Three-piece type side-mounted ball valve with valve seat capable of being disassembled and assembled on line
By adopting a split structure and spring preload adjustment system, combined with a four-open-ring and L-shaped fixed-ring design, the ball valve seat can be disassembled and installed online, solving the problems of complex maintenance and long downtime of traditional ball valves, improving maintenance efficiency and sealing performance, and making it suitable for chemical and energy industries.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ZHEJIANG OFILM PETROLEUM EQUIP CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-17
AI Technical Summary
Traditional ball valves require disassembling the entire valve or interrupting pipeline operation when maintaining or replacing the valve seat, resulting in long downtime and high maintenance costs. Furthermore, existing three-piece ball valves lack online maintenance functions and cannot meet the needs of industrial scenarios with high process stability requirements.
It adopts a split structure, spring preloaded valve seat and four-ring locking mechanism. The four-ring locking mechanism and L-shaped fixed ring are designed to enable online quick replacement of valve seat. Combined with the spring preload adjustment system, it ensures sealing performance and structural stability.
It significantly reduces downtime, lowers maintenance costs, improves sealing performance and ease of operation, and extends valve life, making it suitable for continuous production scenarios such as chemical and energy industries.
Smart Images

Figure CN224135220U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to a three-piece side-mounted ball valve with an online detachable valve seat. Background Technology
[0002] Traditional ball valves require disassembling the entire valve or interrupting pipeline operation for maintenance or seat replacement, resulting in long downtime, high maintenance costs, and complex operation. While existing three-piece ball valves have a split-type structure, they lack online maintenance capabilities, and seat replacement still requires disassembling the end cover or valve body, which cannot meet the needs of industrial scenarios with high process stability requirements. Utility Model Content
[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, this utility model provides a three-piece side-mounted ball valve with an online detachable valve seat. Through its split structure, spring-preloaded valve seat, and four-ring locking mechanism, it enables rapid valve seat replacement without disassembling the valve, significantly improving maintenance efficiency and reducing downtime costs.
[0004] The technical solution adopted in this utility model is:
[0005] A three-piece side-mounted ball valve with online detachable valve seats includes a left end cover, a valve body, and a right end cover. The left and right end covers are fixed to the valve body by bolts. Valve seat mechanisms are provided on both the left and right sides of the valve body. Each valve seat mechanism includes a valve seat, a push plate, and a four-ring arranged sequentially on the outer side of the valve seat. Multiple spring holes are provided on the outer side of the valve seat, and springs are matched in the spring holes. The left and right end covers have grooves that match the four-ring, and the four-ring is set in the groove. A fixing ring is provided on the inner ring of the four-ring. An adjustment mechanism for pushing the push plate to move axially is provided on the four-ring and the fixing ring. Both the left and right end covers have inspection ports on their tops, and flange covers are matched at the inspection ports.
[0006] Preferably, the cross-section of the fixing ring is L-shaped.
[0007] Preferably, the adjustment mechanism includes multiple nuts fixed to the outside of the fixed ring, and adjusting bolts matched and disposed inside the nuts. The front end of the adjusting bolt passes through the fixed ring and the four-open ring in sequence and then abuts against the push plate.
[0008] This utility model solves the pain points of traditional ball valves, such as complex maintenance, long downtime, and insufficient sealing performance, through a split structure, online valve seat disassembly and assembly mechanism, spring preload adjustment system, and L-shaped fixing ring design. Its innovation lies in structural optimization and functional integration. The technical effect has been verified by practical application and has significant economic benefits and industrial promotion value.
[0009] The innovative points of this utility model are:
[0010] 1. Split-type modular structure design:
[0011] The valve adopts a three-part split structure consisting of a left end cover, a valve body, and a right end cover, which are fixed together by high-strength bolts. This design allows for quick disassembly and assembly, and each module can be maintained or replaced independently.
[0012] Compared with existing technologies:
[0013] While existing three-piece ball valves are split-type, they lack integration with online maintenance functions. This solution optimizes the disassembly and assembly process through a split structure, while ensuring overall stability.
[0014] 2. Online valve seat disassembly and assembly mechanism:
[0015] The four-opening ring and the fixed ring are matched: a four-opening ring is set on the outside of the valve seat, which is embedded in the groove of the valve body and locked by the fixed ring with an L-shaped cross section to prevent the four-opening ring from falling off;
[0016] Inspection port and flange cover: An inspection port is provided on the top of the end cover, which covers the flange cover. During maintenance, the valve seat can be removed simply by loosening the flange cover bolts and slightly pulling open the four-ring, without disassembling the valve or interrupting the pipeline operation.
[0017] Compared with existing technologies: traditional valve seat replacement requires disassembling the end cover or valve body, while this solution achieves online valve seat replacement for the first time through four-loop locking and inspection port design;
[0018] 3. Spring preload and adjustable sealing mechanism:
[0019] Multiple spring holes are opened on the outside of the valve seat, and the built-in spring provides preload to ensure sealing performance. The spring compression is dynamically controlled by pushing the push plate axially through the adjusting bolt to adapt to the sealing requirements under different working conditions.
[0020] Compared with existing technologies: existing valve seat seals mostly rely on fixed preload or complex hydraulic adjustment. This solution simplifies operation and improves adaptability by using mechanical spring preload and manual adjustment.
[0021] 4. L-shaped retaining ring and slot fit together:
[0022] The fixing ring adopts an L-shaped cross-section design and is embedded in the inner ring of the four open rings to form a double locking mechanism to prevent the four open rings from accidentally falling off under high pressure or vibration.
[0023] Compared with existing technologies: traditional fixing rings are mostly planar structures, which are prone to loosening due to external forces, while the L-shaped design significantly improves structural stability.
[0024] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:
[0025] 1. Significantly reduces downtime:
[0026] With the online valve seat removal and installation function, maintenance can be performed without disassembling valves or interrupting pipeline operation, reducing downtime by more than 70%, which is especially suitable for continuous production scenarios such as chemical and energy industries.
[0027] 2. Reduce maintenance costs:
[0028] The modular design allows for individual replacement of worn valve seats, avoiding the scrapping of the entire valve and reducing maintenance costs by approximately 50%. At the same time, it simplifies the operation process, reduces manual intervention, and further saves labor costs.
[0029] 3. Improve sealing performance and adaptability:
[0030] The valve seat dynamically controls the sealing force through adjusting bolts, ensuring stable sealing under different temperature and pressure conditions, with a leakage rate of less than 0.01%.
[0031] 4. Enhance ease of operation and safety:
[0032] The design of the four-ring and the fixed ring simplifies the disassembly and assembly steps. Operators only need conventional tools to complete the maintenance, and the operation time is reduced to within 30 minutes (traditionally it takes more than 2 hours). The L-shaped fixed ring effectively prevents the four-ring from falling off, reducing the safety risks during the maintenance process.
[0033] 5. Extend the overall lifespan of the valve:
[0034] The split structure and replaceable valve seat design prevent local wear from causing overall valve failure, extending valve service life by 40%-60% and significantly improving resource utilization. Attached Figure Description
[0035] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the present invention;
[0036] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Enlarged view of part A in the image. Detailed Implementation
[0037] It should be noted that the following detailed descriptions are illustrative and intended to provide further explanation of this application. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains.
[0038] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.
[0039] Furthermore, in the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.
[0040] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise expressly defined.
[0041] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.
[0042] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0043] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.
[0044] like Figure 1-2As shown, a three-piece side-mounted ball valve with online detachable valve seats includes a left end cover 1, a valve body 2, and a right end cover 3. The left end cover 1 and the right end cover 3 are fixed to the valve body 2 by bolts. Valve seat mechanisms are provided on both the left and right sides of the valve body 2. The valve seat mechanism includes a valve seat 4, and a push plate 5 and a four-ring 6 arranged sequentially on the outer side of the valve seat 4. Multiple spring holes 7 are provided on the outer side of the valve seat 4, and springs 8 are matched in the spring holes 7. The left end cover 1 and the right end cover 3 are provided with slots 9 that match the four-ring 6. The four-ring 6 is set in the slots 9. A fixing ring 10 is provided on the inner ring of the four-ring 6. An adjustment mechanism for pushing the push plate 5 to move axially is provided on the four-ring 6 and the fixing ring 10. The top of the left end cover 1 and the right end cover 3 are provided with inspection ports 11, and flange covers 12 are matched at the inspection ports 11.
[0045] The cross-section of the fixing ring 10 is L-shaped.
[0046] The adjustment mechanism includes multiple nuts 13 fixed to the outside of the fixed ring 10, the nuts 13 can be welded to the fixed ring 10, and an adjusting bolt 14 matched and disposed inside the nuts 13. The front end of the adjusting bolt 14 passes through the fixed ring 10 and the four-open ring 6 in sequence and then abuts against the push plate 5.
[0047] 1. Basic structure and operating mechanism of valves:
[0048] This ball valve consists of three parts: a left end cover, a valve body, and a right end cover, all connected as a whole by high-strength bolts. The ball is installed inside the valve body, and valve seat mechanisms are symmetrically arranged on both sides. During normal operation, the ball controls the flow or cut off of the medium by rotating the valve stem. The core function of the valve seat mechanism is to ensure the sealing between the ball and the valve seat. Its key components include:
[0049] Valve seat: Embedded in the inner cavity of the end cap, directly contacting the surface of the ball;
[0050] Spring assembly: Multiple spring holes are opened on the outside of the valve seat, and the built-in spring provides preload force to push the valve seat tightly against the ball;
[0051] Push plate: Located on the outside of the valve seat, its axial movement is controlled by adjusting bolts to adjust the spring compression.
[0052] Four-ring and fixed ring: The four-ring is embedded in the groove of the valve body, and the L-shaped fixed ring locks the inner ring of the four-ring to prevent it from falling off.
[0053] 2. Dynamic adjustment of sealing performance:
[0054] Spring preload mechanism: The spring generates elastic force under compression, which is transmitted to the valve seat through the push plate to ensure that the valve seat and the ball fit tightly together;
[0055] The function of the adjusting bolt: The adjusting bolt passes through the fixed ring and the four-opening ring, and its front end contacts the push plate. Rotating the adjusting bolt can push the push plate to move axially, changing the spring compression, thereby dynamically adjusting the sealing force.
[0056] For example:
[0057] To increase sealing force: Rotate the adjusting bolt clockwise to push the push plate towards the valve seat, compressing the spring. When the push plate abuts against the valve seat, the maximum sealing force is achieved.
[0058] Reduce sealing force: Rotate the adjusting bolt counterclockwise to release the spring compression.
[0059] 3. Online valve seat disassembly and assembly procedure:
[0060] When the valve seat needs to be replaced or repaired, the operating procedure is as follows:
[0061] Loosen the flange cover: Remove the flange cover bolts at the access port, open the flange cover, and expose the four opening rings and retaining rings;
[0062] To release the four-ring lock: Loosen the adjusting bolt and slightly pull the fixing ring and the four-ring lock outwards;
[0063] Remove the valve seat: After removing the retaining ring and the four-opening ring, directly remove the old valve seat and the matching spring;
[0064] Install the new valve seat: Place the new valve seat into the end cover cavity, and reset the four-ring, the retaining ring, and the adjusting bolt;
[0065] Reset and seal adjustment: Reinstall the flange cover and tighten the bolts. Adjust the bolts to calibrate the spring preload and ensure sealing performance.
[0066] Key advantage: The entire process does not require disassembling valves or interrupting pipeline operation, and takes only 30 minutes (compared to more than 2 hours using traditional methods).
[0067] 4. Structural stability assurance:
[0068] The four-ring and L-shaped fixed ring are matched: After the four-ring is inserted into the valve body groove, the L-shaped fixed ring is inserted into its inner ring to form a double lock, which can effectively prevent the four-ring from accidentally coming out even under high vibration or high pressure conditions.
[0069] The strength of the split structure: the left end cover, valve body and right end cover are connected by high-strength bolts to ensure overall rigidity, while allowing for local modular maintenance.
[0070] 5. Adaptability and safety:
[0071] Multi-condition adaptability: The sealing force can be dynamically adjusted by adjusting the bolts to adapt to different temperatures, pressures and media characteristics (such as corrosive fluids).
[0072] Anti-drop design: The L-shaped retaining ring and the slot work together to avoid the risk of parts falling off during maintenance;
[0073] Standardized operation: Maintenance can be completed with only common tools (such as wrenches and screwdrivers), reducing the operational threshold.
[0074] Finally, it should be noted that the above examples are merely specific embodiments of this utility model. Obviously, this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments and can have many variations. All variations that can be directly derived or conceived by those skilled in the art from the disclosure of this utility model should be considered within the protection scope of this utility model.
Claims
1. A three-piece side-entry ball valve with a detachable valve seat, characterized in that, Includes a left end cap (1), a valve body (2), and a right end cap (3). The left end cap (1) and the right end cap (3) are fixed to the valve body (2) by bolts. The valve body (2) is provided with valve seat mechanisms on both the left and right sides. The valve seat mechanism includes a valve seat (4), and a push plate (5) and a four-ring (6) arranged sequentially on the outside of the valve seat (4). The valve seat (4) has multiple spring holes (7) on its outside. Springs (8) are matched in the spring holes (7). The left end cap (1) is fixed to the valve body (2) by bolts. The cover (1) and the right end cover (3) are provided with slots (9) that match the four-ring (6). The four-ring (6) is set in the slot (9). The inner ring of the four-ring (6) is provided with a fixing ring (10). The four-ring (6) and the fixing ring (10) are provided with an adjustment mechanism to push the push plate (5) to move axially. The top of the left end cover (1) and the right end cover (3) are provided with inspection ports (11). The inspection ports (11) are matched with flange covers (12).
2. A three-piece side-mounted ball valve with an online detachable valve seat as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-section of the fixing ring (10) is L-shaped.
3. The three-piece side-entry ball valve with online removable valve seat according to claim 2, characterized in that, The adjustment mechanism includes multiple nuts (13) fixed on the outside of the fixed ring (10) and an adjusting bolt (14) matched and set in the nuts (13). The front end of the adjusting bolt (14) passes through the fixed ring (10) and the four-open ring (6) in sequence and then abuts against the push plate (5).