Cutting section cover assembly with open, expandable and lockable insertion valve - Patents.com

Abstract

This method of installing a replacement valve in a fully pressurized pipeline uses a replacement valve body with two cylinders that mate with the openings of the severed pipe. Each of the two cylinders contains a cutoff cover assembly, including a cylindrical elastomeric seal and a split pipe. The replacement valve body further includes a linearly moving valve in the center of the valve. When the cylinder ends of the replacement valve body are positioned adjacent to the bore of the severed pipeline end, the movement of the valve can press against the elastomeric seal of each cutoff cover assembly, expanding the diameter of the cutoff cover assembly as it enters the bore of the severed pipeline end. This covers the gap created when the pipe is severed and allows the valve pipe end to fluid-tightly engage with the replacement valve body.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a replacement valve for a pipe and a method for replacing the valve. [Background technology]

[0002] Pipeline valves are prone to corrosion, blockage by mineral or chemical deposits or foreign objects, or other damage, requiring maintenance, such as cleaning and resurfacing of the hollow valve body interior and cleaning, resurfacing, or replacement of the valve stop mechanism. One method of servicing such valves is to stop fluid flow through the pipeline so that the valve is not under pressure during the maintenance work. However, shutting down a pipeline can have significant consequences. For example, shutting down a water main to service a branch pipe to a residential area can cause inconvenience to many water customers and potentially result in financial losses.

[0003] Another method for servicing or replacing pipeline valves is to perform the work without depressurizing the pipeline. Systems are known that use fully pressurized vessels to keep valves and other pipeline controls pressurized during maintenance. However, such vessels cannot be fully depressurized for cleaning because the system remains fully pressurized at all times.

[0004] Other methods for inserting a replacement valve into a pipeline without reducing pipeline pressure are known, such as the method disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,041,806. A similar method is also disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2023 / 0041200, in which a replacement valve assembly is placed between the ends of cut pipes and a gate isolator is moved into the body of the valve assembly, forcing the replacement valve's internal seal into the bore of the existing cut pipe end. However, such prior methods and devices lack a means for locking the internal seal away from the gate valve isolator after insertion is complete, or for retracting the internal seal if necessary. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention includes a replacement valve assembly 10 for pipe. The replacement valve includes (1) a valve body 30, (2) a right side 16 cutout cover assembly 20, and (3) a left side 16 cutout cover assembly 20, where the left and right cutout cover assemblies are configured to join and seal respective ends of a cut pipe, such as a pipeline. The valve body 30 has a right side 16, a left side 18, a vertical axis 305, and further includes: (a) a right 16 cylinder 32 having a cylinder wall 325, a proximal opening 326 at a proximal end 321, and a distal opening 327 at a distal end 322; (b) a left 18 cylinder 32 having a cylinder wall 325, a proximal opening 326 at a proximal end 321, and a distal opening 327 at a distal end 322; (c) a central chamber 306 provided between the proximal end of the right cylinder and the proximal end of the left cylinder for receiving a vertically movable valve 31;

[0006] The central chamber of the valve body, the right cylinder, and the left cylinder are arranged along a longitudinal axis and are in fluid communication to form a fluid passage between the proximal opening of the right cylinder and the proximal opening of the left cylinder.

[0007] At least one return spring assembly 40 is provided in the cylinder wall of at least one of the right or left cylinders of the valve body, the return spring assembly including a return spring 41 located in a spring chamber 45 within the cylinder wall 205. The return spring assembly further includes a barrel 42 secured to the cylinder wall 205, the barrel extending laterally through the spring chamber 45 and contacting the proximal end of the return spring.

[0008] The right disconnect cover assembly 20 of the replacement valve assembly is located inside the right cylinder, (a) a right cut cover conduit 210 having an outer surface 214, an inner surface 213, a proximal end 211 adjacent a central chamber, a distal end 212, and an intermediate portion 219 between the proximal and distal ends; (b) a right elastomeric seal 23 having an outer surface 232 and an inner surface 231, the outer surface of the right elastomeric seal contacting the inner surface of the right cylinder and the inner surface of the right elastomeric seal contacting the outer surface of the right cut cover conduit; (c) a proximal ramp 22 formed on or mechanically connected to the proximal side of the right cut cover conduit, the proximal ramp extending at an acute angle to the vertical axis of the valve body and extending into the central chamber.

[0009] The disconnect cover assembly 20 on the left side of the replacement valve assembly 18 is located inside the left cylinder; (a) a left-hand cut cover conduit having an outer surface, an inner surface, a proximal end adjacent the central chamber, a distal end, and a proximal portion between the proximal and distal ends; (b) a left elastomeric seal having an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface of the left elastomeric seal contacting the inner surface of the left cylinder and the inner surface of the left elastomeric seal contacting the outer surface of the left cut cover conduit; (c) a proximal ramp formed on or mechanically connected to the proximal side of the left disconnect cover conduit, the proximal ramp extending at an acute angle relative to the vertical axis of the valve body and extending into the central chamber.

[0010] As the movable valve 31 moves vertically between the first and second positions, a first side of the valve contacts the right inclined surface of the right cutting section cover assembly, pushing the distal end of the cutting section cover assembly out of the distal opening of the right cylinder. A second side of the valve contacts the left inclined surface of the left cutting section cover assembly, simultaneously pushing the distal end of the cutting section cover assembly out of the distal opening of the left cylinder. At the same time, the barrel pushes the proximal end of the return spring distally, thereby compressing the return spring.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for replacing a valve in a pipe using fluid pressure within the pipe. Fluid pipelines may transport water or other fluids at high pressures, e.g., hydraulic pressures of 80 pounds per square inch or more. An 8-inch diameter cylinder, with a surface area of ​​200 square inches, can exert 16,000 pounds of pressure on the inner wall of a replacement valve conduit. In this method, a valve housing is fluid-tightly engaged with a section of pipe, and the pipe is then cut to form right and left openings in the pipe. A replacement valve assembly is then inserted into the housing. The replacement valve has a cutout cover assembly disposed within each valve pipe end, each cutout cover assembly including a cylindrical elastomeric seal 23 and a conduit within the seal. The valve and pipe end assemblies are then aligned with the right and left openings of the pipe, and the linearly moving valve is then placed into the housing, forcing the elastomeric seal 23 and conduit of each cutout cover assembly into the respective pipe opening. Thereafter, the pressure around the housing is released, and the internal fluid pressure of the pipeline forces the elastomeric seal 23 of each cutout cover assembly against the interior surface of the respective pipe, thereby sealing the cutout cover assembly.

[0012] The present assembly and method solve several key problems. The method utilizes the downward linear movement of the gate valve's isolator when it is manually or powered toward the closed position. This downward movement causes the gate isolator to abut against both cutter cover cylinders, including their angled ends. This engagement forces the cutter cover assembly outward from its retracted position within the tube ends of the gate valves mounted on both sides of the valve as the isolator continues to move along the angled ends of the cutter cover cylinders. Tension springs are located within the walls of the tube ends of the valve, and as a downward force is continuously applied to the angled ends, the movement of the cutter cover assembly builds tension in the tension springs.

[0013] The movement of the gate isolator acts to push and spread the sloped end of the cutoff cover cylinder, forcing the cutoff cover assembly into the existing pipeline. The movement of the cutoff cover assembly compresses a tension spring within the wall of the pipe end of the valve. When the movement of the gate valve isolator is reversed or retracted, the isolator force is gradually removed as it moves upward along the sloped end, and the generated tension forces the cutoff cover assembly to follow the movement of the spring and return to its original stowed position within the pipe end of the gate valve.

[0014] Once the gate valve pipe end is aligned with the end of the existing pipeline, the gate valve isolator is pressed against the angled cut-off cover cylinder or optional curved rod, causing the side cut-off cover assemblies to move from their stowed positions within the valve pipe end into the exposed end of the cut pipeline, thereby sealing on either side of the inserted gate valve. These seals temporarily cover the pipeline cut between the new valve pipe end and the existing pipeline end in a fluid-tight arrangement, after which a permanent external seal can be installed to join the existing pipeline end to the valve pipe end. This process is applicable to most known pipe types and can be used to install many known gate valves.

[0015] The present invention provides a system for retracting the cutout cover assembly using a retractable attachment within the wall of the valve pipe end. This assembly provides a protected, unobstructed path for fluid to pass through, allowing the cutout cover cylinder to be retracted without disrupting the pipeline's fluid path. It also protects against solids in raw sewage that may become attached to the spring exposed by flowing debris. Furthermore, because the cutout cover assembly retractor is not connected to the valve and operates independently of the valve body, standard valve warranties apply.

[0016] In conventional replacement valve systems, the disconnection cover assembly may not be retractable, which can be a nuisance during the valve insertion process. Retracting the disconnection cover assembly allows the valve insertion procedure to be reversed if a problem occurs during installation. Furthermore, while the seal of this system can be moved or positioned over the disconnection gap by applying water pressure from outside the valve and valve pipe end, the present invention further provides a mechanical means for expanding the diameter of the disconnection cover assembly during or after entry into the existing pipeline end to hold the seal closer to the required position, thereby further enhancing the sealing effect of the reduced pressure. Entering the existing pipeline end with an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the existing pipeline can accommodate any misalignment or offset that may occur between the valve pipe end and the existing pipeline end, as well as reduce interference from internal corrosion that could prevent the disconnection cover assembly from advancing. If the disconnection cover assembly encounters an obstacle, such as misalignment or severe corrosion, as it enters the existing pipeline, the movement or expansion of the disconnection cover assembly may be restricted. Thus, the present invention provides a cutoff cover assembly that can be held in a reduced diameter state that is smaller than the inside diameter of the existing pipeline, and as the cutoff cover assembly advances into the inside diameter of the pipeline, it expands to fit the inside diameter of the existing pipeline, thereby assisting in sealing and allowing the seal to be positioned closer to the required area without scraping against the inside diameter of the existing pipeline end during movement.

[0017] The mechanism preferably includes at least one diameter guide pin or member attached to the valve pipe end. The diameter guide pin passes through at least one elongated slotted opening in the cutter cover cylinder assembly. The diameter guide pin passes through one or more angled slots in the cutter cover cylinder, causing the cutter cover cylinder to expand as it advances. As the cutter cover cylinder advances outward from the valve pipe end, the one or more diameter guide pins urge the cutter cover cylinder outward, expanding its diameter to match the inner diameter of the existing pipeline. Conversely, as the movement reverses to retract, the cutter cover cylinder preferably contracts in diameter as it retracts into the valve pipe end. The diameter guide pin is fixed to the wall of the valve pipe end and passes through the angled slotted cutter cover cylinder, facilitating the expansion of the diameter of the slotted cutter cover cylinder as it is pushed out from the pipe wall and the contraction of the diameter of the slotted cutter cover cylinder as it returns to its stowed position within the valve pipe end.

[0018] The present invention also provides an automated assembly that can permanently lock or restrain the disconnector cover assembly in a position away from the gate valve isolator after the valve is inserted into a flowing pipeline. The method can include at least one spring-loaded plunger assembly, commonly known as a spring plunger. When the spring plunger aligns with an opening in the disconnector cover assembly, the spring plunger can enter the opening and hold the disconnector cover assembly in a selected position. A locking mechanism on the disconnector cover assembly can hold the angled end of the disconnector cover cylinder away from the valve isolator once the insertion process is complete. Without this locking mechanism, the return tension spring could cause the disconnector cover cylinder to continue returning to its original position in contact with the isolator after valve insertion is complete. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1]Figure 1 is a side view of a gate valve with mechanically attached valve tube ends at both ends. Each valve tube end houses a cutout cover seal assembly. A return spring assembly is shown within the valve tube end wall. In the example shown, the valve's gate isolator abuts the angled surface of the cutout cover assembly. A diameter guide pin is fixed within the valve tube end wall and protrudes from an angled slot in the cutout cover cylinder, allowing the cutout cover cylinder to expand and contract. In the example shown, a spring plunger assembly is attached to both valve tube ends to lock and hold the cutout cover cylinder in a position away from the gate after valve insertion is complete. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side view of a gate valve with a mechanically attached valve pipe end. In this embodiment, a tapered gland rubber and rigid gland are shown, along with bolts, used to join the valve pipe end to the valve body. This valve pipe end holds a cutout cover seal assembly. A similar valve pipe end housing the cutout cover seal assembly is attached to the opposite side of the gate valve, but is not shown in this view. In the illustrated example, the gate isolator of the valve in the open position is positioned adjacent to, but not displacing, the angled end of the cutout cover cylinder. The return spring assembly installed within the wall of the valve pipe end does not compress the tension spring, so that the cutout cover cylinder remains housed within the valve pipe end, allowing for smooth insertion of the valve assembly into the cutout section of the existing pipeline. A diameter guide pin is fixed to the wall of the valve pipe end and is shown protruding from an angled slot located within the cutout cover cylinder. In the illustrated example, a spring plunger assembly is installed in the valve pipe end and contacts the surface of the cutout cover cylinder but does not engage a pocket located within the cutout cover cylinder. This pocket can be used to lock the cutout cover assembly if desired. [Figure 3]Figure 3 is a side view of a gate valve with a mechanically attached valve pipe end. In this embodiment, a tapered gland rubber and a rigid gland are used, along with bolts, to join the valve pipe end to the valve body. The valve pipe end is shown holding a cutout cover seal assembly. The closing movement of the gate valve's isolator is indicated by a downward arrow, showing how the isolator abuts against the cutout cover assembly and moves it due to the shape of its beveled end. This movement creates a pushing motion for the cutout cover assembly, showing it moving partially out of the valve pipe end. A return spring assembly mounted within the wall of the valve pipe end is shown compressed by the outward movement of the cutout cover assembly. This compression of the return spring assembly allows the cutout cover assembly to return as needed. The forward or outward movement moves the cutout cover assembly to cover the gap between the inserted valve pipe end and the existing pipeline end, as shown in Figure 9. A diameter guide pin (see FIG. 6), fixed to the wall of the valve tube end, protrudes from an angled slot in the cutter cover cylinder. The slot is positioned in the split tube at an acute angle to the split portion of the split tube so that outward movement of the split tube causes the angled slot to move along the locking pin, thereby increasing the outer diameter of the distal end of the split tube when the cutter cover assembly is extended beyond the valve tube end. A spring-loaded plunger is attached to the valve tube end and is shown engaging and locking within a pocket in the cutter cover assembly. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side view of the valve tube end showing the return spring pocket that holds the return tension spring and the binding barrel that passes through the slot in the return tension spring pocket. The return tension spring abuts the binding barrel. This arrangement allows the return tension spring to be compressed when the binding barrel moves down the slot. [Figure 5]Figure 5 is a side view of the valve tube end showing the return spring assembly in its relaxed, untensioned position. In this position, the return tension spring holds the cutter cover cylinder in its retracted position within the valve tube end for gate valve insertion. A spring-loaded retention plunger is attached to the valve tube end and can move along the surface of the cutter cover cylinder without engaging within the cutter cover cylinder opening until needed. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a side view of the return spring assembly mounted within the wall of the valve tube end, shown compressed by the binding barrel connected to the cutter cover assembly, which is moving outward from the valve tube end. The spring compression allows for movement of the cutter cover assembly back, if necessary, before the retaining plunger is set. Here, the retaining plunger attached to the valve tube end is shown moved into alignment with the cutter cover assembly opening. This alignment allows the spring-loaded retaining plunger to enter the cutter cover assembly opening, permanently locking the valve tube end to the cutter cover assembly and holding the gate isolator away from the cutter cover cylinder. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an end view of the cutter cover assembly showing how the return spring assembly is mounted. The return spring assembly within the wall of the valve pipe end performs its function outside the fluid path while providing an unobstructed path for fluid movement within the pipeline and through the valve and valve pipe end. To accomplish this function, at least one or more return spring assemblies mounted on the cutter cover cylinder as shown can be used. The cutter cover assembly shown in this figure allows for overlapping of the cutter cover cylinder as needed. This overlapping contributes to the expansion and contraction of the cutter cover assembly, cooperating with at least one guide pin passing through at least one angled slot in the cutter cover cylinder to reduce and expand the diameter of the cutter cover cylinder when advancing and reduce the diameter of the cutter cover cylinder when retracting into the valve pipe end. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of the valve tube end wall, detailing how the return tension spring is inserted into the return spring pocket and how the binding barrel is positioned across the return tension spring within the pocket. It also shows how the binding barrel is attached to the cutter cover cylinder by at least one screw. This combination allows movement from the cutter cover cylinder to the binding barrel, allowing compression of the return tension spring. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side view showing the valve isolator moving both cutout cover assemblies simultaneously. This view shows the cutout cover assemblies housed within both valve pipe ends, ready for insertion into the cut-off and removal section of the pipeline. Not shown here is the isolator moving the beveled end of the cutout cover cylinder, whose diameter is reduced when housed within the valve pipe ends. The return spring assembly is not shown in this view for clarity, but is shown in Figure 8. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a side view of Figure 3 showing the valve isolator moving both cutoff cover assemblies simultaneously. This view shows the cutoff cover assembly within the valve tube end and the portion pushed out of the valve tube end by the downward linear movement of the gate valve isolator. This view shows the gate isolator moving against the angled end of the cutoff cover assembly, moving the cutoff cover assembly partially out of the valve tube end. As the cutoff cover assembly moves out of the valve tube end, its diameter expands. The return spring assemblies on both valve tube ends are compressed under tension, and both retaining plungers are shown selectively released by allowing the cutoff cover cylinder to move to a position (away from the isolator) where it is locked with the valve tube end. [Figure 9]Figure 9 is a side view of Figure 8, showing the valve isolator moving to push the cutoff cover assembly out of the valve pipe end and into the cut end of the existing pipeline. The cutoff cover preferably comprises a flexible material that covers the cut gap and creates a fluid-tight seal between the valve pipe end and the existing pipeline end. The cutoff cover assembly is clearly positioned outside the valve pipe end to a predetermined position, and the cutoff cover's flexible seal covers and seals the entire inner diameter of the valve pipe end, including the entire gap left by the pipe cutting procedure and the entire inner diameter of the existing pipeline end shown, forming a fluid-tight connection between the valve pipe end and the existing pipeline end. Figures 8 and 9 show a split cutoff cover cylinder on the left and a non-split cutoff cover cylinder on the right. Various combinations of split and non-split cutoff cover cylinders can be used for the cutoff cover assembly depending on different purposes and applications. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a side view of a gate valve isolator showing its relationship to the beveled edges on either side of the cutout cover assembly. A protective cover can be attached to protect the isolator from sharp edges on the rigid material when a linear force is applied. Many known covers can be used to achieve this protection. [Figure 11] 11 is a side view showing the angled ends on either side of the cutter cover assembly. These angled ends can be provided with at least one wheel that moves along the isolator and assists in moving the cutter cover assembly outward. Incorporating multiple wheels can facilitate smooth completion of the movement of the isolator along the angled ends. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] 1 illustrates a return spring assembly 40 that functions to expand and contract the disconnector cover assembly 20 from within the wall of the valve pipe end 11 to ensure full flow of the pipeline product. The disconnector cover assembly can include a split pipe (designated 20A) that is expanded by a diameter expander / contractor assembly 50, initially forming a smaller outer diameter at its distal end and moving into the inner diameter of the existing pipeline end 70. As the split disconnector cover cylinder 20A advances into the existing pipeline end 70 (FIG. 9), the diameter of the split disconnector cover cylinder 20A expands to conform to and contact the larger inner diameter of the pipeline end 70. A retaining plunger assembly 60 can be provided to permanently secure the disconnector cover assembly 20 in a spaced-apart position from the isolator 31 of the gate valve 30 after valve insertion.

[0021] The valve pipe end 11 with the cutout cover assembly 20 is housed within a valve pipe assembly 10, which is attached to either side of a conventional gate valve 30. Various known connection means can be used to attach the valve pipe assembly 10 to the gate valve 30. For example, flanges, mechanical couplings 13 or other known connection means can be used with an intermediate seal or gasket 15 to provide a fluid-tight seal.

[0022] A valve pipe assembly 10 having a valve pipe end 11 is shown housing a cutout cover assembly 20. The cutout cover assembly 20 can include at least one flexible seal 23 attachable to the cutout cover cylinder 20. The cutout cover assembly 20 can be advanced or moved to cover a cutout gap 71, shown in FIG. 9, between the valve pipe assembly 10 of the attached gate valve 30 and existing pipeline ends 70 on either side. While the flexible seal 23 covering the cutout comprises a flexible surface capable of fluid-tightly covering the cutout gap 71, the cutout cover assembly 20 can comprise a relatively rigid material. The illustrated cutout cover assembly 20 is preferably a metal cutout cover cylinder 20, although various materials are possible, including a split cutout cover cylinder 20A, a non-split cutout cover cylinder 20B, or a combination of both 20A and 20B.

[0023] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, a gate valve 30 with a valve pipe end 11 is typically used to install the gate valve 30 into an operating, pressurized pipeline system 70. The insertion process is performed without visual observation, as the pipeline 70 remains fully pressurized. Reversing the insertion process is important for removing the partially inserted gate valve 30 if an error occurs during valve insertion. To release and remove the gate valve 30, the disconnection cover assembly 20 must be retracted from the existing pipeline end 70 (see FIG. 9) and returned to its stowed position within the valve pipe end 11, as shown in FIG. 7. This position allows for unrestricted removal of the gate valve 30 from its installed or semi-installed position. The ability to remove the gate valve 30 if there is a malfunction in the insertion process is important because the only way to correct the problem is to shut down the entire pressurized pipeline system so the gate valve 30 can be removed.

[0024] 2 is a side view of the valve tube assembly 10, showing the attachment means by which the mechanical mating gland 13 compresses the tapered mechanical mating rubber gasket 15 by tightening the bolts 14, thereby creating a fluid-tight seal, and secures the valve tube end 11 to the gate valve 30. The gate valve isolator 31 is in the half-open position, but has not yet moved into engagement with the angled end 22 of the cutout cover cylinder.

[0025] The cutter cover cylinders 20A, 20B of the cutter cover assembly 20 can be made of known rigid materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel, composites, or various plastics. The stiffeners 28 (FIG. 2) of the cutter cover assembly 20 can have various shapes added or imparted to them, such as round, square, or other shaped structures, to improve the strength of the cutter cover cylinders 20 and to withstand various linear forces of the isolator 31 that may occur at the beveled ends 22.

[0026] The cutoff cover cylinders 20A, 20B must be rigid enough to push and pull the cutoff cover assembly 20, including moving the flexible seal 23 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 over the valve pipe end 11 and into the existing pipeline end 70 (FIG. 9). The cutoff cover flexible seal 23 is not shown in all drawings to facilitate clarity of detail. When retracted into the valve pipe end 11, the split cutoff cover cylinder 20A has a reduced diameter 25, as shown in FIG. 2, which prepares the gate valve 30 and attached valve pipe end 11 for insertion.

[0027] The expander / contractor assembly 50 can be installed to expand and contract the diameter of the cutter cover assembly 20. The expander / contractor assembly 50 shown in FIG. 2 provides the cutter cover assembly 20 with a means to reduce its diameter 25. The cutter cover assembly 20 retracts into the valve tube end 11 using two anchor pins attached as shown to the distal valve tube end 11 that pass through at least one angled guide slot 52 in the split cutter cover cylinder 20A. With this arrangement, as the angled slots in the cutter cover cylinder move along and follow the anchor pins, the inward movement of the slots reduces the diameter of the distal opening of the cutter cover cylinder 20A. By varying the angle of the slots and the position of the diameter pins, various diameters can be achieved. Multiple pins and slots can be provided to accomplish this function. As shown in FIG. 9, the purpose of reducing the diameter 25 during insertion into the existing pipeline end 70 is to accommodate any slight misalignment that may exist between the pipe end 11 of the valve 30 and the existing pipeline end 70 and to help the cutting cover assembly 20 continue its forward motion 21 despite corrosion within the pipe.

[0028] When the cutter cover assembly 20 is pushed out by the isolator 31, the split cutter cover assembly 20A is designed to expand in diameter as it moves. This expanded diameter is shown at 25A in FIG. 3. When it is necessary to retract the cutter cover assembly 20, the extender / contraction assembly 50 reduces the diameter of the split cutter cover cylinder 20A as it moves back into the valve tube end 11. This reduction in diameter is shown at 25 in FIG. 2, and the reduction in diameter 25 is also shown in FIG. 7. The extender / contraction assembly 50 is shown to have at least one diameter guide slot 52, which can be provided in the split cutter cover cylinder 20A; in this detailed view of FIG. 2, two diameter guide slots 52 are shown, which can pass through openings in the cutter cover cylinder 20. This cutter cover cylinder or portion of the cutter cover cylinder is shown as split 20A, and diameter guide slots 52 are provided at various angles or shapes to accommodate movement of the cutter cover cylinder 20 during movement.

[0029] The return spring assembly 40 shown in Figures 2-5 can be installed to operate from within the valve pipe end wall 11, thereby ensuring unobstructed passage of pipeline fluid through the valve 30 and valve pipe end 11. While one return spring assembly 40 is shown, it may be preferable to provide multiple return spring assemblies for retracting the cutter cover assembly 20. This development provides a means for retracting the cutter cover assembly 20 from the pipeline end 70 to a position where it is fully contained within the valve pipe end 11. This retraction allows the inserted valve 30 and valve pipe end 11 to be removed from their sandwiched position between the existing pipeline ends 70, as shown in Figure 9, if a problem occurs during gate valve insertion.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a side view of a portion of the valve pipe assembly 10. The gate valve isolator 31 has moved toward a semi-closed position, as indicated by the arrow, engaging the angled cutter cover cylinder end 22 of the cutter cover assembly 20. The cutter cover assembly 20 has been moved outward from the valve pipe end 11 and expanded in diameter by the expansion / contraction assembly 50, the expanded or expanded diameter being shown as 25A. The cutter cover assembly 20 is moved away from the valve pipe end 11 using two anchor pins installed in the valve pipe end 11 as shown, which pass through at least one angled guide slot 52 in the split cutter cover cylinder 20A. This arrangement allows the angled slots in the cutter cover cylinder to move along and follow the anchor pins, thereby expanding the diameter as the slots move outward. By changing the slot angle and the position of the diameter pin, various diameters can be achieved. Multiple pins and slots can be used to accomplish this function.

[0031] The cutout cover assembly 20 can include a flexible seal 23 (see FIGS. 7 and 9) that covers the cutout gap 71 and fluid-tightly connects the gate valve 30 to the existing pipeline end 70. The split cutout cover cylinder 20A is provided with a cutout cover cylinder overlap 27, which allows for diameter contraction and expansion. The sliding action of the overlap 27 prevents the flexible seal 23 from being extruded from the cutout gap 71 when fluid pressure is applied. FIGS. 7, 8, and 9 illustrate the use of an optional expanding and non-overlapping cutout cover cylinder 20B, which can be used for specific applications or in combination with the split cutout cover cylinder 20A for various cutout cylinder sealing and applications.

[0032] The return spring assembly 40 shown in Figures 1-8 operates from inside the valve pipe end wall 11 and holds the return tension spring 41 out of the pipeline flow path, ensuring an unimpeded flow path for the pipeline fluid to move freely.

[0033] FIG. 3 shows the cutter cover assembly 20 being advanced out of the valve tube end 11 (see reference numeral 21), this movement of the cutter cover cylinder 20 compresses the return tension spring 41, allowing it to be retracted as required.

[0034] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the valve tube end wall 11 showing the return spring assembly 40. At least one return spring pocket 45 is provided to receive a return tension spring 41. This pocket is aligned with a binding barrel 42 that serves as a backstop for the return tension spring 41. The cutter cover assembly 20 of Figure 5 is attached to the binding barrel 42 using at least one binding barrel screw 42A, shown in more detail in Figures 5 and 6A.

[0035] A return spring pocket 45 located within the valve tube end 11 has opposing elongated openings designated as binding barrel slots 43. The slots 43 are narrow enough to retain the return tension spring 41, but allow the binding barrel 42 to move freely within the slots when the return tension spring 41 is compressed by outward movement of the cutter cover assembly 20 (see item 21 in FIG. 5A), as shown in FIG.

[0036] 5 is a cross-sectional view of the valve tube end 11 showing the binding barrel 42 attached to the cutter cover assembly 20 by at least one binding barrel screw 42A. This attachment allows the binding barrel 42 to move back and forth as needed within the binding barrel slot 43. A line extending from the return spring pocket 45 indicates the binding barrel slot 43. The cutter cover assembly 20 is in the retracted position, with the return tension spring 41 in a relaxed, uncompressed state. The binding barrel slot 43 allows free movement of the binding barrel 42 during compression and decompression associated with movement of the cutter cover assembly 20.

[0037] Additionally, at least one retaining plunger 61 is located within the valve tube end 11. When the retaining plunger is not released, it moves along the cutter cover assembly 20, and the cutter cover cylinder forms an opening 62, but is not currently aligned with the retaining plunger 61.

[0038] 5A is a cross-sectional view of the valve tube end 11 showing at least one retaining plunger assembly 60 mounted within the valve tube end wall 11. When the retaining plunger assembly 60 is compressed, the retaining plunger 61 moves along the cutter cover assembly 20 when not released. As shown, when the retaining plunger 61 aligns with a predetermined cutter cover cylinder opening 62 in the cutter cover assembly 20, this alignment causes the spring-loaded plunger of the retaining plunger 61 to pass through the cutter cover cylinder opening 62, thereby restraining the cutter cover assembly 20 in place and holding the angled cutter cover cylinder 22 away from the valve isolator 31.

[0039] 6 is a detailed front view of the return spring assembly 40 mounted within the valve tube end wall 11. In this way, the return spring assembly 40 is protected without impeding the flow of fluid through the valve tube end 11.

[0040] As shown in Figure 6A, at least one return spring pocket 45 is provided to accommodate at least one return tension spring 41. The split cutter cover cylinder 20A is installed and housed within the valve tube end 11, and at least one binding barrel 42 is attached to the split cutter cover cylinder 20A by a binding barrel screw 42A. In this Figure 6, the cutter cover cylinder 210 is shown split, forming the cutter cover cylinder overlap 27. The cutter cover cylinder is shown to have at least one diameter guide pin 51 fixed within the wall of the valve tube end 11, which passes through a diameter guide slot in the split cutter cover cylinder 20A.

[0041] 6A is a cross-sectional view of the wall of the valve tube end 11, showing the return spring pocket 45 that houses the tension spring 41 and the binding barrel 42 that acts as a backstop for the return tension spring 41. The split cutter cover cylinder 20A can be attached to the binding barrel 42 by a threaded member 42A. The binding barrel 42 is attached to the wall of the split cutter cover cylinder 20A and can move back and forth within the binding barrel slot 43 as the cutter cover cylinder 20 moves.

[0042] Figure 7 is a side view detailing how linear movement of the isolator 31 of the gate valve 30 simultaneously moves both cutter cover assemblies 20 outward from the pipe end. In this view, the isolator 31 is not pressing against the angled end 22 of the cutter cover cylinder, and the cutter cover assemblies 20 are shown fully contained within the valve pipe end 11. One diameter of the cutter cover cylinder 20 is shown reduced at 25, and retaining plunger assemblies 60 are shown on both the left and right sides of the valve pipe end 11. The retaining plungers 61 move on the cutter cover cylinder 20 and, once alignment is achieved, are released through cutter cover cylinder openings 62. While only the cutter cover flexible seal 23 is shown on the left side, a flexible seal 23 is preferably provided on the right side as well.

[0043] At the right valve tube end 11 is shown a split cutter cover cylinder 20A that is provided with an extender / retractor assembly 50 and at least one angled diameter guide slot 52. At the left is shown a cutter cover cylinder 20B that is not split and does not have an extender / retractor assembly 50.

[0044] This view shows the gate valve 30 in an open or half-open position. The valve pipe end 11 houses the right and left cutter cover assemblies 20. When the isolator 31 is not pressed into or out of contact with the angled end 22 of the cutter cover cylinder 20, the cutter cover assemblies 20 are retracted into their housed position within the valve pipe end 11.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 2, when the isolator 31 of the valve 30 is not engaged with the beveled end 22, or when the isolator 31 is pulled back by the operating part 33, the tension spring is released and expands when the pushing action against the beveled end 22 is released, pushing both cutting section cover assemblies 20 back into the stowed position within the opposite valve tube ends 11 as shown.

[0046] While omitted for clarity in Figure 7, Figure 5 shows the return spring assembly 40 positioned within the wall of the valve tube end 11 in an untensioned state. The return spring assembly includes at least one return spring pocket 45, which may be circular or any other shape necessary to hold the return tension spring 41. The depth of the return spring pocket 45 is designed to accommodate the spring 41 in its relaxed state when untensioned. The return tension spring 41 fits within this pocket and is in a fixed position relative to the binding barrel 42, which traverses the open return spring pocket 45 and acts as an end through which the return tension spring 41 cannot pass, as shown in Figures 2, 4, 5, and 6A.

[0047] FIG. 8 is a detailed side view of both valve pipe ends 11, showing how the linear force of the isolator 31 of the gate valve 30 simultaneously moves the cutter cover assemblies 20 outward beyond the valve pipe ends 11. In this view, the isolator 31 pushes against the angled ends 22 of the cutter cover cylinders, pushing the cutter cover assemblies 20A and 20B outward from both valve pipe ends 11. The diameter of the split cutter cover cylinder 20A is shown expanded at 25A, while the cutter cover cylinder 20B has moved outward but is not expanded. Although the cutter cover flexible seal 23 is only shown on the left side, a cutter cover flexible seal 23 is preferably also provided on the right side. The cutter cover cylinder on the right side shows a split cutter cover cylinder with a diameter guide pin 51 and a slot in the cutter cover cylinder 52. The left side shows a non-split cutter cover cylinder that does not expand.

[0048] The cutting section cover cylinders 20A, 20B have angled ends 22 configured to move in contact with the isolator 31 of the gate 30. As the valve isolator 31 moves linearly between a first position and a second position, a first side of the isolator 31 contacts at least one angled surface 22 on the right side of the split cutting section cover cylinder 20A, pushing the right end of the cutting section cover assembly 20A out of the opening in the right valve pipe end 11, and simultaneously, a second side of the valve isolator 31 contacts at least one angled surface 22 of the left split cutting section cover cylinder 20A or the non-split cutting section cover cylinder 20B, pushing the left end of the left cutting section cover assembly 20B out of the opening in the left valve pipe end 11.

[0049] An operating wheel 33 (see FIG. 1 ), nut, or other known means for operating the stem 34 of the gate valve 30 moves the gate or isolator 31 downward along the stem 34 and into contact with the inclined surface 22 of the cutting section cover cylinder. The composite shape of the gate valve isolator 31 moving against the inclined surface 22 of the cutting section cover assembly 20 causes the cutting section cover assembly 20 to be pushed outward from the valve pipe end 11 and into the existing pipeline end 70 sufficiently to cover the cutting gap 71 between the valve pipe end 11 attached to the gate valve 30 and the existing pipeline end 70.

[0050] The movement of the isolators 31 of the gate valve 30 causes the cutting cover assemblies 20 to partially protrude simultaneously from the valve pipe end 11 (see reference numeral 21 in Figures 3, 5A and 9). The linear movement of the isolators 31 advances the cutting cover assemblies 20 from the valve pipe end 11 into the existing open pipeline end 70 shown in Figure 9, covering the cutting gap 71.

[0051] FIG. 9 is a side view showing the cutout cover assembly 20 clearly protruding to a preset position outside the valve pipe end 11. In this state, the cutout cover flexible seal 23 covers and seals the entire inner diameter of the valve pipe end 11, including the entire gap 71 left by the pipe cutting procedure (see Appendix 1 to this application). The flexible seal 23 also covers the inner diameter of the existing pipeline end 70. The cutout cover assembly 20 forms a fluid-tight connection between the valve pipe end 11 and the existing pipeline end 70, connecting the gate valve 30 to the existing pipeline end 70. Once insertion is complete, permanent external couplings 80 are installed to cover the cutout gap 71. These permanent external couplings 80 are commonly known in the industry and are installed to cover the right valve pipe end 11 and the right existing pipeline end 70, and the left valve pipe end 11 and the left existing pipeline end 70. While one external coupling 80 is shown here, a second external coupling is typically installed to cover both gaps 71.

[0052] 10 is a side view of the isolator 31 of the gate valve 30, showing its relationship to the angled ends 22 on either side of the cutter cover assembly 20. A protective cutter cover cylinder protector 22A can be fitted over the edge of the cutter cover assembly 20 to protect the isolator 31 during linear movement and any sharp edges that may develop in the cutter cover cylinder 20 material.

[0053] FIG. 11 is a side view of the gate valve isolator 31, showing its relationship to the angled ends 22 on either side of the cutter cover assembly 20, and shows the wheeled end 22B. The wheeled end 22B can be optionally provided to aid in smooth movement between the cutter cover angled surface 22 and the isolator 31 and to prevent the rigid material of the cutter cover assembly 20 from damaging the rubber-coated isolator 31 when a linear force is applied. The wheels 22B provide the angled end 22 that moves along the isolator 31, and the downward linear force can push the cutter cover assembly 20 outward. Multiple wheels 22B can be used along the cutter cover cylinder angled surface 22 to accomplish this task.

[0054] The examples described herein are provided to illustrate certain concepts of the present disclosure. The apparatus, devices, or components described above can be configured to perform one or more of the methods, functions, or steps described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that these are merely examples, and that other examples may be within the scope of this disclosure and the accompanying claims. Based on the teachings herein, those skilled in the art will understand that aspects disclosed herein can be practiced independently of any other aspect, and that two or more of these aspects can be combined in various ways. For example, an apparatus can be implemented or a method can be performed using any number of the aspects described herein. Furthermore, such an apparatus can be implemented or a method can be performed using other structure, functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to or other than one or more aspects described herein.

[0055] definition As used herein, the following terms and variations thereof shall have the meanings indicated below unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0056] "Barrel" refers to a cylindrical container.

[0057] "Disconnection cover assembly" refers to the components moved by the valve isolator to seal the valve to the existing pipeline end. Also known as "split pipe" and "non-split pipe," disconnection cover assemblies can include various components for moving, extending, retracting, sealing, and locking the disconnection cover cylinder, which is housed within the pipeline end to insert the valve into the pressurized system.

[0058] "Expansion / contraction" and variations of this term (e.g., "increase," "expansion," "decrease," "contraction") have their ordinary meaning but do not exclude other additional elements, components, factors or variations relating to increasing or decreasing the size of the diameter.

[0059] A "gate valve" refers to a control valve that either allows fluid to pass unimpeded through the valve or stops the flow of fluid. A gate valve opens by retracting a barrier (gate) from the fluid flow path. Gate valves usually have angled or wedge-shaped faces, although they can be parallel. Gate valves may also be called "isolators" or variations thereof, and do not exclude other additional elements, components, elements, or variations of the movable flow barrier.

[0060] "Horizontal" refers to a plane or direction that is generally perpendicular to the surface on which the valve assembly is placed. "Vertical" refers to a plane or direction that is perpendicular to a horizontal plane or direction.

[0061] "Pipeline end" and variations of this term (eg, "pipeline end wall") do not exclude other additional elements, components, elements or steps.

[0062] A "slope" refers to a surface of a component or device that extends upward at an acute angle (less than 90°) relative to the vertical axis of the component or device. A slope includes both straight and curved surfaces. A component or device with a slope is said to be in an "elevated position," "tilted position," or "inclined position." The "elevated position" or "slope" may be comprised of a wheel in some embodiments.

[0063] A "split tube" refers to a conduit with a slit along its length, such as a metal cylinder split lengthwise. The split tube can be shaped so that one slit is folded inside the other (i.e., the outer surface of one slit faces the inner surface of the other), giving the split tube a spring-like expansion. A split tube can be split (separated) along its entire length or from the middle of the conduit to one end.

[0064] "Tension spring" and variations of this term (eg, "spring") are not intended to exclude other additional elements, components, elements or variations on the spring or step.

[0065] "Tube" refers to a generally tubular pipe or conduit.

[0066] As used herein, terms such as "upper," "lower," "between," "upward," "downward," "right," "left," and other terms relating to relative position or orientation refer to the relative position or orientation of one component of a valve assembly to another component, or the relative position or orientation of a valve assembly to a pipeline or supporting surface.

[0067] As used herein, terms such as "a," "an," "the," and similar referents are to be construed as including both the singular and the plural unless the context indicates otherwise. Ranges stated as being "between" two values ​​are intended to include those stated values. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 10 Valve tube assembly (replacement valve) 11 Valve tube (cylinder) distal end 13 Gland between pipe end and valve flange / M / J 14 Bolts between flange and valve 15 Gasket between flange or M / J and valve 16 Right side 18 Left side 20 Cutting Cover Assembly 210 Cutting section cover conduit 211 Proximal end of cut cover conduit 212 Distal end of cut cover conduit 213 Inner surface of cut cover conduit 214 Outer surface of cut cover conduit 216 Proximal opening of cut cover conduit 217 Distal opening of cut cover conduit 219 Cutting section cover conduit intermediate section 20A Split Type Cutting Cover Cylinder 20B Non-split Cut-off Cover Cylinder 21 Cut-off cover assembly partially protruding from valve tube end 22 Cutting section cover cylinder inclined surface / end 22A Cutting section cover cylinder slope protector 22B Cutting section cover cylinder wheel end 23 Flexible seal for cut cover 231 Inner surface of cut cover seal 232 Outer surface of cut cover seal 25 Cutting section cover cylinder (reduced diameter) 25A Cutting section cover cylinder (expanded diameter) 27 Cutting section cover cylinder overlapping part 28 Cutting section cover cylinder reinforcement 30 Gate valve body 305 Vertical axis of gate valve body 31 Gate valve isolator 32 Gate valve cylinder 321 Proximal end of gate valve cylinder 322 Distal end of gate valve cylinder 325 Gate valve cylinder wall 326 Proximal end opening of gate valve cylinder 327 Distal end opening of gate valve cylinder 33 Gate valve operating section 34 Isolator operating stem 36 Gate valve bonnet 40 Return spring assembly 41 Return tension spring 411 Proximal end of return spring 412 Distal end of return spring 42 Binding Barrel 42A Binding Barrel Screws 43 Binding barrel slot 45 Return spring pocket (spring chamber) 50 Diameter expansion / contraction assembly (diameter change assembly) 51 diameter guide pin 52 diameter guide slot 53 Cylinder pivot rivet 54 Cutting section cover cylinder outer diameter reduction section 60 Retaining plunger assembly 61 Retaining plunger 62 Cylinder retaining plunger opening 70 Existing Pipeline End 71 Cut gap 80 Permanent External Coupling

Claims

1. A replacement valve for a pipe, comprising: (1) A valve body having a right side, a left side, and a vertical axis, (a) a right cylinder having a cylinder wall, a proximal opening at a proximal end, and a distal opening at a distal end; (b) a left cylinder having a cylinder wall, a proximal opening at a proximal end, and a distal opening at a distal end; (c) a central chamber disposed between the proximal end of the right cylinder and the proximal end of the left cylinder for receiving a vertically movable valve; the central chamber, the right cylinder, and the left cylinder are arranged along a longitudinal axis and are in fluid communication to form a fluid passage between a proximal opening of the right cylinder and a proximal opening of the left cylinder; a valve body, wherein a cylinder wall of at least one of the right cylinder or the left cylinder includes at least one return spring assembly, the return spring assembly including a return spring located in a spring chamber within the cylinder wall, the return spring having a proximal end and a distal end, the return spring assembly further including a barrel secured to the cylinder wall, the barrel extending laterally through the spring chamber and contacting the proximal end of the return spring; (2) a right cutting section cover assembly disposed inside the right cylinder, (a) a right cut cover conduit having an outer surface, an inner surface, a proximal end adjacent said central chamber, a distal end, and a proximal portion between said proximal and distal ends; (b) a right elastomeric seal having an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface of the right elastomeric seal contacting the inner surface of the right cylinder and the inner surface of the right elastomeric seal contacting the outer surface of the right cut cover conduit; (c) a right cutout cover assembly including a proximal bevel formed on or mechanically connected to the proximal side of the right cutout cover conduit, the proximal bevel extending at an acute angle relative to a vertical axis of the valve body and extending into the central chamber; (3) a left cutting section cover assembly disposed inside the left cylinder, (a) a left-hand cut cover conduit having an outer surface, an inner surface, a proximal end adjacent said central chamber, a distal end, and a proximal portion between said proximal and distal ends; (b) a left elastomeric seal having an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface of the left elastomeric seal contacting the inner surface of the left cylinder and the inner surface of the left elastomeric seal contacting the outer surface of the left cut cover conduit; (c) a proximal beveled surface formed on or mechanically connected to the proximal side of the left cutter cover conduit, the proximal beveled surface extending at an acute angle relative to a vertical axis of the valve body and extending into the central chamber; and Equipped with When the movable valve moves vertically between a first position and a second position, (a) a first side of the valve contacts a right ramp surface of the right cutting section cover assembly to push a distal end of the cutting section cover assembly out of a distal opening of the right cylinder; (b) a second side of the valve contacts a left ramp surface of the left cutting section cover assembly to push a distal end of the cutting section cover assembly out of a distal opening of the left cylinder; (c) the barrel pushes the proximal end of the return spring distally, thereby compressing the return spring.

2. 2. The replacement valve of claim 1, 10. A replacement valve, wherein at least one of the right cutoff cover conduit and the left cutoff cover conduit is a split tube.

3. 3. The replacement valve of claim 2, a diameter change assembly, the diameter change assembly comprising: a guide slot formed in a distal portion of the split tube, the guide slot extending at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the valve body at the distal portion of the split tube; a diameter guide pin fixed to the cylinder wall and extending inwardly through the guide slot; A replacement valve, characterized in that the diameter of the distal end of the split tube expands when the split tube is pushed distally.

4. 3. The replacement valve of claim 2, 10. A replacement valve, wherein the right cut-off cover conduit and the left cut-off cover conduit are both split pipes.

5. 3. The replacement valve of claim 2, A replacement valve characterized in that the split tube has a break along its entire length.

6. 3. The replacement valve of claim 2, 10. A replacement valve, wherein the split tube has a break extending from a midsection of the split tube to a distal end of the split tube.

7. 2. The replacement valve of claim 1, The exchange valve, wherein both the right cylinder and the left cylinder include at least one return spring assembly.

8. 2. The replacement valve of claim 1, A replacement valve comprising a plurality of return spring assemblies.

9. 2. The replacement valve of claim 1, a retaining plunger assembly including a spring-loaded pin mounted in a receiving chamber in a cylinder wall located distal to the return spring, wherein when the distal end of the cutter cover assembly is pushed out of the distal opening of the valve body cylinder a predetermined amount, the spring-loaded pin aligns with and is pushed through an opening in the cutter cover assembly, thereby locking the cutter cover assembly in place and preventing retraction of the cutter cover assembly.

10. 2. The replacement valve of claim 1, a proximal sloped surface of the left cutting section cover assembly, a proximal sloped surface of the right cutting section cover assembly, or a proximal sloped surface of both the left cutting section cover assembly and the right cutting section cover assembly, formed on a wheel mechanically connected to the respective cutting section cover assembly.

11. 2. The replacement valve of claim 1, 10. An exchange valve, wherein the movable valve is a gate valve.

12. 1. A method of replacing a valve in a pipe containing a fluid having an internal fluid pressure, comprising: placing a housing in fluid-tight engagement with the tube; forming right and left openings in the tube by cutting a portion of the tube, the housing maintaining internal fluid pressure in the tube; inserting replacement valve assemblies into the housing, wherein a cutout cover assembly is disposed within each valve tube end of the replacement valve assembly, each cutout cover assembly including a cylindrical elastomeric seal 23 and a conduit within the seal, and wherein the valve assembly 40 further includes a valve that moves linearly between the cutout cover assemblies; aligning the valve and tube end assembly with right and left openings of the tube; forcing the linearly moving valve into the housing, thereby forcing the elastomeric seal 23 and conduit of each cutter cover assembly into the opening of the respective tube; and releasing the pressure within the housing, wherein the internal fluid pressure of the fluid within the tubes forces the elastomeric seal 23 of each cutter cover assembly against the inner surface of the respective tube, thereby sealing the cutter cover assembly.

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