Separate valve yoke sleeve

Abstract

A separable valve yoke sleeve is disclosed. The separable valve yoke sleeve according to an embodiment of the present invention is a yoke sleeve mounted on a gate valve that implements opening and closing operations of a pipe by transmitting rotational operation of a handle through a stem. It is mounted in a structure that surrounds the outer surface of the stem to seal the interior, stem, and exterior of the gate valve, and is separable in a left-right symmetrical form with respect to the central axis of the stem. According to the present invention, a detachable valve yoke sleeve can be provided that allows a damaged yoke sleeve to be safely and easily replaced without blocking the fluid flow inside the pipe, thereby maximizing the efficiency of the replacement work.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a detachable valve yoke sleeve, and more specifically, to a detachable valve yoke sleeve that allows the yoke sleeve to be safely and easily replaced even in situations where pipe shut-off is not possible. Background Technology

[0002] Gate valves are widely used devices to control fluid flow in piping systems, and the internal stem and yoke sleeve are key components. However, various problems arise during the replacement process when the yoke sleeve is damaged. In conventional technology, replacing the yoke sleeve required completely shutting off the fluid flow within the piping. This inevitably led to system shutdowns during valve maintenance, often resulting in reduced productivity and losses in industrial settings.

[0003] Replacement operations face greater challenges, particularly in emergency situations where it is difficult to shut off fluid flow. Since a damaged yoke sleeve cannot be removed without blocking the fluid within the piping, it ultimately requires the complex task of disassembling or cutting the entire valve. Such cutting and disassembly operations require skilled techniques and time, and depending on the working environment, also increase the risk of safety accidents.

[0004] In addition, most conventional yoke sleeve structures are designed as a single unit, requiring work that directly affects the valve body to replace the sleeve. This increases the likelihood of structural damage to the valve and necessitates subsequent repair work, thereby increasing overall maintenance costs. This complex process also places a significant physical and psychological burden on workers in industrial settings.

[0005] Furthermore, conventional technology has limitations in that it cannot prevent leakage or fluid spillage accidents if fluid remains in the piping during replacement work. Fluid leakage results in environmental pollution or, in the case of certain fluids, increases the risk of fire and explosion. These risks become a serious problem, particularly in sensitive environments such as chemical processes or oil refineries.

[0006] While the replacement of yoke sleeves generally follows a fixed procedure, conventional technology suffers from inefficiency, as the difficulty of the task increases sharply depending on the valve's condition and the working environment. This acts as a major factor hindering overall maintenance efficiency in industries where replacement work must be performed repeatedly. Increased worker hours result not only in higher labor costs but also lead to higher operating costs for the entire industry.

[0007] Furthermore, conventional yoke sleeve replacement methods suffer from the problem of not being able to flexibly adapt to site constraints. For example, effective replacement is virtually impossible with conventional methods when the piping system is under high pressure or when workspace is limited. This results in some industrial sites abandoning conventional technology and relying on more inefficient and costly makeshift solutions.

[0008] Therefore, conventional technology has structural limitations in that it fails to simultaneously resolve the inefficiency and safety issues arising from the yoke sleeve replacement process. Consequently, the valve replacement and maintenance process remains a critical area for improvement in industrial settings. This invention aims to fundamentally resolve these problems of conventional technology and present a new approach to ensure both efficiency and safety. Prior art literature

[0009] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-0991500 (Registration Date: October 27, 2010) The problem to be solved

[0010] The objective of the present invention is to provide a separable valve yoke sleeve that can solve the inefficiency associated with the prior art, which required blocking the flow of fluid within a pipe to replace a damaged yoke sleeve; can solve the inefficiency associated with the prior art, which required cutting and disassembling the valve yoke after blocking the flow of fluid within the pipe to replace the damaged yoke sleeve; can overcome the limitation associated with the prior art, which prevented the replacement of a damaged yoke sleeve in situations where the flow of fluid within the pipe could not be blocked; and can safely and easily replace the damaged yoke sleeve without blocking the flow of fluid within the pipe, thereby maximizing the efficiency of the replacement operation. means of solving the problem

[0011] A separable valve yoke sleeve according to one aspect of the present invention for achieving such an objective is a yoke sleeve mounted on a gate valve that implements opening and closing operations of a pipe by transmitting rotational operation of a handle through a stem, and is mounted in a structure that surrounds the outer surface of the stem to seal the inside, stem, and outside of the gate valve, and may be a structure that is separable in a left-right symmetrical form with respect to the central axis of the stem.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the separable valve yoke sleeve may be configured to include: a first sleeve unit having a structure that is separable to the left side with respect to the central axis of the stem and is separable and assembleable with a second sleeve unit; and a second sleeve unit having a structure that is separable to the right side with respect to the central axis of the stem and is separable and assembleable with the first sleeve unit.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit may be configured to include a unit contact sealing portion having a structure in which a sealing material is applied or coated, formed in a portion where the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit come into contact with each other in a surface contact manner.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit may comprise: an upper sealing portion formed on the upper inner surface of the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit and having a structure that is in close contact with the outer surface of the stem in a manner of surface contact; and a lower sealing portion formed on the lower inner surface of the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit and having a structure that is in close contact with the outer surface of the stem in a manner of surface contact, and having a sealing material applied or coated thereon.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit may comprise: a lateral protruding step portion formed on the upper outer surface of the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit, which contacts a part of the upper surface of the gate valve when assembled to the gate valve to fix the position of the separable valve yoke sleeve; a hexagonal nut forming portion formed in the central outer surface of the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit, which is structured to allow assembly to the gate valve or disassembly by rotating the separable valve yoke sleeve using a tool; and a bolting fastening portion formed on the lower outer surface of the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit, which is structured to have screw threads formed therein for bolting to the gate valve. Effects of the invention

[0016] As described above, according to the separable valve yoke sleeve of the present invention, it is mounted in a structure that surrounds the outer surface of the stem and seals the inside, stem, and outside of the gate valve, and by having a structure that is separable in a left-right symmetrical form with respect to the central axis of the stem, it is possible to safely and easily replace a damaged yoke sleeve without blocking the fluid flow inside the piping, thereby providing a separable valve yoke sleeve that can maximize the efficiency of the replacement work.

[0017] In addition, according to the separable valve yoke sleeve of the present invention, by providing a first sleeve unit and a second sleeve unit of a specific structure, the valve sleeve can be replaced relatively simply by omitting cutting and welding operations when the front and rear ends of the valve damaged by the sleeve cannot be completely blocked. Consequently, this solves the inefficient problem associated with the prior art, which required blocking the flow of fluid within the piping to replace the damaged yoke sleeve, and also solves the inefficient problem associated with the prior art, which required cutting and disassembling the valve yoke after blocking the flow of fluid within the piping to replace the damaged yoke sleeve. Furthermore, it overcomes the limitation associated with the prior art, which prevented the replacement of the damaged yoke sleeve in situations where the flow of fluid within the piping could not be blocked. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0018] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a gate valve equipped with a separable valve yoke sleeve according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side view showing a gate valve equipped with a separable valve yoke sleeve according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a gate valve equipped with a separable valve yoke sleeve according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a front view showing a separable valve yoke sleeve according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a side view showing the unit sealing portion, upper sealing portion, and lower sealing portion of a separable valve yoke sleeve according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a plan view, a side view, and a bottom view showing a lateral protruding step portion, a hexagonal nut forming portion, and a bolting fastening portion of a separable valve yoke sleeve according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0019] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0020] Throughout this specification, when it is stated that one component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with another component, but also cases where another component exists between the two components. Throughout this specification, when it is stated that a part "includes" a component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0021] FIGS. 1 to 3 each show a front view, a side view, and a top view of a gate valve equipped with a separable valve yoke sleeve according to an embodiment of the invention, FIG. 4 shows a front view of a separable valve yoke sleeve according to an embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5 shows a side view showing a unit contact sealing part, an upper sealing part, and a lower sealing part of a separable valve yoke sleeve according to an embodiment of the invention, FIG. 6 shows a top view, a side view, and a bottom view showing a lateral protruding step part, a hexagonal nut forming part, and a bolting fastening part of a separable valve yoke sleeve according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0022] Referring to these drawings, the separable valve yoke sleeve (100) according to the present embodiment is mounted in a structure that wraps around the outer surface of the stem and seals the inside, stem, and outside of the gate valve, and by having a structure that is separable in a left-right symmetrical form with respect to the central axis of the stem, the damaged yoke sleeve can be safely and easily replaced without blocking the fluid flow inside the pipe, thereby providing a separable valve yoke sleeve that can maximize the efficiency of the replacement work.

[0023] Hereinafter, each component constituting the separable valve yoke sleeve (100) according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0024] Specific structure and role of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120)

[0025] The first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) have a structure that allows for separation in a left-right symmetrical manner with respect to the central axis of the stem, and are core components constituting the yoke sleeve of the gate valve. The first sleeve unit (110) is mounted on the left side of the stem, and the second sleeve unit (120) is mounted on the right side of the stem. These two units are assembled in a manner where they come into contact with each other through surface contact, and after assembly, they serve to prevent fluid leakage by sealing the stem inside the gate valve and the outside. This structure is designed to facilitate easy assembly and separation between the units, thereby increasing the efficiency of sleeve replacement work.

[0026] A unit contact sealing portion (130) is formed in the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120). This sealing portion is located on the surface where the two units meet, and a sealing material is applied or coated thereon. The unit contact sealing portion plays an important role in increasing the adhesion between the two units and preventing fluid leakage to the outside. The selection of the sealing material can be adjusted to have heat resistance, pressure resistance, or chemical resistance depending on the usage environment, so it can be utilized in various industrial environments.

[0027] Additionally, the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) each have an upper sealing portion (141) and a lower sealing portion (142) formed therein. The upper sealing portion is in close contact with the outer surface of the stem to prevent fluid leakage from the top, while the lower sealing portion prevents fluid leakage from the bottom of the stem. In particular, the lower sealing portion is additionally coated with a sealing material to provide high sealing performance even in high-pressure environments. This multi-layered sealing structure strengthens the sealing of the entire sleeve, contributing to increased reliability and stability of the gate valve.

[0028] Structure and function of the unit sealing part (130)

[0029] The unit contact sealing portion (130) is a structure formed at the contact point between the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120), and is a key component that ensures complete contact between the two units. This sealing portion is arranged symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the stem, and serves to maintain airtightness while surface contact occurs between the units. The unit contact sealing portion has design features beyond simple physical contact, and is designed with an advanced structure to simultaneously prevent fluid leakage and ensure assembly stability.

[0030] The unit sealing portion (130) is manufactured in a form where a sealing material is applied or coated. The sealing material is selected to have durability suitable for various industrial environments such as high temperature, high pressure, and chemical corrosion, and mainly rubber, PTFE (Teflon), or metal sealing materials are used. These materials completely block the gap between the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) to prevent fluid leakage to the outside and provide strong bonding strength between the units. This significantly improves the durability and reliability of the gate valve.

[0031] In addition, the unit sealing portion (130) is designed to evenly distribute the sealing force between the two units. The sealing portion has a constant thickness and elasticity and serves to fill the gap through compressive deformation during unit assembly. This compressive deformation ensures that uniform contact pressure is maintained even after assembly and prevents the sealing performance from deteriorating even when the gate valve is used repeatedly in various environments. In particular, this structure is characterized by the fact that the sealing portion is designed to maintain its function even under vibration and external shock.

[0032] The shape and arrangement of the unit contact sealing part (130) are customized and optimized according to the design of the unit's contact surface. Generally, the unit contact sealing part has a V-shaped, U-shaped, or flat cross-sectional structure, and each structure is selected according to the purpose of use and the environment. For example, in high-pressure environments, a V-shaped cross-sectional structure is preferred, as this can further enhance sealing performance by dispersing fluid pressure. On the other hand, in general industrial environments, a simple flat structure can provide a sufficient sealing effect.

[0033] Finally, the unit sealing part (130) is characterized by a design that takes into account ease of assembly and disassembly. During the assembly process, the sealing part is guided to naturally settle into place, and it is designed so that the sealing material is not damaged even when disassembled. This ensures that the performance of the sealing part is maintained even with repeated maintenance work, and contributes to reducing overall costs and increasing efficiency of the valve system in the long term. The design completeness of this unit sealing part is one of the important differentiating factors that the present invention has over existing technology.

[0034] (1) Advanced design features beyond simple physical contact

[0035] The unit contact sealing part (130) has advanced design features that go beyond simply sealing two units by contacting them. This sealing part is designed to simultaneously satisfy the airtightness and durability required in various industrial environments through a combination of specific shapes and materials. For example, if a fine concave-convex shape is applied to the unit contact surface, these shapes interlock during assembly to provide additional physical fixation. This helps maintain sealing performance even in high temperature or vibration environments.

[0036] The shape of the sealing section is designed in various ways depending on the purpose. A V-shaped cross-section provides high compressive force, making it suitable for valve systems handling high-pressure fluids. On the other hand, a flat sealing section provides simple and stable sealing in low-pressure environments. For example, in chemical process lines, a V-shaped cross-section prevents fluid diffusion, while a flat structure can be used in general industrial water supply valves.

[0037] The unit-adhesive sealing section features advanced design characteristics in material selection as well. For example, PTFE (Teflon) coating is advantageous in environments requiring chemical resistance, while silicone rubber is used in environments requiring flexibility and heat resistance. Under specific conditions, composite materials can be used to optimize the properties of the sealing section. For instance, combining a PTFE outer layer with a metal inner core can ensure both durability and flexibility.

[0038] The arrangement of the sealing section also reflects design characteristics. Generally, sealing sections arranged symmetrically with respect to a central axis provide balanced pressure during unit assembly. This symmetrical structure is designed to ensure that the sealing section is not subjected to unbalanced pressure even after assembly. For example, in a hydraulic gate valve, sealing sections symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis can reliably respond to fluid pressure fluctuations.

[0039] Finally, the sealing section provides both dynamic and static seals, taking environmental factors into account. The dynamic seal is designed to absorb movement and pressure occurring during assembly, while the static seal is maintained in a stable state after assembly is completed. For example, dynamic seals are important for valves that open and close at high speeds, while static seals are a primary consideration for static valves in gas lines.

[0040] (2) Fluid leakage prevention structure

[0041] The unit sealing portion (130) provides high airtightness through a multi-layered structure to prevent fluid leakage. The basic role of the sealing portion is to completely seal the gap between the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) to prevent fluid from leaking out. To this end, the sealing portion is compressed during assembly to achieve a complete seal and block the fluid leakage path. For example, in an industrial hydraulic gate valve, the sealing portion prevents leakage even when water is operating at high pressure.

[0042] Highly durable materials are used in the sealing sections to maximize the effectiveness of preventing fluid leakage. For example, rubber-based materials provide excellent adhesion in situations involving high-pressure fluids, while PTFE coatings protect the seals from chemically aggressive fluids. These materials are designed to minimize deformation or wear even during prolonged use.

[0043] The structural design of the seal plays a crucial role in preventing leakage. For example, a V-shaped seal provides stronger sealing force as fluid pressure increases. This is because it converts the force attempting to leak the fluid through the seal into a force that actually reinforces the seal. Such a structure effectively prevents fluid leakage in high-pressure environments.

[0044] Furthermore, the sealing section features a structure that blocks multiple potential pathways for fluid leakage. For example, by placing independent sealing layers at the top and bottom, the other layer can prevent fluid leakage even if one sealing layer is damaged. This method further enhances safety and reliability and is particularly useful in high-risk chemical process lines.

[0045] Finally, the sealing unit maintains its fluid leakage prevention performance even under environmental factors. For example, in high-temperature environments, the sealing material expands to strengthen the adhesion between units, while in low-temperature environments, the sealing unit maintains its flexibility to seal gaps. This provides a structural advantage that enables stable operation even in environments with significant temperature fluctuations.

[0046] (3) Structure for ensuring assembly stability

[0047] The unit contact sealing part (130) is designed to ensure stability during the assembly process. The sealing part serves to guide the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) to interlock naturally. To this end, the shape of the sealing part has the function of automatically aligning the position during unit assembly and helps to ensure accurate assembly without distortion. For example, a V-shaped cross-section provides the effect of guiding the unit to an accurate interlocking position.

[0048] During the assembly process, the sealing part serves to evenly distribute pressure between units. The elastic material of the sealing part absorbs and disperses the force generated during assembly, preventing excessive load from being applied to the assembly area. For example, when assembling a gate valve used in a high-pressure environment, the sealing part cushions the pressure, enabling stable assembly.

[0049] The sealing section features a structure designed to prevent excessive friction or damage during assembly. The low-friction material coated on the surface of the sealing section reduces contact resistance between units during assembly, ensuring smooth assembly. For example, a PTFE coating minimizes friction, preventing wear on the sealing section and increasing assembly efficiency.

[0050] Furthermore, the sealing section is designed to maintain stability without performance degradation even during repeated assembly and disassembly processes. For example, the silicone rubber material maintains its shape even during repeated compression and restoration, providing reliability for long-term use. This is a particularly important factor in valve systems where maintenance is frequent.

[0051] Finally, the sealing unit features a structure that maintains stability even after assembly is complete. After assembly, the sealing unit serves to secure the joints between units and does not separate even under changes in fluid pressure or external impacts. For example, in industrial environments with high vibration, the sealing unit contributes to improving equipment reliability by stably securing the assembled units.

[0052] Specific structure and role of the upper sealing part (141)

[0053] The upper sealing portion (141) is formed on the upper inner surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) and is structured to be in close contact with the outer surface of the stem in a manner that makes surface contact. This sealing portion primarily serves to prevent fluid leakage at the top of the stem and is located in the upper structure of the gate valve. In particular, in a high-pressure environment where the fluid tends to rise upward, the upper sealing portion serves as an important line of defense.

[0054] The top seal is designed to provide stable sealing performance in various environments. For example, in valves controlling high-pressure water or steam, the top seal must provide high pressure resistance to prevent fluid leakage from the top. To this end, the top seal is manufactured from materials with excellent heat resistance and wear resistance, primarily using rubber, PTFE, or metal sealing materials. These materials are selected based on the fluid temperature and chemical properties to achieve optimal sealing performance.

[0055] In addition, the upper sealing section has a specific shape to minimize the possibility of fluid infiltration. For example, a U-shaped cross-sectional structure provides a strong seal against the force of fluid attempting to pass through the sealing section and remains stable without deformation even in high-temperature and high-pressure environments. This shape has the advantage of preventing fluid leakage while simultaneously enhancing the sealing force during the assembly process.

[0056] The upper sealing part offers structural advantages for assembly and maintenance. During assembly, the upper sealing part is designed to naturally contact the outer surface of the stem, allowing for easy mounting and dismounting. Additionally, highly durable materials and a design are applied to ensure that sealing performance does not deteriorate even during repetitive maintenance tasks. For example, even in valves that perform repeated opening and closing operations, the upper sealing part maintains its original shape and performance.

[0057] Finally, the upper seal provides stability against vibrations and external shocks generated during valve operation. Minute vibrations or shocks occurring during valve operation are evenly distributed across the upper seal, contributing to the maintenance of sealing performance even in long-term operating environments. This level of design sophistication is a key factor in enhancing the reliability of the upper seal in high-pressure and high-temperature environments.

[0058] Specific structure and role of the lower sealing part (142)

[0059] The lower sealing portion (142) is formed on the lower inner surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) and is structured to be in close contact with the outer surface of the stem. The lower sealing portion primarily prevents fluid from leaking downward from the bottom of the valve and serves to reinforce the seal between the stem and the valve body. This complements the overall sealing performance of the gate valve together with the upper sealing portion.

[0060] The lower sealing section primarily maximizes durability and airtightness through special coatings on the sealing material. Since the sealing material must operate reliably without physical damage in high-temperature and high-pressure environments, materials with high wear resistance and chemical resistance are used. For example, silicone rubber provides both flexibility and heat resistance, while PTFE offers resistance to chemical corrosion. The selection of these materials is customized according to the valve's operating environment.

[0061] The bottom seal features a multi-layered design to structurally block fluid leakage from the bottom. In particular, the bottom seal is manufactured with a sealing material applied or coated, completely sealing the gap between the unit and the stem during assembly. For instance, the V-shaped cross-section of the bottom seal creates an effect where fluid pressure pushes more strongly against the seal, thereby reducing the possibility of leakage. This structure is useful for effectively controlling fluids in high-pressure industrial lines.

[0062] Designed with assembly and maintenance in mind, the lower sealing section is a key feature. The lower sealing section is designed to naturally adhere to the stem during assembly and to be easily detached and reattached during maintenance. This enhances work efficiency and reduces the burden on operators in valve systems requiring repetitive maintenance. For example, the lower sealing section enables rapid replacement during emergency maintenance operations in large-scale plants.

[0063] Finally, the bottom seal provides high stability against environmental factors. For example, it is designed so that the sealing material does not harden in low-temperature environments, while the seal expands in high-temperature environments to prevent fluid leakage. These design advantages ensure that the bottom seal maintains reliability in various industrial environments. The bottom seal is a critical component that works in harmony with the top seal to enhance the overall sealing performance and stability of the gate valve.

[0064] Specific structure and function of the lateral protruding step portion (151)

[0065] The lateral protruding step portion (151) is a structure formed on the upper outer surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120), and serves to fix the position of the sleeve by coming into contact with a part of the upper surface of the valve when assembled to the gate valve. This step portion plays an important role in helping the assembled sleeve to be stably positioned in the correct location. The step portion prevents the sleeve from rotating or sliding during assembly and significantly improves assembly stability.

[0066] The shoulder features a protruding structure designed for mechanical fastening between the sleeve and the valve body. The height and shape of the protrusion are adjusted to suit the valve structure and typically include an inclined surface or are designed at a specific angle to ensure natural fastening during assembly. For example, in industrial valves, the shoulder is designed to engage with a specific groove in the valve body to enhance assembly precision.

[0067] In addition to its fixing role, the lateral protruding shoulder serves to distribute external forces or vibrations generated during valve operation throughout the entire sleeve. By contacting the shoulder with the valve body, the sleeve's position is maintained stably without shaking. For example, the shoulder helps the sleeve stay in place even under high pressure and vibration generated by hydraulic valves.

[0068] The lateral projection step plays an important role in maintenance operations as well. When separating or reassembling sleeves, the step guides the operator to easily position the sleeve in the correct location. This simplifies assembly work and reduces errors, even for inexperienced workers. For example, during plant maintenance, the step can shorten work time by providing an assembly guide.

[0069] Finally, the lateral projection step possesses strong durability against environmental factors. The step is designed to maintain its form and function even in high temperature, high pressure, or corrosive environments. It is manufactured from metal or special alloy materials, and corrosion resistance can be enhanced through coating. This ensures reliability, allowing for a stable connection between the valve and sleeve even during long-term use.

[0070] Specific structure and role of the hexagonal nut forming part (152)

[0071] The hexagonal nut forming part (152) is a structure formed in the center of the outer surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120), and serves to help assemble or disassemble the sleeve to the gate valve by rotating it using a tool. The hexagonal shape is designed to be compatible with various tools, thereby maximizing work efficiency and convenience.

[0072] The hex nut forming part is designed in a standardized size and shape to allow the use of standard hex spanners or socket wrenches. This standardization enables the sleeve to be assembled or disassembled quickly and accurately in various work environments. For example, it offers the advantage of being easy to use even in sites where maintenance tools are limited.

[0073] The hexagonal nut forming part has a reinforced structure to prevent excessive load from being applied to the sleeve during assembly and disassembly operations. The corners and faces of the hexagonal nut forming part are designed to distribute force evenly so that breakage or deformation does not occur during operation. For example, the forming part ensures stable force transmission even when disassembling a tightly secured sleeve in a high-pressure environment.

[0074] The hexagonal nut forming section maintains durability even under repetitive operations. Utilizing high-quality metal materials and wear-resistant coatings, wear and deformation are minimized even with continuous use. This is particularly important in environments requiring frequent maintenance. For example, in the case of valves that need frequent replacement in chemical plants, the forming section acts as a key element in enhancing operational reliability.

[0075] Finally, the hexagonal nut forming part provides the flexibility to adjust the assembly angle of the sleeve. Operators can use the forming part to precisely align the assembly position of the sleeve, which contributes to optimizing the overall performance and airtightness of the valve. For example, if the position of the sleeve needs to be fine-tuned during a specific process, the forming part enables this.

[0076] Specific structure and role of the bolting part (153)

[0077] The bolting fastening portion (153) is a threaded structure formed on the lower outer surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120), providing a structure that can be bolted to the gate valve. This fastening portion serves to firmly secure the sleeve to the valve body and plays an important role in increasing the stability and airtightness of the valve system.

[0078] The bolting connection (153) is manufactured with a standard thread specification to be compatible with various bolts and nuts. This increases the convenience of assembly work and provides flexibility for use in various environments. For example, assembly can be easily performed even in sites where tools and fastening elements are limited. The standardized connection provides compatibility during maintenance, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

[0079] The bolting connection part (153) is designed to maintain high durability even after assembly. The fastened bolt engages strongly with the connection part so that it does not loosen due to external force or vibration. For example, in a high-vibration environment, the connection part maintains the fixation of the unit, thereby maintaining stable valve performance. This design ensures stability even during long-term use.

[0080] In addition, the bolting fastening part (153) enhances safety during the assembly process. The bolting fastening part has a precision-machined structure to prevent damage to the screw threads and is designed to allow for easy recovery even if a worker makes a mistake during fastening. For example, the fastening part enables fast and safe assembly even in urgent maintenance situations.

[0081] Finally, the bolting connection (153) is made of a special material resistant to corrosion and wear. This ensures that the connection operates smoothly even after long-term use. Metal alloys or anti-corrosion coated stainless steel are primarily used, providing reliability even in environments with a high risk of corrosion, such as marine environments or chemical processes. Through this design, the connection enhances the stability of the valve system and provides a long lifespan.

[0082] As described above, the separable valve yoke sleeve of the present invention effectively solves various problems that occurred in the prior art, thereby significantly improving the efficiency and stability of maintenance work. First, the present invention provides a structure that allows the yoke sleeve to be replaced without blocking the fluid flow within the piping. This eliminates the inefficient work process of the prior art, which required the complete blockage of fluid flow in the piping, thereby minimizing downtime for maintenance work. In particular, the present invention maximizes operational flexibility by enabling sleeve replacement even in situations where blocking fluid flow is impossible. For example, in the case of piping handling LNG, replacing the valve yoke sleeve required emptying all the LNG from the piping and performing welding (hot work) to reinstall the valve yoke. However, according to the present invention, the valve can be restored to normal operation relatively simply by replacing the yoke sleeve even under conditions where it is difficult to completely vent the LNG from the piping (such as when there is no shut-off valve or when shutdown is impossible due to emergency LNG delivery).

[0083] Secondly, the present invention does not require the yoke cutting and disassembly work required in conventional technology. Conventional valves required a complex process of disassembling or cutting the valve body and then re-welding it to replace a damaged yoke sleeve. By adopting a structure that is symmetrically separable, the present invention eliminates these unnecessary tasks, thereby simultaneously achieving simplification of maintenance work and cost reduction.

[0084] Thirdly, the present invention solves the safety issues of the prior art through an advanced sealing structure for preventing fluid leakage. The multilayer sealing structure, composed of an upper sealing part (141), a lower sealing part (142), and a unit-contacting sealing part (130), effectively prevents fluid from leaking from inside the valve to the outside. In particular, it maintains sealing performance even in high temperature and high pressure environments, thereby significantly improving safety and reliability at the work site. This is a very important advantage in sensitive environments such as chemical processes or high-pressure lines.

[0085] Fourth, the present invention reduces the burden on workers by providing ease of assembly and maintenance work. In conventional technology, the assembly and disassembly of sleeves were complex and time-consuming, requiring reliance on the skills of a skilled worker. The present invention is designed to automatically align the assembly position of the sleeve through a lateral protruding step portion (151) and a hexagonal nut forming portion (152), and to enable easy assembly and disassembly using a tool. This reduces work time and increases work efficiency.

[0086] Fifth, the present invention ensures a long lifespan and high reliability of the valve. In conventional technology, repetitive maintenance work caused damage to the valve structure itself or degraded sealing performance. Through the use of highly durable materials and precise design, the present invention enables stable operation without performance degradation even during repetitive tasks. This leads to reduced maintenance costs and improved valve reliability in the long run.

[0087] Sixth, the present invention is designed to maintain the stability of the sleeve even under vibration or external shock. In particular, the combination of the stepped portion and the sealing portion prevents the assembled sleeve from shifting out of place or its sealing performance from deteriorating due to external shock. This helps the valve operate stably even in high-vibration environments or under demanding conditions in industrial sites.

[0088] Finally, the present invention provides flexibility applicable in various industrial environments. The structure of the present invention is designed to allow for the application of various materials and design options depending on the usage environment, enabling its use in diverse fields such as chemical processes, oil refining facilities, and hydraulic systems. This overcomes the limitations of conventional technology, which was suitable only for specific environments, and presents a universal solution capable of simultaneously achieving maintenance efficiency and safety.

[0089] The above detailed description of the present invention describes only specific embodiments thereof. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific forms mentioned in the detailed description, but rather should be understood to include all variations, equivalents, and substitutions within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0090] In other words, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments and descriptions described above, and any person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can make various modifications without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the claims, and such modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0091] 100: Detachable valve yoke sleeve 110: 1st Sleeve Unit 120: 2nd Sleeve Unit 130: Unit close-fitting sealing part 141: Upper sealing part 142: Lower sealing part 151: Laterally protruding stepped section 152: Hexagonal nut forming part 153: Bolting connection

Claims

Claim 1 A yoke sleeve mounted on a gate valve that implements opening and closing operations of a pipe by transmitting rotational operation of a handle through a stem, and is mounted in a structure that surrounds the outer surface of the stem to seal the inside, stem, and outside of the gate valve, and is a structure that can be separated in a left-right symmetrical form with respect to the central axis of the stem, and is separated to the left with respect to the central axis of the stem, and is a first sleeve unit (110) that can be disassembled and assembled with a second sleeve unit (120); and a second sleeve unit (120) having a structure that is separated to the right side with respect to the central axis of the stem and is separable from the first sleeve unit (110) and is separable and assembleable; wherein the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) include: a unit contact sealing part (130) having a structure formed at the part where the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) come into contact with each other in a surface contact manner, and having a sealing material applied or coated thereon; an upper sealing part (141) having a structure formed on the upper inner surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) and having a structure that is in contact with the outer surface of the stem in a surface contact manner; and a sealing part having a structure formed on the lower inner surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120) and having a structure that is in contact with the outer surface of the stem in a surface contact manner, and having a sealing material applied or coated thereon A separable valve yoke sleeve characterized by comprising: a lower sealing portion (142) of the structure; a lateral protruding step portion (151) formed on the upper outer surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120), which contacts a part of the upper surface of the gate valve when assembled to the gate valve to fix the position of the separable valve yoke sleeve; a hexagonal nut forming portion (152) formed in the central outer surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120), which allows the separable valve yoke sleeve to be assembled to or disassembled from the gate valve by rotating it using a tool; and a bolting fastening portion (153) formed on the lower outer surface of the first sleeve unit (110) and the second sleeve unit (120), which has a structure with screw threads formed so that it can be bolted to the gate valve. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 delete Claim 4 delete Claim 5 delete

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