Sealing devices, usage, sealing elements, operating components, and methods for high-pressure valves
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2026030336
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-02-28
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-09
Smart Images
Figure 2026145036000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a sealing device for a high-pressure valve, use of the sealing device, a sealing element and an actuation component for the sealing device, and a method for actuating the sealing device. The sealing device comprises an actuation component, a sealing element and a seal seat. The sealing element is movable from an open position to a sealing position by the actuation component. In the sealing position, the actuation component axially presses the sealing element against the seal seat.
Background Art
[0002] Sealing devices for high-pressure valves are known from the prior art. High-pressure valves are used, for example, in piping systems or tank systems for hydrogen-containing fluids. In this case, the sealing device needs to provide a seal against pressures of at least 700 bar to 875 bar. In order to extend the service life of the sealing device, it is important that force transmission with as little loss as possible is achieved between the sealing element and the actuation component in the sealing position. If the sealing element is arranged in an inclined state relative to the actuation component and / or the sealing element is seated in an inclined state on the seal seat, a large amount of force is required to achieve sealing. Furthermore, the resulting wear of the sealing element shortens the service life of the sealing device. Conventional sealing devices address this by rigidly connecting the sealing element to the actuation component. For this reason, the sealing element and the actuation component must comply with strict manufacturing tolerances and assembly tolerances.
Summary of the Invention
Problem to be Solved by the Invention
[0003] The present invention is based on the object of providing a sealing device with improved service life and reduced manufacturing complexity while reducing the required closing force. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide use of the sealing device, a sealing element for the sealing device, an actuation component for the sealing device, and a method for actuating the sealing device. [Means for solving the problem]
[0004] The above problem is solved according to the present invention by the configuration of the feature part of claim 1, that is, in the open position, the sealing element is tiltable relative to the operating component by the contact portion around the tilting portion of the operating component.
[0005] The high-pressure valve can be a switching valve or a control valve. In particular, the high-pressure valve is designed for hydrogen applications, for example, in piping or tank systems for hydrogen-containing fluids. In particular, the sealing device is intended to be set to seal pressures up to at least 700 bar, especially at least 800 bar, preferably at least 875 bar, and / or up to 1050 bar, especially up to 900 bar, especially up to 875 bar, especially up to 750 bar, and preferably up to 700 bar. In particular, the high-pressure valve according to the present invention is also capable of reliably sealing at low pressures, but especially from at least 20 bar. According to a particularly purposeful embodiment, the high-pressure valve is intended to have a nominal operating pressure (NWP) of 700 bar and / or a maximum pressure (MAWP) of 875 bar and / or a maximum test pressure of 1,050 bar, also called the end-of-line pressure (EOL pressure). For this purpose, a test method in accordance with ISO 19887 (Gaseous hydrogen - Fuel system components for hydrogen fuel vehicles) is preferably used.
[0006] In particular, the actuating component is intended to be designed as a piston. According to alternative embodiments, the actuating component can be designed as a push pin or a push rod. It is purposeful if the actuating component is intended to have a rotationally symmetric cross-section in a top view, particularly in an axial top view.
[0007] The sealing element can preferably be positioned only in the open position and the sealed position, and in between these positions. Preferably, the sealing element seals just one seal seat in the sealed position. In particular, the sealing element cannot be positioned in two different sealing positions, for example, different seal seats, and preferably cannot be tilted between two different seal seats.
[0008] In additional or alternative embodiments, the seal element is intended to be rotationally symmetric in a top view, preferably in an axial top view. Preferably, the seal element is intended to be substantially cylindrical. For example, the seal element may have an envelope designed as a cylinder, particularly as a right cylinder. Alternatively, the seal element may be designed as a notched sphere, particularly with respect to a notch larger than a hemisphere. Preferably, the seal element is intended to be integrally formed. According to a purposeful embodiment, the seal element is attached to an actuating component via a retaining component, and is particularly intended to be detachably connected. In particular, the retaining component is intended to have threads, and the actuating component is intended to have mating threads. Preferably, the retaining component is designed as a tightening nut. According to a purposeful embodiment, the retaining component has a retaining housing configured to at least partially accommodate the seal element. In this case, the retaining housing of the retaining component is designed to be positioned behind the center of rotation of the seal element, particularly when viewed axially with respect to the seal seat.
[0009] The sealing element is, in particular, movably mounted to the actuating component in a sealing device, preferably detachably mounted from the actuating component. In particular, the sealing element and the actuating component are different, distinct components of the sealing device. Advantageously, the sealing element and the actuating component are intended to be positioned relative to each other without material bonding, and / or force bonding, and / or shape bonding, and / or force-shape bonding.
[0010] The seal seat is located on a component different from the actuating component. Preferably, the seal seat is located on a component different from the sealing element. In particular, the sealing element cooperates with the seal seat to seal a component different from the actuating component, preferably a component different from both the actuating component and the sealing element. For example, the seal seat can be located on the valve housing of a high-pressure valve. The seal seat can be formed integrally with the valve housing. According to an advantageous embodiment, the diameter of the seal seat is at least 0.2 mm, particularly at least 0.3 mm, especially at least 0.4 mm, preferably at least 0.5 mm. The diameter of the seal seat is particularly up to 80 mm, particularly up to 75 mm, especially up to 60 mm, preferably up to 50 mm.
[0011] In the open position, the sealing device is at least partially open. For example, the sealing device is in the open position after the sealing element and the operating component are connected to each other and positioned relative to the sealing seat. In the open position, the sealing element and the sealing seat are spaced apart from each other. The sealing seat is not sealed in the open position. In the open position, particularly in the open position before the first operation of the sealing device, the sealing element may be positioned obliquely to the operating component.
[0012] In the sealing position, and especially when transitioning from the open position to the sealing position, the actuating component presses the sealing element axially, and especially only axially, toward the sealing seat. For sealing to occur in the sealing position, the sealing element must contact the sealing seat. In particular, it is intended that the actuating component and the sealing element are positioned parallel to each other in the sealing position. Preferably, in the sealing position, the actuating component contacts the contact portion of the sealing element by a tilting portion.
[0013] Preferably, the force of the actuating component acts on the sealing element while the sealing device is moving from the open position to the sealed position. In particular, it is intended that the contact point is the force application point (Kraftanlagepunkt) of the actuating component.
[0014] The sealing element is tiltable in the open position and when transitioning from the open position to the sealed position. In particular, the sealing element is tiltable at least in the partially open position. It is intended that the sealing element is not tiltable, especially in the sealing position. For the sake of purpose, it is intended that the sealing element is axially tiltable about the longitudinal axis of the sealing device. In particular, it is intended that the tilting motion of the sealing element is performed without compression of the sealing element, preferably without axial compression. The sealing element is intended to perform axial motion in addition to tilting motion under the action of the actuating component.
[0015] It is advantageous when the tilting portion, particularly the center of gravity of the tilting portion, lies on the central axis of the actuating component. Furthermore, the contact portion, particularly the center of gravity of the contact portion, can be oriented on the central axis of the seal element. Preferably, at the seal position, the central axis of the seal element coincides with the central axis of the actuating component. In particular, the central axis of the seal element and / or the central axis of the actuating component are intended to coincide with the longitudinal axis of the seal device at the seal position. Alternatively, the central axes of the seal element and / or the central axis of the actuating component and / or the longitudinal axis of the seal device can differ from each other by at least two factors. Preferably, during the tilting motion of the seal element relative to the actuating component, the orientation of the longitudinal axis of the seal element is intended to change with respect to the orientation of the longitudinal axis of the actuating component.
[0016] Preferably, the area of the contact portion, particularly its diameter, is intended to be less than or equal to the diameter of the sealing element, preferably the diameter of the base surface (Basisflaeche) of the sealing element. In particular, the diameter of the contact portion is intended to be at most half the diameter of the opening of the seal seat to be sealed. The area of the contact portion, particularly its diameter, can be substantially the same as the area of the tilting portion, particularly its diameter.
[0017] For practical purposes, the maximum inclination (Schiefstellung) of the seal element in the open position is intended to be a maximum of 50°, particularly a maximum of 45°, and preferably a maximum of 40°. The inclination of the seal element is expressed by the angle between the plane on which the end face of the seal element is positioned and the plane on which the seal seat is positioned. This angle can also be called the inclination angle.
[0018] In particular, sealing devices, especially operating components, have pressure compensation channels. Preferably, the pressure compensation channels are arranged and configured such that they provide pressure compensation between the side of the sealing element where the contact portion is provided and the side of the sealing element facing the seal seat.
[0019] Preferably, the sealing device, and especially the sealing element, has temperature resistance to temperatures of -60°C to +120°C, particularly -50°C to +100°C, preferably -40°C to +85°C.
[0020] In the open position, the seal element can tilt relative to the operating component around the tilting portion of the operating component by contact with it, thereby compensating for the tilt of the seal element during the transition from the open position to the sealed position. This reduces the closing force required for sealing. At the same time, wear due to the tilt of the seal element is reduced, thereby improving the service life of the sealing device. Furthermore, the control accuracy of high-pressure valves equipped with the sealing device according to the present invention is improved. Because the self-aligning seal element has a compensatory effect, larger manufacturing tolerances and joint tolerances can be provided, thereby reducing the complexity of manufacturing. Furthermore, the sealing device according to the present invention allows for the replacement of only the seal element or only the operating component, thereby improving sustainability.
[0021] According to an advantageous development of the present invention, the tilting portion is intended to be positioned on the side of the actuating component facing the direction of the seal seat. Alternatively or additionally, the contact portion of the seal element is intended to face the direction of the actuating component. In particular, in the seal position, the contact portion contacts the tilting portion.
[0022] Advantageously, during the open position and / or tilting motion, the base surface of the sealing element, for example, the axial base surface, is intended to contact the operating component only by the contact portion. The base surface has a contact portion. Preferably, the base surface is intended to be a side surface of the sealing element, for example, the upper side. In particular, the base surface can be formed as a curved surface. The base surface can be defined by a circumferential wall and / or circumferential wall portion.
[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the tilting portion of the operating component is intended to have a bulge, preferably a protruding bulge. Alternatively or additionally, in particular, the contact portion of the sealing element is intended to have a bulge, preferably a protruding bulge. Preferably, the apex of the bulge, for example, the highest point of the base surface having the contact portion, is intended to be located on the central axis of the sealing device at the sealing position. In particular, the contact portion is intended to be located at the centroid of the base surface. In particular, the base surface is intended to be formed point-symmetric with respect to the apex of the bulge. Advantageously, the bulge has a curved shape. For example, the bulge is formed at least partially as a cone and / or frustum and / or sphere and / or paraboloid and / or spherical notch, for example, a hemisphere. Advantageously, the entire sealing element is bulging, and is particularly formed in a spherical notch shape.
[0024] To facilitate the tilting motion, the seal element is intended to be guided by a bulge during the tilting motion. During the tilting motion, the contact portion moves around the tilting portion. For example, the contact portion performs a pivoting motion around the tilting portion. Preferably, the apex of the bulge is the pivot point of the tilting motion of the seal element. The relative motion between the seal element and the actuating component can be defined by the bulge.
[0025] According to another embodiment of the seal device, the seal element has a clamp portion. Preferably, the clamp portion is formed circumferentially on the seal element. In particular, the clamp portion has a closed contour, preferably a contour closed in the circumferential direction. The clamp portion can be configured as a flat surface. Expediently, it is further contemplated that the clamp portion of the sealing element cooperates with a mating clamp portion of the actuation component. Alternatively or additionally, a mating clamp portion that cooperates with the clamp portion of the sealing element can be provided on the holding component. It is expedient if the clamp portion and the mating clamp portion abut against each other at least in the sealed position, in particular in the sealed position and the open position. Preferably, the mating clamp portion is formed circumferentially on the actuation component and / or the holding component. In particular, the mating clamp portion has a closed contour, preferably a contour closed in the circumferential direction. The mating clamp portion can be configured as a flat surface. In particular, when the holding component is present, it is preferably contemplated that the thread of the holding component cooperates with the mating thread of the actuation component, thereby generating a clamping action between the actuation component and the seal element.
[0026] A frictional force acts between the clamp portion and the mating clamp portion at least during the tilting movement of the seal element. In particular, it is contemplated that the clamp portion and the mating clamp portion form an interference fit (Uebermasspassung). In particular, at least in the sealed position, preferably in the sealed position and in an assembled state, there is an interference fit, also referred to as a press fit, between the seal element and the actuation component. The assembled state refers to a state where the seal element is attached to the actuation component, and when the holding component is present, the holding component is attached to the seal element.
[0027] Advantageously, the clamping portion is arranged at a distance from the end face of the sealing element. In the sealing position, the sealing element abuts against the sealing seat via the end face. Advantageously, the distance between the clamping portion and the end face, in particular the axial distance, is at most 15 times, in particular at most 10 times, preferably at most 5 times the distance between the end face and the abutment portion. In particular, the distance between the clamping portion and the end face, in particular the axial distance, can be at least 0.05 times, in particular at least 0.1 times, preferably substantially equal to the distance between the end face and the abutment portion.
[0028] According to another embodiment, the diameter of the abutment portion is not greater than the diameter of the envelope of the clamping portion. Preferably, the diameter of the envelope around the clamping portion is at least 0.5 times, in particular at least 0.75 times, preferably at least 0.8 times the diameter of the sealing seat. The diameter of the envelope of the clamping portion is at most 4 times, in particular at most 3 times, preferably at most 2 times the diameter of the sealing seat. The diameter of the sealing seat is at least as large as the diameter of the opening to be sealed, and is in particular larger than said diameter.
[0029] In a development of the present invention, it is provided that the clamping portion protrudes from the sealing element. In particular, it is provided that the clamping portion is formed integrally with the sealing element. Preferably, it is provided that the clamping portion protrudes radially from the sealing element. In particular, it is provided that the clamping portion protrudes inwardly or outwardly beyond an envelope, preferably a cylindrical envelope, of a portion of the sealing element.
[0030] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the mating clamping portion is formed integrally with the actuating component and / or the holding component. In particular, it is provided that the mating clamping portion protrudes from the actuating component. Preferably, it is provided that the mating clamping portion protrudes radially from the actuating component. In particular, it is provided that the mating clamping portion protrudes inwardly or outwardly beyond an envelope, preferably a cylindrical envelope, of a portion of the actuating component.
[0031] According to an alternative embodiment, the first part, which is the clamping portion or mating clamping portion, is intended to be designed as a clamping ring. In particular, the second part, which is the mating clamping portion or clamping portion, has a groove, and in the assembled state, the clamping ring is intended to be positioned in the groove. The groove can be provided in the actuating component, and therefore the sealing element has a clamping ring. Alternatively, the sealing element has a groove and the actuating component has a clamping ring. The clamping ring, the sealing element, and the actuating component are preferably designed as separate components.
[0032] In an advanced form of the present invention, the operating component is intended to have a housing, and the sealing element is intended to be at least partially positioned within the housing in the sealing position. Preferably, the sealing element is tiltable relative to the housing in the open position. If the sealing element has a clamping portion, it is intended that the clamping portion has a maximum outer diameter and the mating clamping portion has a mating inner diameter. Preferably, the sealing element abuts the mating inner diameter by its maximum outer diameter in the sealing position. In particular, the sealing element is intended to have an oversized dimension (Uebermass) relative to the housing. In particular, the housing is intended to be designed to correspond to the outer contour of the sealing element, preferably as a straight cylinder. Alternatively, a clamping ring and groove may be provided. To facilitate assembly, it is preferably intended that the housing has an inlet slope.
[0033] When the operating component has a housing, it is intended that the operating component be positioned away from the seal seat, particularly at the sealing position. Specifically, only the sealing element is in contact with the seal seat.
[0034] According to an alternative embodiment, the seal element has a housing, and the actuating component is intended to be at least partially, preferably completely, positioned within the housing in the sealed position. Preferably, the seal element is intended to be tiltable around the actuating component in the open position. In this embodiment, it is advantageous if the clamping portion protrudes inward from the seal element. In particular, the clamping portion is intended to form the minimum inner diameter of the housing. A mating clamping portion may be provided on the outer diameter of the actuating component. Preferably, the actuating component is oversized relative to the housing, thereby forming an interference fit between the actuating component and the housing of the seal element. Alternatively, a clamping ring and groove may be provided. Furthermore, to facilitate assembly, the housing is particularly intended to have an introduction bevel. Alternatively or additionally, the actuating component is intended to have an introduction bevel. The introduction bevel of the actuating component may facilitate the assembly of the housing of the seal element to the actuating component.
[0035] To restrict the movement of the actuating component within the sealing element's housing, it is purposeful for the actuating component to have a stopper. In particular, the stopper is intended to circumferentially surround the actuating component. Preferably, at the maximum compression state of the sealing device, the sealing element is intended to abut against the stopper. For purposeful purposes, the stopper is intended to have a rounded or blunted outer contour.
[0036] Advantageously, the sealing element is intended to have an end face located on the opposite side of the operating component. Furthermore, the end face is intended to abut against the seal seat in the sealing position. Alternatively or additionally, the sealing element is intended to have a collar, particularly a circumferential collar, and the collar is intended to abut against the seal seat in the sealing position. Preferably, the end face is designed as a flat surface. The collar protrudes axially from the end face in the direction of the seal seat. In particular, the end face is intended to abut only partially against the seal seat in the sealing position. Preferably, the end face is intended to extend beyond the seal seat. For example, the end face is intended to extend over an opening to be sealed. If present, in particular, the collar is intended to abut against the seal seat only in the sealing position.
[0037] If a sealing element is intended to have a centering projection, the placement of the sealing element on the sealing seat can be facilitated. The centering projection is used for centering in the sealing opening. In particular, the centering projection is located on the end face of the sealing element, and preferably, the centering projection protrudes from the end face of the sealing element. Preferably, the centering projection is oriented away from the operating component. Preferably, the centering projection protrudes into the opening to be sealed at the sealing position. The centering projection preferably has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the opening to be sealed. Alternatively or additionally, in particular, the centering projection is intended to have a tapering tip, preferably the tip is intended to be at least partially parabolic, or conical, or frustoconical.
[0038] According to alternative or additional embodiments, the seal seat is intended to be designed as a projection. Alternatively, the seal seat may be designed as a recess. When the seal seat is designed as a projection, it is advantageous that the projection has a rounded outer edge, for example, a circular segment. When the seal seat is designed as a recess, it is advantageous that the recess is designed as a flat surface. For example, the recess is created by material removal by a surface treatment such as grinding.
[0039] The sealing performance is improved when the sealing element and / or the operating component and / or the sealing seat are intended to be made of an elastic material. In particular, the elastic material is an elastomer, preferably a thermoplastic elastomer. The thermoplastic elastomer can be a partially crystalline thermoplastic plastic. Preferably, the maximum crystallinity of the partially crystalline thermoplastic plastic is 50%. Preferably, the thermoplastic elastomer is polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polypropylene (PP), polyoxymethylene (POM), or a mixture thereof.
[0040] In advantageous embodiments of the present invention, the actuating component and the sealing element are intended to be made of different materials. In particular, the material of the actuating component has a different elastic modulus than the material of the sealing element. Specifically, the first material of the actuating component and the sealing element is intended to be an elastic material, and / or the second material of the actuating component and the sealing element is intended to be a metal. The elastomer can be a thermoplastic. For example, the elastomer is a partially crystalline thermoplastic, preferably with a maximum crystallinity of 50%. Here again, preferably, the plastic is polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polypropylene (PP), polyoxymethylene (POM), or a mixture thereof. The metal can be steel, preferably stainless steel, or in particular aluminum alloy or aluminum.
[0041] If the actuating component is made of an elastic material, the seal seat and seal element may also be formed from an elastic material. In particular, the seal element and seal seat may be formed from a material that is less elastic than the actuating component. Preferably, the seal seat and actuating component are intended to be made from a material that is more elastic than the material of the seal element.
[0042] Alternatively, the seal seat and actuating component are intended to be made from a material with lower elasticity than the material of the seal element. If at least one of the three components—seal seat, seal element, and actuating component—is made from an elastically deformable material, the sealing performance is improved even when temperatures fluctuate.
[0043] The above problems can be further solved by using the sealing device according to the present invention in switching valves or control valves. The aforementioned features and advantages of the sealing device according to the present invention are equally applicable to the use of the sealing device in switching valves or control valves, and vice versa. For example, this sealing device can be used in hydrogen systems, particularly in hydrogen systems of vehicles such as commercial vehicles. Alternatively or additionally, the sealing device according to the present invention is intended for use at pressures exceeding 700 bar, particularly pressures exceeding 800 bar, preferably up to 875 bar.
[0044] The above problems are further solved by the sealing element of the sealing device according to the present invention. The aforementioned features and advantages of the sealing element of the sealing device according to the present invention also apply to the sealing element according to the present invention, and vice versa.
[0045] The operating component for a sealing device according to the present invention also solves this problem. All the aforementioned features and advantages of the operating component for a sealing device according to the present invention also apply to the operating component according to the present invention, and vice versa.
[0046] Furthermore, the above problems are solved by a method for operating a sealing device, and more particularly by a method for operating a sealing device according to the present invention. This method is intended in particular for the initial operation of the sealing device, i.e., the first operation. The sealing device to be operated comprises an operating component, a sealing element, and a sealing seat. The sealing element is moved from an open position to a sealed position by the operating component. In the sealed position, the sealing element is pressed axially against the sealing seat by the operating component. This method, - A step of moving the operating component axially toward the seal seat, -A process in which the sealing element is moved axially toward the seal seat by the movement of the operating component, and this movement presses the sealing element against the seal seat, Includes.
[0047] While the sealing element moves axially toward the sealing seat, the sealing element performs a tilting motion relative to the tilting portion of the actuating component by contact. In particular, the tilting motion ends when the sealing device is in the sealing position. All the features and advantages described above with respect to the sealing device also apply to the method according to the present invention, and vice versa.
[0048] The seal element can perform a tilting motion throughout the axial movement of the actuating component. Preferably, the seal element performs a tilting motion only for a portion of the axial movement of the actuating component. Preferably, the seal element performs only axial movement until the seal element comes into at least partial contact with the seal seat. Then, the seal element performs a tilting motion, preferably in combination with the axial movement, until the seal element comes into full contact with the seal seat.
[0049] Other advantageous embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the figures and dependent claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0050] [Figure 1a] This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device according to a first embodiment in a high-pressure valve. [Figure 1b] Figure 1a is a detailed view of the sealing device. [Figure 2a] This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device according to another embodiment. [Figure 2b] This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device according to another embodiment. [Figure 2c] Figures 2a and 2b are perspective views of the sealing elements of the sealing device. [Figure 3a] This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device according to another embodiment, located at the sealing position. [Figure 3b] Figure 3a is a perspective view of the sealing element of the sealing device. [Figure 4a] This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device according to another embodiment, located at the sealing position. [Figure 4b]Figure 4a is a perspective view of the sealing element of the sealing device. [Figure 5a] This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device according to another embodiment, located at the sealing position. [Figure 5b] Figure 5a is a perspective view of the contact portion of the sealing element of the sealing device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0051] In different drawings, the same part is always assigned the same reference number.
[0052] With respect to the following description, it is asserted that the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and, in that case, to all or some of the features of the combination of features described, but rather, the individual partial features of the exemplary embodiments / each exemplary embodiment are important to the subject matter of the present invention, either on their own, separate from all other partial features described in relation thereto, or in combination with any feature of another exemplary embodiment.
[0053] Figure 1a shows a high-pressure valve 1 equipped with a sealing device 2. In this exemplary embodiment, the high-pressure valve 1 is designed as a control valve for hydrogen applications. The high-pressure valve 1 is suitable for use in a pressure regulator.
[0054] The sealing device 2 comprises an operating component 3, a sealing element 4, and a sealing seat 5. The operating component 3 can move the sealing element 4 from an open position to a sealed position. In the sealed position, the operating component 3 presses the sealing element 4 axially, i.e., in axial direction A, toward the sealing seat 5. Figure 1a shows the sealing device 2 in the sealed position, and Figure 1b shows a detailed view of Figure 1a.
[0055] In the open position, the seal element 4 is tiltable relative to the actuating component 3 by its contact portion 4a, around the tilt portion 3a of the actuating component 3. When the seal element 4 performs a tilting motion around the tilt portion 3a of the actuating component 3, the seal element 4 changes its orientation relative to the actuating component 3. According to the exemplary embodiments of Figures 1a and 1b, the seal element 4 is tiltable around the longitudinal axis L of the actuating component 3. The seal element 4 is tiltable at a maximum tilt angle of 45°. The tiltability of the seal element 4 makes it possible to compensate for the tilt of the seal element 4, thereby allowing the seal element 4 to contact the seal seat 5 and seal in the sealing position.
[0056] In this exemplary embodiment, the actuation component 3 is designed as a piston, but it can also be designed as a push pin or push rod. The actuation component 3 has a rotationally symmetric cross-section when viewed in the axial direction A.
[0057] The sealing element 4 also has a cross-section that is rotationally symmetrical when viewed in the axial direction A.
[0058] Furthermore, the sealing element 4 and the operating component 3 are distinct components. In particular, the sealing element 4 is detachably attached to the operating component 3.
[0059] The seal seat 5 is located on a component different from the operating component 3 or the sealing element 4. For example, the seal seat 5 can be located on the valve housing of the high-pressure valve 1. In Figures 1a and 1b, other components are exemplified by reference numeral 6. In particular, the seal seat 5 works in cooperation with the sealing element 4 to produce a sealing action.
[0060] The tilting portion 3a of the actuating component 3 is positioned on the side of the actuating component 3 facing the direction of the seal seat 5. Furthermore, the contact portion 4a of the seal element 4 is oriented toward the actuating component 3. The central axis of the seal element 4 coincides with the central axis of the actuating component 3. In this exemplary embodiment, the central axes of the seal element 4 and the central axes of the actuating component 3 substantially coincide with the longitudinal axis L. In the sealed position, the tilting portion 3a and the contact portion 4a are positioned on the longitudinal axis L.
[0061] Figures 2a and 2c show another embodiment of the sealing device 2. This sealing device 2 also has an operating component 3, a sealing element 4, and a sealing seat 5. The operating component 3 allows the sealing element 4 to move from an open position as shown in Figure 2a to a sealed position as shown in Figure 2b. In the sealed position, the operating component 3 presses the sealing element 4 axially toward the sealing seat 5. In the open position, the sealing element 4 is tiltable relative to the operating component 3 around the tilting portion 3a by the contact portion 4a.
[0062] Similar to the embodiments shown in Figures 1a and 1b, the tilting portion 3a in Figures 2a and 2b is positioned on the side of the operating component 3 facing the direction of the seal seat 5. Furthermore, the contact portion 4a of the seal element 4 faces the direction of the operating component 3.
[0063] During the tilting motion, for example, the actuating component 3 moves the seal element 4 from the open position to the sealed position, so the base surface 4b of the seal element 4 contacts the actuating component 3 only by the contact portion 4a. In the exemplary embodiments of Figures 1a and 1b and Figures 2a to 2c, the base surface 4b is one side of the seal element 4, i.e., the upper side. The base surface 4b is a curved surface.
[0064] Figure 2c shows a perspective view of the seal element 4 in Figures 2a and 2b. It is shown that the contact portion 4a of the seal element 4 has a bulge. The bulge protrudes from the seal element 4. When the seal device 2 is in the sealing position, the apex 7 of the bulge is located on the longitudinal axis L of the seal device 2. The apex 7 of the bulge is the highest point of the base surface 4b having the contact portion 4a.
[0065] Figures 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, and 5b show another exemplary embodiment of the sealing device 2. These sealing devices 2 also have an actuation component 3, a sealing element 4, and a sealing seat 5. The actuation component 3 makes it possible to move the sealing element 4 from an open position to a sealed position (see Figures 3a, 4a, and 5a), and the actuation component 3 presses the sealing element 4 axially toward the sealing seat 5 in the sealed position. The sealing element 4 has a contact portion 4a, and in the open position, the sealing element 4 is tiltable relative to the actuation component 3 by the contact portion 4a about the tilt portion 3a of the actuation component 3.
[0066] The contact portion 4a of the embodiment of the seal element 4 shown in Figures 3a and 3b has a bulge. The bulge protrudes from the seal element 4. When the seal device 2 is in the sealing position, the apex 7 of the bulge is located on the longitudinal axis L of the seal device 2. The apex 7 of the bulge is the highest point of the base surface 4b having the contact portion 4a.
[0067] The sealing device 2 of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 4a also has a bulge. However, this bulge is located on the tilting portion 3a of the operating component 3. The bulge protrudes axially A from the operating component 3 toward the sealing element 4. The apex 7 of the bulge is the outermost axial point of the operating component 3. In the sealing position, the apex 7 of the bulge is located on the longitudinal axis L.
[0068] According to the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 5a and 5b, the sealing element 4 is designed in a spherical notch shape, and in particular the notch is larger than a hemisphere. The tilting portion 3a has a shape corresponding to the contact portion 4a, in this case a hemispherical recess.
[0069] During the tilting motion, for example, when moving from the open position to the sealed position, the seal element 4 in all illustrated embodiments performs a movement, particularly a pivoting motion, around the contact portion 4a. The seal element 4 is guided by the bulge during the tilting motion.
[0070] The sealing element 4 further has a clamp portion 4c. The clamp portion 4c cooperates with the mating clamp portion 3b of the operating component 3. A frictional force is generated between the clamp portion 4c and the mating clamp portion 3b.
[0071] According to the embodiments shown in Figures 1a to 2c, the clamp portion 4c protrudes radially outward from the seal element 4. The clamp portion 4c is formed circumferentially on the seal element 4. Furthermore, the clamp portion 4c is formed integrally with the seal element 4.
[0072] The clamp portion 4c shown in Figures 1a to 2c has an outer circumference larger than the inner circumference of the operating component 3 in the mating clamp portion 3b. The sealing element 4 and the operating component 3 are designed such that the clamp portion 4c is oversized relative to the operating component 3.
[0073] As shown in Figures 3a and 3b, the clamp portion 4c protrudes from the seal element 4. The clamp portion 4c protrudes into the housing portion 8 of the seal element 4 in the direction of the actuating component 3. The clamp portion 4c is formed integrally with the seal element 4. A mating clamp portion 3b is positioned on the outer circumference of the actuating component 3. Figures 3a and 3b show an exemplary embodiment in which the actuating component 3 is oversized relative to the housing portion 8 of the seal element 4. The clamp portion 4c has an outer circumference larger than the inner circumference of the actuating component 3 at the mating clamp portion 3b. This creates a press fit, at least at the sealing position. Preferably, the press fit is already present in the assembled state, i.e., when the seal element 4 is attached to the actuating component 3.
[0074] The seal element 4 shown in Figures 4a and 4b also has a clamp portion 4c. This clamp portion 4c is circumferentially formed and protrudes into the housing portion 8 of the seal element 4 in the direction of the operating component 3. The clamp portion 4c is designed as a clamp ring 9. Furthermore, the operating component 3 has a groove 10. In the assembled state, the clamp ring 9 is positioned in the groove 10. The clamp ring 9 is inserted into the groove 10 before the seal element 4 is assembled to the operating component 3. The groove 10 is designed as a radially enclosing groove in the operating component 3.
[0075] Figures 4a and 4b show exemplary embodiments of a sealing element 4 in which a press fit is generated in the sealing position by the cooperation of the clamp ring 9, the sealing element 4, and the operating component 3. In particular, the clamp ring 9 is designed to be compressible.
[0076] Figure 5a shows an exemplary embodiment in which a seal element 4 is detachably held by a retaining component 15, which is designed as a tightening nut. For example, the seal element 4 is designed as a ball-shaped notch. The threads 15a of the retaining component 15 cooperate with the mating threads 3d of the actuating component 3, thereby creating a tightening action between the actuating component 3 and the seal element 4. The retaining component 15 has a retaining housing 16 that is configured to accommodate the seal element 4 at least partially. In this case, the retaining housing 16 of the retaining component 15 is configured to be positioned behind the rotational center point R of the seal element 4, when viewed axially A with respect to the seal seat 5.
[0077] The sealing element 4 is pressed against the acting component 3, particularly by the retaining component 15. In this case, the torque between the retaining component 15 and the acting component 3 provides the required clamping force. This ensures that the sealing element 4 is clamped without play, but movably, and does not tilt again after alignment.
[0078] Figures 1a to 2b show a sealing device 2 in which the operating component 3 has a housing 8. The sealing element 4 is positioned at least partially within the housing 8 in the sealing position. In the open position, the sealing element 4 is tiltable relative to the housing 8.
[0079] The housing section 8 has an inlet slope 8a. Furthermore, the housing section 8 has a straight cylindrical shape. At the sealing position, the sealing element 4 abuts against the housing section 8 by its maximum outer diameter. The mating clamp section 3b is formed within the inner diameter of the housing section 8. Because the sealing element 4 is excessively large relative to the housing section 8, a clamping force is generated, and a press fit exists at the sealing position.
[0080] Figures 3a and 3b, as with Figures 4a and 4b and Figures 5a and 5b, show a seal element 4 having a housing 8. In the sealed position, the actuating component 3 is positioned at least partially within the housing 8. In the open position, the seal element 4 is tiltable around the actuating component 3. To facilitate the assembly of the seal element 4 to the actuating component 3, the actuating component 3 has an introduction slope 3c (see Figures 3a and 5a). The same effect is achieved if the seal element 4 has an introduction slope 4d (see Figure 4a).
[0081] All approach slopes 3c, 4d, and 8a are designed as circular approach slopes.
[0082] As shown in Figures 3a and 4a, the actuation component 3 has a stopper 11. The stopper 11 is circumferentially formed in the actuation component 3. In the maximum compression state, the seal element 4 abuts against the stopper 11. To prevent damage to the seal element 4, the stopper 11 has a rounded and / or rounded outer contour 11a.
[0083] The sealing element 4 shown in Figures 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, and 5b has an end face 4e. The end face 4e is positioned on the opposite side of the operating component 3. As shown in Figures 1a, 1b, 2b, 3a, 3b, 5a, and 5b, in the sealing position, the sealing element 4 abuts against the sealing seat 5 by its end face 4e.
[0084] In Figures 1a, 1b, 4a, and 4b, the collar 12 is positioned on the sealing element 4. At the sealing position, the sealing element 4 contacts the sealing seat 5 via the collar 12.
[0085] Collar 12 protrudes from the sealing element 4. Collar 12 is designed as a circumferential collar. Furthermore, collar 12 has a rounded outer edge.
[0086] According to the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 3a and 5a, both the end face 4e of the seal element 4 and the seal seat 5 are designed as flat surfaces. Figure 5a shows an embodiment in which the retaining component 15 is positioned spaced apart from the seal seat 5 in the sealing position.
[0087] Figures 2a and 2b show an embodiment in which the seal seat 5 is designed as a projection 13. In the sealing position, the projection 13 abuts against the end face 4e of the seal element 4. The projection 13 has a rounded, particularly circular segment-shaped outer edge. The projection 13 is designed so that the operating component 3 is separated from the seal seat 5 in the sealing position.
[0088] The sealing device 2 is actuated according to a method according to the present invention. For this purpose, the method includes the step of moving the actuating component 3 axially toward the seal seat 5. The sealing element 4 moves axially toward the seal seat 5 as a result of the movement of the actuating component 3 until the sealing element 4 is pressed toward the seal seat 5. While the sealing element 4 is moving axially toward the seal seat 5, the sealing element 4 performs a tilting motion with respect to the tilting portion 3a of the actuating component 3 by its contact portion 4a.
[0089] In particular, the sealing device 2 has a pressure compensation channel 14. This pressure compensation channel 14 is shown only in the embodiments of Figures 1a and 1b. In this embodiment, the pressure compensation channel 14 is provided on the operating component 3. The pressure compensation channel 14 is positioned and configured to provide pressure compensation between the side of the sealing element 4 where the contact portion 4a is provided and the side of the sealing element 4 facing the sealing seat 5. In this exemplary embodiment, the pressure compensation channel 14 provides pressure compensation between the portion of the sealing element 4 above the clamp portion 4c and the portion of the sealing element 4 below the clamp portion 4c.
[0090] Although not shown in the figures, it is possible to provide a pressure compensation channel in the sealing device 2 shown in Figures 2a, 2b, 3a, 4a, and 5b.
[0091] The present invention is not limited to the illustrated and described exemplary embodiments, but also includes all embodiments that function in the same way as the present invention. It is clearly emphasized that the exemplary embodiments are not limited to all combinations of features, and rather, individual partial features can have inventive significance on their own, separated from all other partial features. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the combinations of features defined in the independent claims so far, but can also be defined by any other combination selected from the individual features disclosed as a whole. This essentially means that the individual features of the independent claims, particularly claim 1, can be effectively omitted or replaced by at least one single feature disclosed elsewhere in this application. [Explanation of symbols]
[0092] 1. High-pressure valve 2. Sealing device 3. Operating Components 3a Tilt part 3b Opposing clamp section 3c Introductory Slope 3D mating screw thread 4 Seal elements 4a Contact part 4b Base surface 4c clamp section 4d approach slope 4e End face 5 Seal Seat 6 Other components 7 vertices 8. Storage area 8a Approach Slope 9 Clamp Rings 10 grooves 11 Stopper 11a Rounded outer contour 12 colors 13 Protrusion 14 Pressure Compensation Channels 15 Retaining Components 15a thread 16. Holding and housing section A-axis L Longitudinal axis R is the center of rotation.
Claims
1. A sealing device (2) for a high-pressure valve (1), comprising an operating component (3), a sealing element (4), and a sealing seat (5), wherein the operating component (3) is capable of moving the sealing element (4) from an open position to a sealed position, and the operating component (3) presses the sealing element (4) axially toward the sealing seat (5) in the sealed position, In the open position, the sealing element (4) is characterized in that it is tiltable relative to the operating component (3) by the contact portion (4a) around the tilt portion (3a) of the operating component (3), wherein the sealing device (2) is characterized in that, in the open position, the sealing element (4) is tiltable relative to the operating component (3) by the contact portion (4a).
2. The tilting portion (3a) is positioned on the side of the operating component (3) facing the direction of the seal seat (5), and / or The contact portion (4a) of the sealing element (4) is oriented in the direction of the operating component (3). Characterized by, The sealing device (2) according to claim 1.
3. During the tilting motion, the base surface (4b) of the sealing element (4) contacts the operating component (3) only by the contact portion (4a). Characterized by, The sealing device (2) according to claim 1 or 2.
4. The tilting portion (3a) of the operating component (3) and / or the contact portion (4a) of the sealing element (4) have a bulge, preferably a protruding bulge, and in particular the apex (7) of the bulge is positioned on the central axis (L) of the sealing device (2) at the sealing position. Characterized by, A sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
5. The sealing element (4) is guided by the bulge during tilting motion. Characterized by, The sealing device (2) according to claim 4.
6. The sealing element (4) has a clamp portion (4c), preferably a circumferential clamp portion (4c), and in particular, the clamp portion (4c) cooperates with the mating clamp portion (3b) of the operating component (3). Characterized by, The sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
7. The clamp portion (4c) protrudes from the sealing element (4), and in particular is formed integrally with the sealing element (4), or The first part, the clamp portion (4c) or the mating clamp portion (3b), is configured as a clamp ring (9), and in particular, the second part, the mating clamp portion (3b) or the clamp portion (4c), has a groove (10), and in the assembled state, the clamp ring (9) is positioned in the groove (10). Characterized by, The sealing device (2) according to claim 6.
8. The operating component (3) has a housing (8), the sealing element (4) is at least partially positioned in the housing (8) in the sealing position, and in particular the sealing element (4) is tiltable relative to the housing (8) in the open position. Characterized by, A sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
9. The sealing element (4) has a housing (8), and the operating component (3) is at least partially positioned in the housing (8) in the sealing position, and in particular, the sealing element (4) is tiltable around the operating component (3) in the open position. Characterized by, A sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
10. The operating component (3) has a stopper (11), particularly a circumferential stopper (11), and in particular, in the maximum compression state, the sealing element (4) abuts against the stopper (11). Characterized by, The sealing device (2) according to claim 9.
11. The sealing element (4) has an end face (4e) located on the side opposite to the operating component (3), and in the sealing position, the end face (4e) abuts against the sealing seat (5), and / or The sealing element (4) has a collar (12), particularly a circumferential collar (12), and the collar (12) contacts the sealing seat (5) at the sealing position. Characterized by, A sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.
12. The seal seat (5) is designed as a protruding portion (13), or The aforementioned seal seat (5) is designed as a recess. Characterized by, A sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.
13. The sealing element (4) and / or the operating component (3) and / or the sealing seat (5) are made of an elastic material, in particular an elastomer, preferably a thermoplastic elastomer. Characterized by, A sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.
14. The operating component (3) and the sealing element (4) are made from different materials, particularly materials with different elastic moduli. In particular, the first material among the materials is an elastic material, especially an elastomer, preferably a thermoplastic, and / or the second material among the materials is a metal, especially steel, preferably stainless steel, or especially an aluminum alloy, preferably aluminum. Characterized by, A sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.
15. Use of the sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, in a switching valve or a control valve.
16. A sealing element (4), which is a sealing element of the sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.
17. An operating component (3) of the sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.
18. A method for operating a sealing device (2), particularly a sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, particularly for the first time, wherein the sealing device (2) comprises an operating component (3), a sealing element (4), and a sealing seat (5), wherein the operating component (3) moves the sealing element (4) from an open position to a sealed position, and the operating component (3) presses the sealing element (4) axially toward the sealing seat (5) in the sealed position, and the method is - A step of moving the operating component (3) axially toward the seal seat (5), - The process includes moving the operating component (3) to move the sealing element (4) axially toward the sealing seat (5) until the sealing element (4) is pressed against the sealing seat (5), A method characterized in that, while the seal element (4) is moved axially toward the seal seat (5), the seal element (4) performs a tilting motion with respect to the tilting portion (3a) of the operating component (3) by the contact portion (4a).