116 has a second end 222 opposite to the first end (e.g., opposite to shoulder 218) with external threads. An exemplary retaining nut 224 is threaded onto the lower end 222 of the valve stem 116 to connect the valve stem 116 and the valve plug 600. For example, the exemplary retaining nut 224 provides a clamping force (e.g., in the direction of the longitudinal axis 207) when coupled to the valve stem 116 to retain or fix the axial position of the upper plug section 602, the intermediate plug section 604, and / or the lower plug section 606 between the retaining nut 224 and the shoulder 218 of the valve stem 116. Figure 6 An exemplary valve plug 600 includes a pin 232. The exemplary pin 232 is configured to pass through an opening 234 in a retaining nut 224 and further through an opening 236 in a valve stem 116. Figure 6 In the example, the opening 236 in the valve stem 116 has internal threads, and at least a portion of the pin 232 has external threads. The exemplary pin 232 retains and / or secures the retaining nut 224 in an axial position along the valve stem 116.

[0060] exist Figure 6 In the example, the upper plug section 602, the intermediate plug section 604, and the lower plug section 606 do not include pressure balancing openings. Therefore, the valve plug 600 is a non-pressure balancing valve plug. In some examples, one or more of the upper plug section 202, the intermediate plug section 204, and / or the lower plug section 206 of the example valve plug 102 may replace the corresponding sections in the example valve plug 600. For example, the intermediate plug section 604 may be... Figure 2 The upper plug section 202 and / or the lower plug section 206 are used together, and the intermediate plug section 604 can provide a non-pressure balancing function. (As in combination) Figure 2 The above, Figure 6 The example plug 600 includes a modular design. Thus, each component (e.g., upper plug segment 604, middle plug segment 604, lower plug segment 606, etc.) can be selected to match one or more desired properties of the component.

[0061] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary valve plug 700 disclosed herein. Figure 7 The valve plug 700 shown in the example includes a first plug section or upper plug section 702, a second plug section or intermediate plug section 704, and a third plug section or lower plug section 706. Figure 7 In the example, the exemplary valve plug 700 has a cylindrical shape (e.g., a circular cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 708 of the valve plug 700), and has Figure 7 The cross-section shown is illustrated. In other examples, the valve plug 700 may have other shapes, such that the cross-section of the valve plug 700 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 708 is a square, hexagon, or any other shape. The upper plug section 702, the intermediate plug section 704, and the lower plug section 706 include corresponding openings 702a, 704a, and 706a, which are aligned to define a valve stem opening 707 to receive the valve stem 116.

[0062] Such as combination Figure 2 The valve stem 116 has a second end 222 opposite to the first end (e.g., opposite to shoulder 218) with external threads. An exemplary retaining nut 224 is threaded onto the lower end 222 of the valve stem 116 to couple the valve stem 116 and the valve plug 700. For example, the exemplary retaining nut 224 provides a clamping force (e.g., in the direction of the longitudinal axis 207) when coupled to the valve stem 116 to retain or fix the axial position of the upper plug section 702, the intermediate plug section 704, and / or the lower plug section 706 between the retaining nut 224 and the shoulder 218 of the valve stem 116. Figure 7 The exemplary valve plug 700 includes a pin 232. The exemplary pin 232 is configured to pass through an opening 234 in the retaining nut 224 and further through an opening 236 in the valve stem 116. Figure 7In the example, the opening 236 in the valve stem 116 has internal threads, and at least a portion of the pin 232 has external threads. The exemplary pin 232 retains and / or secures the retaining nut 224 in an axial position along the valve stem 116.

[0063] exist Figure 7 In the example, the upper plug section 702, the intermediate plug section 704, and the lower plug section 706 each include a single pressure balancing opening. For example, the upper plug section 702 includes an upper balancing opening 710 on a first radial portion of the upper plug section 702. The second radial portion of the upper plug section 702 does not include a balancing opening. Similarly, the intermediate plug section 704 includes an intermediate balancing opening 712 on a first radial portion of the intermediate plug section 704, while the second radial portion of the intermediate plug section 704 does not include a balancing opening. Additionally, the lower plug section 706 includes a lower balancing opening 714 on a first radial portion of the lower plug section 706, while the second radial portion of the lower plug section 706 does not include a balancing opening. Figure 7 In the example, the upper balance opening 710, the middle balance opening 712, and the lower balance opening 714 are aligned (e.g., coaxially aligned) to allow fluid communication between the first end 716 and the second end 718 of the plug 700.

[0064] "Comprising" and "including" (and all forms and variations thereof) are used herein as open-ended terms. Therefore, whenever a claim uses any form of "comprising" or "including" (e.g., including, containing, comprising, having, etc.) as a preamble or within any kind of claim statement, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc., may be present without falling outside the scope of the corresponding claim or statement. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term, for example, in the preamble of a claim, it is open-ended in the same way that the terms "comprising" and "including" are open-ended. When used, for example, in the form of A, B, and / or C, the term "and / or" refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C, such as (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, or (7) A and B and C. As used herein in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, the phrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein in the context of describing the execution or performance of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and / or steps, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the execution or performance of a process, instruction, action, activity and / or step, the phrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer to an implementation including (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) any one of at least one A and at least one B.

[0065] As used herein, singular references (e.g., “a,” “an,” “first,” “second,” etc.) do not exclude plural. The term “a” or “an” as used herein refers to one or more of the same object. The terms “a,” “one or more,” and “at least one” are used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although listed separately, multiple means, elements, or method actions can be implemented by, for example, the same entity or object. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these features may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not imply that the combination of features is impractical and / or disadvantageous.

[0066] The foregoing exemplary valve plugs 102, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 and / or other components disclosed herein can be used with any control valve. Although each example of valve plug 102, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 and / or other components disclosed above is depicted as having certain features, it should be understood that a particular feature of one example is not necessarily exclusive to use with that example. Instead, any feature described above and / or depicted in the accompanying drawings may be combined with any example, in addition to or in lieu of any other feature of these examples. A feature of one example is not mutually exclusive with a feature of another example. Rather, the scope of this disclosure includes any combination of any features.

[0067] At least the upper plug sections 202, 602, and 702 can realize the first component for forming the valve plug. At least the lower plug sections 206, 606, and 706 can realize the second component for forming the valve plug. At least the intermediate plug sections 204, 302, 402, 502, 604, and 704 can realize the third component for forming the valve plug. At least the upper plug sections 202, 602, and 702, the intermediate plug sections 204, 302, 402, 502, 604, and 704, the lower plug sections 206, 606, and 706, and / or the intermediate plug discs 306, 506, and 508 can realize components for stacking.

[0068] This document discloses example methods, apparatuses, systems, and articles of manufacture for implementing valve plug devices used with control valves. Other examples and combinations thereof include the following:

[0069] Example 1 includes a valve plug device comprising an upper plug section, an intermediate plug section, and a lower plug section, the intermediate plug section being located between the upper and lower plug sections, the upper, intermediate, and lower plug sections defining the total length of the valve plug, the intermediate plug section being detachably coupled to the upper and lower plug sections.

[0070] Example 2 includes the valve plug device of Example 1, wherein the upper plug section includes a first cavity and the lower plug section includes a second cavity, and wherein the intermediate plug section has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end being at least partially disposed within the first cavity and the second end being at least partially disposed within the second cavity.

[0071] Example 3 includes the valve plug device of Example 1, wherein the valve plug includes a pressure balancing opening defined by openings formed in the upper plug section, the intermediate plug section and the lower plug section.

[0072] Example 4 includes the valve plug device of Example 1, wherein the intermediate plug segment includes a plurality of intermediate plug discs, which are axially stacked to form the intermediate plug segment.

[0073] Example 5 includes the valve plug device of Example 1, and further includes a rod received by a rod opening defined by an upper plug section, an intermediate plug section and a lower plug section.

[0074] Example 6 includes the valve plug device according to claim 5, wherein the rod includes a shoulder to engage a recessed portion of the upper plug section.

[0075] Example 7 includes the valve plug device of Example 5, wherein the rod includes a first rod portion and a second rod portion, the first rod portion including an internally threaded cavity, and the second rod portion including a first end having an external thread to engage the internally threaded cavity of the first rod portion.

[0076] Example 8 includes the valve plug device of Example 5, and further includes a retaining nut disposed at the end of the rod, the retaining nut holding the upper plug section, the intermediate plug section and the lower plug section in axial position relative to the rod.

[0077] Example 9 includes the valve plug device of Example 8, wherein the retaining nut has internal threads and the end of the rod has external threads.

[0078] Example 10 includes the valve plug device of Example 8, and also includes a pin to retain the retaining nut in axial position relative to the rod.

[0079] Example 11 includes a valve comprising: a valve body including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a fluid passage extending between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet; and a valve plug device disposed in the fluid passage, the valve plug device being movable relative to the valve body to enable fluid communication between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet, the valve plug device including a first plug segment, a second plug segment; and a third plug segment located between the first plug segment and the third plug segment, the first plug segment, the second plug segment, and the third plug segment defining the total length of the valve plug, the second plug segment being detachably coupled to the first plug segment and the third plug segment.

[0080] Example 12 includes the valve of Example 11, which further includes a rod received by a rod opening defined by a first plug section, a second plug section, and a third plug section.

[0081] Example 13 includes the valve of Example 11, wherein the diameter of the valve plug assembly is defined by at least one of the diameter of the first plug segment or the diameter of the third plug segment.

[0082] Example 14 includes the valve of Example 13, wherein the diameter of the valve plug device corresponds to the inner diameter of the valve cage.

[0083] Example 15 includes the valve of Example 11, wherein the second plug segment includes a plurality of discs that are axially stacked to form the second plug segment.

[0084] Example 16 includes the valve of Example 15, wherein the length of one or more of the discs can be removed to reduce the total height of the valve plug.

[0085] Example 17 includes the valve of Example 15, which includes a number of discs in multiple discs that can be increased to increase the total length of the valve plug.

[0086] Example 18 includes the valve of Example 15, wherein a first portion of the disc has a first length and a second portion of the disc has a second length.

[0087] Example 19 includes an apparatus comprising a first component for forming a valve plug, a second component for forming a valve plug removably coupled to the first component, and a third component for forming a valve plug removably coupled to the first and second components, wherein the first, second, and third components can be stacked to define the total length of the valve plug.

[0088] Example 20 includes the apparatus of Example 19, wherein the second component for forming includes a plurality of components for stacking, the components for stacking being adjusted to change the total length.

[0089] The appended claims are incorporated herein by reference. While certain exemplary systems, methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Rather, this patent covers all systems, methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture that fall fully within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. A valve plug device, comprising: Upper section; Intermediate section; as well as The lower plug section, the intermediate plug section located between the upper plug section and the lower plug section, defines the central body of the valve plug device, the upper plug section, the intermediate plug section and the lower plug section define the total length of the valve plug device, the intermediate plug section is detachably coupled to the upper plug section and the lower plug section to change the total length of the valve plug device, wherein the intermediate plug section includes a plurality of intermediate plug discs, the intermediate plug discs being axially stacked to form the intermediate plug section.

2. The valve plug device of claim 1, wherein the upper plug section includes a first body and a first annular wall extending from the first body to define a first cavity, and the lower plug section includes a second body and a second annular wall extending from the second body to define a second cavity, and wherein the intermediate plug section has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end being at least partially disposed within the first cavity, and the second end being at least partially disposed within the second cavity.

3. The valve plug device according to claim 1, wherein the valve plug includes a pressure balancing opening defined by an opening formed in the upper plug section, the intermediate plug section and the lower plug section.

4. The valve plug device according to claim 1, further comprising: A rod, which is received by a rod opening, the rod opening being defined by the upper plug section, the middle plug section and the lower plug section.

5. The valve plug device according to claim 4, wherein the rod includes a shoulder to engage a recessed portion of the upper plug section.

6. The valve plug device according to claim 4, wherein the rod comprises: A first rod portion, the first rod portion including an internally threaded cavity; and The second rod portion includes a first end having an external thread to engage the internal thread cavity of the first rod portion.

7. The valve plug apparatus of claim 4, further comprising: A retaining nut is provided at the end of the rod to retain the axial position of the upper plug section, the middle plug section, and the lower plug section relative to the rod.

8. The valve plug device according to claim 7, wherein the retaining nut has an internal thread and the end of the rod has an external thread.

9. The valve plug device according to claim 7, further comprising a pin for retaining the retaining nut in an axial position relative to the rod.

10. A valve comprising: A valve body, the valve body including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a fluid passage extending between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet; as well as A valve plug device is disposed in the fluid passage and is movable relative to the valve body to enable fluid communication between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The valve plug device includes: First section; The second section; and A third plug segment, the second plug segment located between the first plug segment and the third plug segment, the first plug segment, the second plug segment and the third plug segment defining the total length of the valve plug, the second plug segment having a first height, the second plug segment being detachably coupled to the first plug segment and the third plug segment, and being interchangeable with a fourth plug segment having a second height different from the first height to change the total length of the valve plug, wherein the second plug segment includes a first plurality of discs axially stacked to form the second plug segment, and the fourth plug segment includes a second plurality of discs axially stacked to form the fourth plug segment.

11. The valve of claim 10, further comprising a rod received by a rod opening defined by a first plug section, a second plug section, and a third plug section.

12. The valve of claim 10, wherein the diameter of the valve plug device is defined by at least one of the diameter of the first plug segment or the diameter of the third plug segment.

13. The valve according to claim 12, wherein the diameter of the valve plug device corresponds to the inner diameter of the valve cage.

14. The valve of claim 10, wherein one or more of the discs can be removed to reduce the overall length of the valve plug.

15. The valve of claim 10, wherein one or more of the discs can be added to increase the total length of the valve plug.

16. The valve of claim 10, wherein the first portion of the disc has a first length and the second portion of the disc has a second length.

17. A valve plug device, comprising: The first component used to form the valve plug; A second component for forming a valve plug, the second component being removably coupled to the first component; as well as A third component for forming a valve plug, the third component being detachably coupled to the first component and the second component, wherein the first component, the second component and the third component are stackable to define the total length of the valve plug, wherein the second component for forming the valve plug includes a plurality of stackable components, the stackable components being adjustable to change the total length of the valve plug.

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