Non-metal valve seat shell

Abstract

A valve seat assembly is provided herein. The valve seat may include a ceramic valve seat liner positioned within the upper section proximal to the lower section. An upper retaining ring may at least partially surround the upper section.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Non - Provisional Application No. 18 / 379,611, filed on October 12, 2023, and entitled "NONMETAL VALVE SEAT HOUSING" (hereinafter referred to as the '611 application). The '611 application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 415,791, filed on October 13, 2022, and entitled "NONMETAL VALVE SEAT HOUSING" (hereinafter referred to as the '791 application). The '611 application and the '791 application are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] In various industrial processes, such as in mineral processing, solids and liquids may be transported from one container to another at high temperatures and pressures. Flow control between the two containers may be required so that the flow rate can be adjusted. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In various embodiments, a valve seat assembly is provided that includes: a ceramic seat lining coaxially disposed with a ceramic seat end lining; an upper section surrounding a first outer diameter surface portion of the ceramic seat lining, the upper section being disposed with the ceramic seat lining; and a lower section surrounding a second outer diameter surface portion of the ceramic seat lining, the first outer diameter surface portion being proximal to the second outer diameter surface portion.

[0005] In various embodiments, a method of manufacturing a valve seat assembly is provided that includes: coaxially disposing a ceramic seat lining with a ceramic seat end lining; coupling an upper section surrounding a first outer diameter surface portion of the ceramic seat lining, the upper section being disposed with the ceramic seat lining; and coupling a lower section surrounding a second outer diameter surface portion of the ceramic seat lining, the first outer diameter surface portion being proximal to the second outer diameter surface portion.

[0006] In various embodiments, a valve seat assembly is provided that includes: a seat lining assembly including a seat lining coaxially disposed within a seat lining housing; an upper retaining ring disposed distal to the upper section; a lower section disposed distal to the upper retaining ring, the lower section including a radial cutout, and the seat lining housing including a radial insert, the radial insert and the radial cutout forming a circumferential channel. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] In the concluding part of the specification, various embodiments are specifically pointed out and protection is expressly claimed. The following is an overview of the drawings, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and in the drawings:

[0008] Figure 1 An industrial process with a control valve according to various embodiments is illustrated;

[0009] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a valve seat configuration according to various embodiments is illustrated;

[0010] Figure 3 An illustration of Figure 2 a disassembled cross-sectional view of a valve seat assembly according to various embodiments;

[0011] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a valve seat configuration according to various embodiments is illustrated;

[0012] Figure 5 An illustration of Figure 4 a disassembled cross-sectional view of a valve seat assembly according to various embodiments;

[0013] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a valve seat configuration according to various embodiments is illustrated;

[0014] Figure 7 An illustration of Figure 5 a disassembled cross-sectional view of a valve seat assembly according to various embodiments;

[0015] Figure 8 A view of an annular flange according to various embodiments is illustrated;

[0016] Figure 9 A disassembled view of a valve seat assembly according to various embodiments is illustrated; and

[0017] Figure 10A and Figure 10B An illustration of Figure 9 a cross-sectional view of a valve seat assembly according to various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The detailed description of the exemplary embodiments herein refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments and their best modes by way of illustration. Although these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be implemented and logical, chemical, and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation. For example, the steps recited in any method or process description may be executed in any order and need not be limited to the order presented. Additionally, many functions or steps may be outsourced to or performed by one or more third parties. Further, any reference to singular includes multiple embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step may include a singular embodiment or step. Additionally, any reference to attachment, fixation, connection, etc. may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, complete, and / or any other possible attachment options.

[0019] A throttle valve or control valve is operable to regulate the flow of fluid or slurry in a conduit. For example, referring to Figure 1 , an ore processing system 100 is illustrated. The ore processing system 100 can be used in combination with high pressure acid leaching (“HPAL”), pressure oxidation (“POX”), or any other mining or industrial application where a solvent is mixed with a material containing one or more metals and subjected to, for example, at least one of elevated temperature or pressure.

[0020] A mixture of solids, liquids, and / or gases, which may be referred to as a slurry, can be subjected to high temperature and / or high pressure in an autoclave 102. For example, ore can be mixed with a strong acid (such as H 2 SO 4 ) or a strong base (such as NaOH or NH 3 ), and can be subjected to a temperature of 80 °C to 300 °C or higher and a total pressure of about 10 psi (~68 kPa) to 900 psi (~6,205 kPa). The slurry can have a pH of less than 1 to 4 (in acidic applications) or between about 10 to 14 (in basic applications). A throttle valve, such as control valve 120, can be positioned between the autoclave 102 and the high pressure flash tank 106, and can be used to control the flow between two components of the ore processing system 100. A low pressure flash tank 108 is also illustrated for reference. The control valve 120 can be paired with an isolation valve 111. The isolation valve 111 can be a ball valve, a plug valve, or any other suitable valve.

[0021] The size of the autoclave 102 can be determined according to industrial needs, but in various embodiments is greater than 200 m 3 . The size of the discharge line 110 can also vary, but in various embodiments is greater than 50 mm in diameter.

[0022] The control valve 120 may include an angle valve.

[0023] In other embodiments, the control valve 120 may include a non-isolation valve, wherein the control valve 120 is used to reduce or regulate pressure and / or flow rate. For example, the control valve 120 may include an exhaust valve, a flash relief valve, or a level control valve, as well as other types of valves.

[0024] In operation, the control valve 120 may be actuated to a closed position to fluidly isolate the flash tank 106 from the autoclave 102. In response to actuation to the open position, when the slurry flows from the autoclave 102 to the high-pressure flash tank 106, the control valve 120 may experience a slurry flow at high speed, high temperature, and pressure. Thus, for the fluid under processing conditions, the control valve 120 may experience corrosion and erosion conditions over an extended period of time, as well as flow velocities approaching or exceeding the speed of sound.

[0025] The expected material flowing through the valve seat assembly and the speed at which this material is expected to flow are important in valve design. In various embodiments, slurries including solid, liquid, and gas phases are intended to flow through the valve seat assembly. According to the compressible flow theory and thermodynamics of multiphase systems, according to various embodiments, the flow at the throat is choked and flows at the local speed of sound. As the area expands, the velocity increases and the fluid density decreases.

[0026] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 shows the valve seat assembly 200 in cross-section. For convenience, the axial-radial-circumferential (A-R-C) axes are shown in this figure and other figures. It should be noted that a first component shown as being displaced in the positive axial direction relative to a second component may be referred to as distal to the second component. The valve seat assembly 200 can be used in various valve configurations, including the control valve 120 coupled to the flash tank 106, etc.

[0027] The valve seat assembly 200 may connect the valve body 234 to the covers 208 and 210, wherein the member 210 may include a sandblasting tube or a choke tube, a pipe, or other container configured to receive the flow from the valve body 234. The valve body 234 and the member 210 may include one or more metallic materials, such as various metals and metal alloys known in the industry. The plug may be configured to interface with the seat lining 202 to regulate the fluid flow from the valve body 234 through the valve seat assembly 200 and more specifically through the seat lining 202. The valve seat assembly 200 allows fluid communication between the valve bodies 234, through the cover 208 and into the member 210.

[0028] In various embodiments, the plug may comprise a ceramic material. Ceramics are particularly suitable for high erosion applications. The plug may have varying geometries. For example, the geometry may be spherical, parabolic, flat, or any other suitable geometric configuration. A translation axis may also be present that is coupled to the plug. In various embodiments, the plug may comprise one or more metals such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, ceramics such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ), and nickel-chromium alloys such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys such as the austenitic nickel-chromium alloy sold under the trademark INCONEL. Nickel-chromium alloys may be well-suited for high temperature environments.

[0029] In various embodiments, the seat liner 202 may comprise one or more ceramics such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ). The seat liner 202 is generally cylindrical in geometry, having a constant inner diameter (ID), although in various embodiments the inner diameter may taper from the axial ends to the axial ends. In various embodiments, the seat liner 202 spans the axial length of the valve seat assembly 200. However, as shown, the seat liner 202 axially terminates at or near the distal portion of the valve seat assembly 200 where the seat liner 202 is coaxially or substantially coaxially aligned with the seat end liner 230. The seat end liner 230 may comprise a tapered ID and a constant outer diameter (OD). In this regard, the ID of the seat end liner 230 flares distally, meaning that the distal end has an ID that is greater than the ID of the proximal end that abuts, adjoins, or is otherwise disposed proximal to the seat liner 202.

[0030] The seat liner 202 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by the upper section 204. The upper section 204 interfaces with and / or contacts the OD surface of the seat liner 202. In embodiments where there is no seat end liner 230, the upper section 204 may interface with and / or contact the seat liner 202. The upper section 204 includes a compliant material. In various embodiments, the upper section 204 may include one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermosetting material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), glass-filled PTFE, expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the upper section 204 may include rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the upper section 204 includes carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may include from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the upper section 204 includes a non-polymeric material, such as a silicone-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260 °C), a silicone-based compound or a metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the upper section 204 (compared to the performance of a polymeric material at the same elevated temperature).

[0031] The upper retaining ring 226 is illustrated as surrounding the proximal portion of the OD of the upper section 204, which in turn surrounds the seat liner 202. The upper retaining ring 226 faces the valve body 234 and thus benefits from being constructed of a material that tends to resist erosion and corrosion. Accordingly, the upper retaining ring 226 is disposed coaxially with respect to the seat liner 202. Passing through the upper section 204 is a bolt 216, which is seated in the upper retaining ring 226. The upper retaining ring 226 may include one or more metals, such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as an austenitic nickel-chromium alloy sold under the trademark INCONEL.

[0032] In various embodiments, since the seat liner 202 includes a ceramic material and the valve body 234 and member 210 include a metallic material, the different coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) associated with these materials should be considered because the operating temperatures encountered can be substantially higher than room temperature and can approach 100°C to 250°C or higher. In various embodiments, the ceramic material of the seat liner 202 includes a coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) different from that of the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 226. Thus, during operation, the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 226 can linearly expand at a different rate and magnitude than the ceramic material of the seat liner 202. Generally speaking, metals have a higher coefficient of thermal expansion than ceramics, resulting in a difference in the overall expansion of the seat liner 202 (relatively small linear expansion) and the upper retaining ring 226 (relatively large linear expansion). For example, the coefficient of thermal expansion of an INCONEL alloy can be in the range of about 13*10 - 6 mm / mm / °C to about 16* 10-6 mm / mm / °C, and the coefficient of thermal expansion of a fine ceramic can be in the range of about 2*10 -6 mm / mm / °C to about 11*10 -6 mm / mm / °C. Thus, if the seat liner 202 and the upper retaining ring 226 are in direct contact, the greater degree of linear expansion in the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 226 can create a change in the load on the seat liner 202. By employing an upper section 204 made of a compliant material having a higher CTE, such as PTFE and / or carbon-filled PTFE as described herein, the upper retaining ring 226 can slide axially relative to the seat liner 202 due to reduced surface friction of the upper section 204, thereby relieving the axial load. In addition, when the upper retaining ring 226 expands radially in response to a temperature change, the upper section 204 expands to a greater extent, sufficient to ensure contact of the upper section 204 with both the seat liner 202 and the upper retaining ring 226. In addition, a ceramic material, such as the ceramic material that can be used for the seat liner 202, can be relatively resistant to compressive loads.

[0033] An expansion cavity 260 is formed in the upper section 204, and an expansion cavity 261 is formed in the lower section 206 to respectively allow the thermal expansion of the materials of the upper section 204 and the lower section 206 to exceed the available volume during exposure to a high-temperature environment. The expansion cavities 260, 261 can be formed in any suitable manner.

[0034] When bolts 224, 216 pass through the upper section 204, bolt retaining rings 250 retain bolts 224, 216. Bolts 224, 216 are circumferentially arranged around the upper section 204. The lower seat flange 228 may include one or more metals, such as various steel alloys, stainless steels, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL. The lower seat flange 228 includes a ring that circumferentially surrounds the seat lining 202 and provides a transition from the upper section 204 to the lower section 206.

[0035] The seat lining 202 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by the lower section 206. The lower section 206 interfaces with and / or contacts the OD surface of the seat lining 202. The lower section 206 includes a compliant material. In various embodiments, the lower section 206 may include one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermosetting material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), carbon-filled PTFE, glass-filled PTFE, expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the lower section 206 may include rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the lower section 206 includes carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may include from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the lower section 206 includes a non-polymeric material, such as a silicone-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260 °C), the silicone-based compound or metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the lower section 206 (compared to the performance of polymeric materials at the same elevated temperature).

[0036] The lower retaining ring 232 is illustrated as surrounding at least the distal portion of the OD of the seat end lining 230. The lower retaining ring 232 faces the member 210 and thus benefits from being constructed of a material that tends to resist erosion and corrosion. Thus, the lower retaining ring 232 is coaxially disposed relative to the seat lining 202 and the seat end lining end. Passing through the lower seat flange 228 is a bolt 222, which is seated in the lower retaining ring 232. The lower retaining ring 232 is arranged, for example, to prevent linear expansion of the lower section 206. Additionally, the lower retaining ring 232 may include one or more cavities that receive the expansion of the lower section 206 at temperatures above room temperature. The lower retaining ring 232 may include one or more metals, such as various steel alloys, stainless steels, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL.

[0037] The seat end lining 230 opens distally into a cavity defined by the blast tube lining 214. The blast tube lining 214 is surrounded or at least partially surrounded by the blast tube 212, which in turn is surrounded or at least partially surrounded by the member 210. The blast tube lining 214 is shown as having an inner diameter (ID) greater than that of the seat end lining 230 and the lower retaining ring 232. In this regard, there is a radial step that is created such that the mass flow through the seat end lining 230 will transition to the space defined by the blast tube lining 214, which may have a larger cross-sectional area than the seat end lining 230. The seat end lining 230 may be press-fit within the lower retaining ring 232 and coaxial therewith.

[0038] In this configuration, the upper section 204 and the lower section 206 operate to hold the seat lining 202 in place, even at the elevated operating temperatures described herein. Additionally, the upper section 204 and the lower section 206 provide an assembly stress limiting layer between the seat lining 202, the valve body 234, the cap 208, and the blast tube lining 214, as well as the retaining components 226 and 232. When the valve seat assembly 200 is exposed to varying temperatures and other types of forces, the compliant nature of the upper section 204 and the lower section 206 limits the loads on the seat lining 202. Further, the upper section 204 and the lower section 206 provide thermal isolation between the various metal parts of the valve seat lining 202, thereby reducing heat transfer and potentially reducing thermal stress while reducing weight. The compliance of the upper section 204 and the lower section 206 allows for a lower degree of precision machining of the ceramic seat lining 202 and the seat end lining 230 than might otherwise be required. In other words, the seat lining 202 does not need to be polished or lapped on the portions of the OD surface that interface with the sections 204 and 206. In various embodiments, the ceramic seat lining 202 and / or the seat end lining 230 may be used in a "fired" state, meaning that no or only minimal grinding or sanding is performed after firing.

[0039] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 , shows a valve seat assembly 400 in cross-section. The valve seat assembly 400 may be used in a variety of valve configurations, including for controlling valves 120 and the like.

[0040] The valve seat assembly 400 can connect the valve body 534 to the covers 508 and 510, where the member 510 can include a tank, pipe, or other container configured to receive flow from the valve body 534. The valve body 534 and the member 510 can include one or more metallic materials, such as various metals and metal alloys known in the industry. The plug can be configured to interface with the seat lining 502 to prevent mass flow from the valve body 534 through the valve seat assembly 400 and more particularly through the seat lining 502. The valve seat assembly 400 allows fluid communication between the valve bodies 534, through the cover 508 and into the member 510. Additionally, the valve body 534 has shoulders to limit linear expansion in response to temperatures above room temperature.

[0041] In various embodiments, the plug can include a ceramic material. Ceramics are particularly suitable for high erosion applications. The plug can have varying geometries. For example, the geometry can be spherical, parabolic, flat, or any other suitable geometric configuration. A translation axis can also be coupled to the plug. In various embodiments, the plug can include one or more metals, such as for example various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, ceramics such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ), and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL. Nickel-chromium alloys can be well-suited for high temperature environments.

[0042] In various embodiments, the seat lining 502 can include one or more ceramics, such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ). The seat lining 502 is generally cylindrical in geometry, having a constant inner diameter (ID), although in various embodiments, the inner diameter can taper from the axial ends to the axial ends. In various embodiments, the seat lining 502 spans the axial length of the valve seat assembly 400. However, as shown, the seat lining 502 axially terminates at or near the distal portion of the valve seat assembly 400, where the seat lining 502 is coaxially or substantially coaxially aligned with the seat end lining 530. The seat end lining 530 can include a tapered ID and a constant outer diameter (OD). In this regard, the ID of the seat end lining 530 can flare distally, meaning the distal end has an ID greater than the ID of the proximal end that abuts, adjoins, or is otherwise disposed proximal to the seat lining 502. A sleeve 531 can be disposed between the seat end lining 530 and the lower retaining ring 532.

[0043] The seat liner 502 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by the upper section 504. Sections 504 and 506 interface with and / or contact the OD surface of the seat liner 502. The upper section 504 comprises a compliant material. In various embodiments, the upper section 504 may comprise one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermosetting material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), carbon-filled PTFE, glass-filled PTFE, expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the upper section 504 may comprise rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the upper section 504 comprises carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the upper section 504 comprises a non-polymeric material, such as a silicone-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260 °C), a silicone-based compound or a metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the upper section 504 (compared to the performance of a polymeric material at the same elevated temperature).

[0044] The upper retaining ring 526 is illustrated as surrounding the proximal portion of the OD of the upper section 504, which in turn surrounds the seat liner 502. The upper retaining ring 526 faces the valve body 534 and thus benefits from being constructed of a material that tends to resist erosion and corrosion. Accordingly, the upper retaining ring 526 is disposed coaxially with respect to the seat liner 502. The upper retaining ring 526 may comprise one or more metals, such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as an austenitic nickel-chromium alloy sold under the trademark INCONEL.

[0045] In various embodiments, since the seat liner 502 comprises a ceramic material and the valve body 534 and the member 510 comprise metallic materials, different coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) associated with these materials should be considered, as the operating temperatures encountered may be substantially above room temperature and may approach 100 °C to 250 °C or higher. In various embodiments, the ceramic material of the seat liner 502 comprises a different coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) than the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 526. Accordingly, during operation, the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 526 may linearly expand at a different rate than the ceramic material of the seat liner 502. Generally speaking, metals have a higher coefficient of thermal expansion than ceramics, thus creating a difference in the overall expansion of the seat liner 502 (relatively little linear expansion) and the upper retaining ring 526 (relatively large linear expansion). For example, the coefficient of thermal expansion of an INCONEL alloy may be about 13*10 -6mm / mm / °C to about 16* 10-6 in the range of mm / mm / °C, and the coefficient of thermal expansion of the fine ceramics can be about 2×10 -6 mm / mm / °C to about 11×10 -6 mm / mm / °C. Therefore, if the seat liner 502 and the upper retaining ring 526 are in direct contact, a relatively large degree of linear expansion in the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 526 can generate a load on the seat liner 502. By employing the sections 504 and 506 made of a compliant material having a higher CTE, such as PTFE and / or carbon-filled PTFE as described herein, the upper retaining ring 526 can slide axially relative to the seat liner 502 due to the reduced surface friction of the upper sections 504 and 506, thereby relieving the load. In addition, when the upper retaining ring 526 expands radially in response to a temperature change, the upper sections 504 and 506 expand to a greater extent, sufficient to ensure contact of the upper section 504 with both the seat liner 502 and the upper retaining ring 526, the valve body 534, the cover 508, and the blast tube liner 514. In addition, a ceramic material, such as the ceramic material that can be used for the seat liner 502, can be relatively resistant to compressive loads.

[0046] The lower seat flange 528 can include one or more metals, such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steels, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as the austenitic nickel-chromium alloy sold under the trademark INCONEL. The lower seat flange 528 includes a ring that circumferentially surrounds the seat liner 502 and provides a transition from the upper section 504 to the lower section 506.

[0047] The seat liner 502 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by the lower section 506. The lower section 506 interfaces with and / or contacts the top surface of the seat end liner 530. The lower section 506 comprises a compliant material. In various embodiments, the lower section 506 may comprise one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermosetting material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), carbon-filled PTFE, glass-filled expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the lower section 506 may comprise rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the lower section 506 comprises carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the lower section 506 comprises a non-polymeric material, such as a silicone-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260 °C), the silicone-based compound or metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the lower section 506 (compared to the performance of polymeric materials at the same elevated temperature).

[0048] An expansion cavity 560 is formed in the upper section 504 and an expansion cavity 561 is formed in the lower section 506 to respectively allow thermal expansion of the materials of the upper section 504 and the lower section 506 to exceed the available volume during exposure to a high-temperature environment. The expansion cavities 560, 561 may be formed in any suitable manner.

[0049] The lower retaining ring 532 is illustrated as surrounding at least the distal portion of the OD of the seat end liner 530. The lower retaining ring 532 faces the blast tube liner 514 and thus benefits from being constructed of a material that tends to resist erosion and corrosion. Accordingly, the lower retaining ring 532 is disposed coaxially with respect to the seat liner 502 and the seat end liner 530. The lower retaining ring 532 may comprise one or more metals, such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL.

[0050] The seat end liner 530 opens distally into a cavity defined by the sandblast tube liner 514. The sandblast tube liner 514 is surrounded or at least partially surrounded by the sandblast tube 512, which in turn is surrounded or at least partially surrounded by the member 510. The sandblast tube liner 514 is shown to have a minimum inner diameter (ID) equal to or substantially equal to the ID of the farthest distal portion of the ceramic seat end liner 530, where the term "substantially" herein means only + / - 5%. In this regard, little or no radial step is created between the primary ID of 530 and the secondary ID of 514. The sandblast tube liner 514 may also include an expanded diameter such that the mass flow through the seat end liner 530 will transition into the space defined by the sandblast tube liner 514, which may have a larger cross-sectional area than the seat end liner 530. The lower retaining ring 532 may be press-fit around the seat end liner 530 and coaxial therewith. However, as shown, the lower retaining ring 532, the sleeve 531, and the seat end liner 530 are joined via a tapered fit.

[0051] In this configuration, even at the elevated operating temperatures described herein, the upper section 504 and the lower section 506 operate to hold the seat liner 502 and the seat end liner 530 in place. Additionally, the upper section 504 and the lower section 506 provide an assembly stress limiting layer between the seat liner 502 and the retaining components 534, 508, and 514. When the valve seat assembly 400 is exposed to varying temperatures and other types of forces, the compliant nature of the upper section 504 and the lower section 506 limits the loads on the seat liner 502. Further, the upper section 504 and the lower section 506 provide thermal isolation for the various metal parts of the valve seat assembly, thereby reducing heat transfer and potentially reducing thermal stress while reducing weight. The compliance of the upper section 504 and the lower section 506 allows the ceramic seat liner 502 and the seat end liner 530 to be machined to a lower degree of precision than might otherwise be required. In other words, the seat liner 502 and the seat end liner 530 do not need to be polished, ground, sanded, or otherwise machined on the portions of the OD surface that interface with the upper section 504 and the lower section 506 and the lower retaining ring 532. In various embodiments, the ceramic seat liner 502 and / or the seat end liner 530 may be used in a "fired" state, meaning no grinding or sanding is performed after firing.

[0052] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 FIG. shows a valve seat assembly 600 in cross-section. The valve seat assembly 600 may be used in various valve configurations, including a control valve 120 coupled to a high-pressure flash tank 106, etc.

[0053] The valve seat assembly 600 can connect the valve body 634 to the component 610, where the component 610 can include a sandblasting tube or a choke tube, a pipe, or other container configured to receive the flow from the valve body 634. The valve body 634 and the component 610 can include one or more metallic materials, such as various metals and metal alloys known in the industry. The plug can be configured to interface with the seat lining 602 to regulate the fluid flow from the valve body 634 through the valve seat assembly 600 and more specifically through the seat lining 602. The valve seat assembly 600 permits fluid communication between the valve bodies 634, through the annular flange 608 and into the sandblasting tube lining 614.

[0054] In various embodiments, the plug can include a ceramic material. Ceramics are particularly suitable for high erosion applications. The plug can have varying geometries. For example, the geometry can be spherical, parabolic, flat, or any other suitable geometric configuration. A translation axis can also be attached to the plug. In various embodiments, the plug can include one or more metals, such as for example various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, ceramics, such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ), and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL. Nickel-chromium alloys can be well-suited for high temperature environments.

[0055] In various embodiments, the seat lining 602 can include one or more ceramics, such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ). The seat lining 602 is generally cylindrical in geometry, having a constant inner diameter (ID), although in various embodiments, the inner diameter can taper from the axial ends to the axial ends. In various embodiments, the seat lining 602 spans the axial length of the valve seat assembly 600. However, as shown, the seat lining 602 axially terminates at or near the distal portion of the valve seat assembly 600, where the seat lining 602 is coaxially or substantially coaxially aligned with the seat end lining 630. The seat end lining 630 can include a tapered ID and a constant outer diameter (OD). In this regard, the ID of the seat end lining 630 flares distally, meaning that the distal end has an ID greater than the ID of the proximal end that abuts, adjoins, or is otherwise disposed proximal to the seat lining 602.

[0056] The seat liner 602 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by the upper section 604. The upper section 604 interfaces with and / or contacts the OD surface of the seat liner 602. In embodiments where there is no seat end liner 630, the upper section 604 may interface with and / or contact the seat liner 602. The upper section 604 includes a compliant material. In various embodiments, the upper section 604 may include one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermosetting material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), glass-filled PTFE, expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the upper section 204 may include rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the upper section 204 includes carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may include from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the upper section 604 includes a non-polymeric material, such as a silicone-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260 °C), a silicone-based compound or a metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the upper section 604 (compared to the performance of a polymeric material at the same elevated temperature).

[0057] The upper retaining ring 626 is illustrated as surrounding the proximal portion of the OD of the upper section 604, which in turn surrounds the seat liner 602. The upper retaining ring 626 faces the valve body 634 and thus benefits from being constructed of a material that tends to resist erosion and corrosion. Accordingly, the upper retaining ring 626 is disposed coaxially with respect to the seat liner 602. Passing through the upper section 604 is a bolt 616, which is seated in the upper retaining ring 626. The upper retaining ring 626 may include one or more metals, such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as an austenitic nickel-chromium alloy sold under the trademark INCONEL.

[0058] In various embodiments, since the seat liner 602 comprises a ceramic material and the valve body 634 and the member 610 comprise a metallic material, the different coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) associated with these materials should be considered because the operating temperatures encountered can be substantially higher than room temperature and can approach 100 °C to 250 °C or higher. In various embodiments, the ceramic material of the seat liner 602 comprises a different coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) than the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 626. Thus, during operation, the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 626 can linearly expand at a different rate and magnitude than the ceramic material of the seat liner 602. Generally speaking, metals have a higher coefficient of thermal expansion than ceramics, resulting in a difference in the overall expansion between the seat liner 602 (relatively little linear expansion) and the upper retaining ring 626 (relatively large linear expansion). For example, the coefficient of thermal expansion of an INCONEL alloy can be in the range of about 13*10 - 6 mm / mm / °C to about 16* 10-6 mm / mm / °C, and the coefficient of thermal expansion of a fine ceramic can be in the range of about 2*10 -6 mm / mm / °C to about 11*10 -6 mm / mm / °C. Thus, if the seat liner 602 and the upper retaining ring 626 are in direct contact, the greater degree of linear expansion in the metallic material of the upper retaining ring 626 can create a load on the seat liner 602. By employing the upper section 604 made of a compliant material having a higher CTE (such as PTFE and / or carbon-filled PTFE as described herein), the upper retaining ring 626 can slide axially relative to the seat liner 602 due to the reduced surface friction of the upper section 604, thereby relieving the axial load. Additionally, when the upper retaining ring 626 expands radially in response to a temperature change, the upper section 604 expands to a greater extent, sufficient to ensure contact of the upper section 604 with both the seat liner 602 and the upper retaining ring 626. Additionally, ceramic materials, such as the ceramic material that can be used for the seat liner 602, can be relatively resistant to compressive loads.

[0059] An expansion cavity 660 is formed in the upper section 604, and an expansion cavity 661 is formed in the lower section 606 to respectively allow the thermal expansion of the materials of the upper section 604 and the lower section 606 to exceed the available volume during exposure to a high-temperature environment. The expansion cavities 660, 661 can be formed in any suitable manner.

[0060] When the bolts 624, 616 pass through the upper section 604, the bolt retaining rings 650 retain the bolts 624, 616. The bolts 624, 616 are circumferentially arranged around the upper section 604.

[0061] The annular flange 608 may comprise one or more metals such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steels, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL. The annular flange 608 comprises a ring that circumferentially surrounds the seat liner 602 and provides a transition from the upper section 604 to the lower section 606.

[0062] For purposes of illustration Figure 8 , an annular flange 608 is depicted. Holes 806 (e.g., 806-1, 806-2, etc.) are circumferentially disposed about the annular flange 608. One or more of the holes 806 may include a “keyhole” geometry. In other words, the hole 806-2 includes a bolt receiving portion 802 and a circumferential slot portion 804. In this manner, bolts 624, 616 may be set to pass through the circumferential slot portion 804 and rotated such that the heads of the bolts 624, 616 are at least partially aligned with the bolt receiving portion 802. The bolts 624, 616 may then be secured. By using a large annular flange 608, in addition to being able to use larger bolts that may provide greater durability, a reduction in the number of parts is achieved.

[0063] The seat liner 602 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by the lower section 606. The lower section 606 interfaces with and / or contacts the OD surface of the seat liner 602. The lower section 606 comprises a compliant material. In various embodiments, the lower section 606 may comprise one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermoset material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), carbon-filled PTFE, glass-filled PTFE, expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the lower section 606 may comprise rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the lower section 606 comprises carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may comprise PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the lower section 606 comprises a non-polymeric material such as a silicone-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260° C.), a silicone-based compound or a metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the lower section 606 (compared to the performance of a polymeric material at the same elevated temperature).

[0064] The lower retaining ring 632 is illustrated as surrounding at least the distal portion of the OD of the seat end liner 630. The lower retaining ring 632 faces the member 610 and thus benefits from being constructed of a material that tends to resist erosion and corrosion. Accordingly, the lower retaining ring 632 is disposed coaxially with respect to the seat liner 602 and the seat end liner end. Passing through the annular flange 608 are bolts 622 that are seated in the lower retaining ring 632. The lower retaining ring 632 is arranged, for example, to prevent linear expansion of the lower section 606. Additionally, the lower retaining ring 632 may include one or more cavities that receive the expansion of the lower section 606 at temperatures above room temperature. The lower retaining ring 632 may include one or more metals such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steels, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys such as the austenitic nickel-chromium alloy sold under the trademark INCONEL.

[0065] The seat end liner 630 opens distally into a cavity defined by the blast tube liner 614. The blast tube liner 614 is surrounded or at least partially surrounded by the blast tube 612, which in turn is surrounded or at least partially surrounded by the member 610. The blast tube liner 614 is shown as having an inner diameter (ID) greater than that of the seat end liner 630 and the lower retaining ring 632. In this regard, there is a radial step that is created such that the mass flow through the seat end liner 630 will transition to the space defined by the blast tube liner 614, which may have a larger cross-sectional area than the seat end liner 630. The seat end liner 630 may be press-fit within the lower retaining ring 632 and coaxial therewith.

[0066] In this configuration, the upper section 604 and the lower section 606 operate to hold the seat liner 602 in place, even at the elevated operating temperatures described herein. Additionally, the upper section 604 and the lower section 606 provide an assembly stress limiting layer between the seat liner 602, the valve body 634, the annular flange 608, and the blast tube liner 614, as well as the retaining components 626 and 632. When the valve seat assembly 600 is exposed to varying temperatures and other types of forces, the compliant nature of the upper section 604 and the lower section 606 limits the loads on the seat liner 602. Additionally, the upper section 604 and the lower section 606 provide thermal isolation between the various metal parts of the valve seat liner 602, thereby reducing heat transfer and potentially reducing thermal stress while reducing weight. The compliance of the upper section 604 and the lower section 606 allows the ceramic seat liner 602 and the seat end liner 630 to be machined to a lower degree of precision than might otherwise be required. In other words, the seat liner 602 does not need to be polished or ground on the portion of the OD surface that interfaces with the sections 604 and 606. In various embodiments, the ceramic seat liner 602 and / or the seat end liner 630 may be used in a "fired" state, meaning that no or only minimal grinding or sanding is performed after firing.

[0067] Reference Figure 9 、 Figure 10A and Figure 10B illustrate the valve seat assembly 900 in an exploded view and a cross-section after assembly. For convenience, the axial-radial-circumferential (A-R-C) axes are shown in this figure and other figures. The valve seat assembly 900 can be used in various valve configurations, including a control valve 120 coupled to a flash tank 106, etc.

[0068] The valve seat assembly 900 can connect the valve body to a sandblast pipe or choke pipe, a pipeline, or other containers configured to receive the flow from the valve body. The valve body and the sandblast pipe, choke pipe, or pipeline can include one or more metallic materials, such as various metals and metal alloys known in the industry. The plug can be configured to interface with the seat liner 902 to regulate the fluid flow from the valve body through the valve seat assembly 900 and more specifically through the seat liner 902. The valve seat assembly 900 allows fluid communication between the valve bodies 234 and fluid communication into the sandblast pipe, choke pipe, or pipeline.

[0069] In various embodiments, the plug can include a ceramic material. Ceramics are particularly suitable for high erosion applications. The plug can have varying geometries. For example, the geometry can be spherical, parabolic, flat, or any other suitable geometric configuration. There can also be a translation axis coupled to the plug. In various embodiments, the plug can include one or more metals, such as for example various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, ceramics such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ), and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL. Nickel-chromium alloys can be well-suited for high temperature environments.

[0070] In various embodiments, the seat liner 902 can include one or more ceramics, such as silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ). The seat liner 902 is generally cylindrical in geometry, having a constant inner diameter (ID), although in various embodiments, the inner diameter can taper gradually from the axial end to the axial end. In various embodiments, the seat liner 902 spans the axial length of the valve seat assembly 900. However, as shown, the seat liner 902 axially terminates at or near the distal portion of the valve seat assembly 900, where the seat liner 902 is coaxially or substantially coaxially aligned with the end ring 918.

[0071] The seat lining 902 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by an upper section seat lining housing 904. The seat lining housing 904 is disposed coaxially or substantially coaxially with the seat lining 902. The seat lining housing 904 may include one or more metals, such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL. In various embodiments, the seat lining housing 904 is press-fit or interference-fit with the seat lining 902. In this regard, the seat lining housing 904 may be heated and allowed to expand, and then disposed coaxially with the seat lining 902. Upon cooling, the seat lining housing 904 may tightly fit to the seat lining 902 and may apply a radial compressive force to the seat lining 902. Temporarily referring to Figure 10A , the seat lining housing 904 has a radial step 1006. The radial step 1006 is a region where the radial thickness increases at one end of the seat lining housing 904. The radial step 1006 interacts with the radial extension 1004 of the end collar 908 to prevent the seat lining housing 904 from axially moving along the positive A axis. In this regard, the interaction between the radial step 1006 and the radial extension 1004 axially fixes the seat lining housing 904 and prevents it from moving in the positive A direction. The seat lining housing 904 and the seat lining 902 may be collectively referred to as the seat lining assembly 906.

[0072] The end collar 908 is disposed coaxially or substantially coaxially with the seat lining assembly 906. The end collar is configured to be flush or substantially flush with the seat lining assembly 906. In this regard, when in the assembled state, the end portions of the end collar 908 and the seat lining assembly 906 may be disposed in the same plane or substantially the same plane. The end collar 908 may include one or more metals, such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL.

[0073] The seat liner assembly 906 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by the upper section 910. The upper section 910 interfaces with and / or contacts the OD surface of the seat liner assembly 906. The upper section 910 includes a compliant material. In various embodiments, the upper section 910 may include one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermosetting material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), glass-filled PTFE, expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the upper section 910 may include rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the upper section 910 includes carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may include from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the upper section 910 includes a non-polymeric material, such as a silicone-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260 °C), the silicone-based compound or metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the upper section 910 (compared to the performance of polymeric materials at the same elevated temperature).

[0074] The upper retaining ring 912 surrounds a portion of the OD of the seat liner assembly 906. The upper retaining ring 912 is disposed coaxially or substantially coaxially with respect to the seat liner assembly 906. In various embodiments, the upper retaining ring 912 has an inner diameter less than that of the upper section 910 such that the upper retaining ring 912 contacts the OD of the seat liner housing 904. In various embodiments, the upper retaining ring 912 has an outer diameter greater than that of the upper section 910 such that the upper retaining ring 912 contacts the OD of the seat liner housing 904. The upper retaining ring 912 may include one or more metals, such as, for example, various steel alloys, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloys, and nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys, such as austenitic nickel-chromium alloys sold under the trademark INCONEL.

[0075] The seat lining assembly 906 is circumferentially at least partially surrounded by the lower section 916. The lower section 916 interfaces with and / or contacts the OD surface of the seat lining assembly 906. The lower section 916 includes a compliant material. In various embodiments, the lower section 916 may include one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermosetting material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), glass-filled PTFE, expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the lower section 916 may include rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the lower section 916 includes carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may include from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the lower section 916 includes a non-polymeric material, such as a silicone-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260 °C), a silicone-based compound or a metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the lower section 916 (compared to the performance of a polymeric material at the same elevated temperature).

[0076] Referring temporarily Figure 10A and Figure 10B , the lower section 916 includes a radial cut 1002. The radial cut 1002 includes a region of reduced radius that is aligned or substantially axially aligned with the radial insert 1002 of the seat lining housing 904, and together they form a circumferential channel 1012. The radial insert 1002 of the seat lining housing 904 includes a region of reduced radial thickness of the seat lining housing 904. In this regard, an upper retaining ring 912 is disposed distally of the upper section 910, and an end ring 918 is disposed distally of the upper retaining ring 912.

[0077] The locking ring 914 includes a locking ring portion 914a and a locking ring portion 914b. The locking ring portion 914a and the locking ring portion 914b circumferentially surround the OD of the seat lining housing 904 and are configured to be disposed in the circumferential channel 1012. In response to exposure to an operating temperature above room temperature, the lower section 916 radially expands, applying a radial compressive force on the seat lining housing 904.

[0078] The end ring 918 is configured to at least partially circumferentially surround the lower section 916. The end ring 918 includes a compliant material. In various embodiments, the end ring 918 may include one or more of a thermoplastic material and / or a thermosetting material and / or a polymeric material. Compliant materials include, for example, rubber, silicone, synthetic rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), glass-filled PTFE, expanded PTFE, and other similar materials. For example, the end ring 918 may include rigid or semi-rigid PTFE. In various embodiments, the end ring 918 includes carbon-filled PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include a mixture of PTFE and carbon in the form of, for example, carbon powder. Carbon-filled PTFE may include from 0.2% to 40% by weight of carbon powder, with the balance by weight being PTFE. Carbon-filled PTFE may include PTFE and graphite. In various embodiments, the lower section 916 includes a non-polymeric material, such as a silicon-based compound or a metallic material. For example, at elevated temperatures (such as, for example, above 260 °C), a silicon-based compound or a metallic material may have a higher CTE, which may improve the performance of the end ring 918 (compared to the performance of a polymeric material at the same elevated temperature).

[0079] In this manner, the valve seat assembly 900 can be assembled without the use of bolts. Additionally, the valve seat assembly can be assembled by stacking components held together by a locking ring.

[0080] In various embodiments, the valve seat assembly includes: a seat liner assembly including a seat liner coaxially disposed within a seat liner housing; an upper retaining ring disposed distally of an upper section; a lower section disposed distally of the upper retaining ring, the lower section including a radial notch, and the seat liner housing including a radial insert, the radial insert and the radial notch forming a circumferential channel. In various embodiments, the valve seat assembly further includes a locking ring disposed at least partially within the circumferential channel. In various embodiments, within the valve seat assembly, the upper retaining ring, the upper section, and the lower section are coaxial. In various embodiments, the valve seat assembly further includes an end collar circumferentially disposed about the seat liner assembly. In various embodiments, within the valve seat assembly, the end collar includes a radial extension, and the seat liner housing includes a radial step. In various embodiments, within the valve seat assembly, the radial extension includes a portion of the end collar having a diameter reduced relative to a proximal portion of the end collar, and wherein the radial extension includes a portion of the seat liner housing having an outer diameter greater relative to a distal portion of the seat liner housing. In various embodiments, within the valve seat assembly, wherein the end collar and the upper retaining ring include metal. In various embodiments, within the valve seat assembly, the lower section and the upper section include a compliant material. In various embodiments, within the valve seat assembly, the seat liner includes a ceramic material. In various embodiments, within the valve seat assembly, the end collar and a proximal end of the valve seat housing assembly are coplanar. In various embodiments, within the valve seat assembly, the locking ring includes a first locking ring portion and a second locking ring portion, the first locking ring portion being separated from the second locking ring portion and spanning 180 degrees about the seat liner housing.

[0081] This disclosure has described benefits and other advantages with respect to specific embodiments. Additionally, the connecting lines shown in the various figures included herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in an actual system. However, the benefits, advantages, and any element that causes any benefit or advantage to occur or become more pronounced should not be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or element of this disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of this disclosure is defined only by the appended claims, in which, unless expressly so stated, the recitation of an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" but rather "one or more." Further, when a phrase such as "at least one of A, B, or C" is used in the claims, it is intended to be interpreted to mean that A may exist alone in an embodiment, B may exist alone in an embodiment, C may exist alone in an embodiment, or any combination of elements A, B, and C may exist in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C.

[0082] This disclosure provides systems, methods, and devices. In the detailed description herein, references to "various embodiments," "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "exemplary embodiments," etc., indicate that the described embodiments may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but each embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Additionally, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it should be understood that, whether or not explicitly described, making such feature, structure, or characteristic operative in connection with other embodiments is within the knowledge of those of ordinary skill in the art. After reading the description, those of skill in the relevant art will be able to implement this disclosure in alternative embodiments.

[0083] Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in this disclosure is dedicated to the public, whether or not the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. An element is not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited in the claims using the phrase "means for." As used herein, the term "comprises / comprising" or any other variation thereof is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

Claims

1. A valve seat assembly, the valve seat assembly comprising: a ceramic seat lining, the ceramic seat lining being coaxially disposed with a ceramic seat end lining; an upper section, the upper section surrounding a first outer diameter surface portion of the ceramic seat lining, the upper section being provided together with the ceramic seat lining; and a lower section, the lower section surrounding a second outer diameter surface portion of the ceramic seat lining, the first outer diameter surface portion being proximal to the second outer diameter surface portion.

2. The valve seat assembly according to claim 1, the valve seat assembly further comprising an upper retaining ring surrounding the first outer diameter surface portion of the upper section, wherein the upper retaining ring is disposed radially outside the ceramic seat lining and the upper section.

3. The valve seat assembly according to claim 2, wherein the upper section comprises at least one of PTFE and carbon-filled PTFE.

4. The valve seat assembly according to claim 3, wherein the ceramic seat lining comprises at least one of silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B 4 C), tungsten carbide (WC), and zirconia (ZrO 2 ).

5. The valve seat assembly according to claim 4, wherein the upper retaining ring comprises titanium.

6. The valve seat assembly according to claim 4, wherein a lower retaining ring surrounds and contacts an outer diameter of the ceramic seat end lining.

7. The valve seat assembly according to claim 6, wherein an inner diameter of the ceramic seat end lining increases in a distal direction.

8. The valve seat assembly according to claim 7, the valve seat assembly further comprising a bolt disposed axially with respect to the ceramic seat lining, the bolt passing through the upper section and the lower section, wherein the bolt is coupled to the upper retaining ring.

9. The valve seat assembly according to claim 8, the valve seat assembly further comprising a bolt retaining ring disposed distal to the upper retaining ring, the bolt passing through the bolt retaining ring.

10. The valve seat assembly according to claim 9, the valve seat assembly further comprising an upper seat flange disposed distal to the upper retaining ring.

11. The valve seat assembly according to claim 10, the valve seat assembly further comprising a lower seat flange disposed distal to the upper retaining ring and proximal to the lower retaining ring.

12. The valve seat assembly according to claim 11, the valve seat assembly further comprising a sandblasting tube lining.

13. The valve seat assembly according to claim 12, wherein the sandblasting tube lining is disposed distal to the ceramic seat end lining, wherein the sandblasting tube lining has a proximal radial diameter greater than a most distal diameter of the ceramic seat end lining.

14. The valve seat assembly according to claim 13, wherein a sandblasting tube at least partially surrounds an outer diameter surface of the sandblasting tube lining.

15. The valve seat assembly according to claim 7, the valve seat assembly further comprising a sandblasting tube lining and a ceramic sandblasting tube lining, wherein the sandblasting tube lining is disposed distal to the ceramic seat end lining, wherein the ceramic sandblasting tube lining has a proximal radial diameter equal to a most distal diameter of the ceramic seat end lining.

16. A method of manufacturing a valve seat assembly, the method comprising: coaxially disposing a ceramic seat lining with a ceramic seat end lining; coupling an upper section surrounding a first outer diameter surface portion of the ceramic seat lining, the upper section being provided together with the ceramic seat lining; and Connect the lower section that surrounds the second outer diameter surface portion of the ceramic seat liner, with the first outer diameter surface portion being proximal to the second outer diameter surface portion.

17. The manufacturing method according to claim 16, further comprising disposing an upper retaining ring around the first outer diameter surface portion of the upper section, wherein the upper retaining ring is disposed radially outside the ceramic seat liner and the upper section.

18. The manufacturing method according to claim 17, further comprising axially disposing bolts relative to the ceramic seat liner, the bolts passing through the upper section and the lower section.

19. The manufacturing method according to claim 18, further comprising coupling the bolts to the upper retaining ring.

20. The manufacturing method according to claim 17, further comprising coupling a sandblasting tube liner distally to the ceramic seat end liner.

21. A valve seat assembly, the valve seat assembly comprising: a seat liner assembly including a seat liner coaxially disposed within a seat liner housing; an upper retaining ring disposed distally to an upper section; a lower section disposed distally to the upper retaining ring, the lower section including a radial cutout, and the seat liner housing including a radial insert, the radial insert and the radial cutout forming a circumferential channel.

22. The valve seat assembly according to claim 21, further comprising a locking ring disposed at least partially within the circumferential channel.

23. The valve seat assembly according to claim 22, wherein the upper retaining ring, the upper section, and the lower section are coaxial.

24. The valve seat assembly according to claim 23, further comprising an end collar circumferentially disposed around the seat liner assembly.

25. The valve seat assembly according to claim 24, wherein the end collar includes a radial extension, and the seat liner housing includes a radial step.

26. The valve seat assembly according to claim 25, wherein the radial extension includes a portion of the end collar having a diameter reduced relative to the proximal portion of the end collar, and wherein the radial extension includes a portion of the seat liner housing having an outer diameter greater than that of the distal portion of the seat liner housing.

27. The valve seat assembly according to claim 26, wherein the end collar and the upper retaining ring include metal.

28. The valve seat assembly according to claim 27, wherein the lower section and the upper section include a compliant material.

29. The valve seat assembly according to claim 28, wherein the seat liner includes a ceramic material.

30. The valve seat assembly according to claim 29, wherein the proximal ends of the end collar and the seat housing assembly are coplanar.

31. The valve seat assembly according to claim 30, wherein the locking ring includes a first locking ring portion and a second locking ring portion, the first locking ring portion being separated from the second locking ring portion and spanning 180 degrees around the seat liner housing.

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