A valve

Abstract

A valve (1) includes a valve body (3) having a bore hole (5) extending therethrough defining a chamber (6), the bore hole (5) having an inlet (7) and an outlet (8) through which a material can flow. The valve (1) further includes a channel (10) extending around the chamber (6), a plate (15) movable along the channel (10) between open and closed configurations to regulate a flow of the material through the chamber (6), a seal (20) operatively associated with the plate (15) to fluidly seal off the bore hole (5) when the valve (1) is in the closed configuration, and a stop (25) on the plate (15) adapted to compress the seal (20) when moving to the closed configuration and decompress or retract the seal (20) when moving to the open configuration.

Description

A VALVEFIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to valves, and more particularly to a high cycle knife gate valve.BACKGROUND

[0002] A knife gate valve typically includes a valve body having a bore hole defining a circular chamber with an inlet and outlet through which a material can flow. A generally planar plate, often termed a "knife", moves between open and closed configurations to regulate the flow of material through the chamber.

[0003] The plate or "knife" is required as often the material flowing through such valves includes particulate matter and therefore has a thickness which needs to be "cut" and / or parted for the valve to operate. Such valves are often used in the mining, paper and / or waste industries where the material in the flow stream is abrasive, gluggy, slurry and / or viscous, there is a low-pressure environment, and the valve is used in an open or closed configuration rather than for partial flow restriction.

[0004] Valves which open and close many times per day wear out due to material fatigue and / or sealing surface friction against the valve's moving parts and / or material in the flow stream, especially if the stream contains some solids or particulate matter. If a valve doesn't close with a complete seal, it will leak, which is undesirable. Knife valves also "chatter" as the plate is moved, which is also undesirable. A change of the valve and / or maintenance to the valve or its parts, is expensive and causes workflow downtime which is disruptive to a business. Such downtime also takes labor resources away from other business matters.

[0005] In an attempt to address such issues, use of more wear resistant materials or different types of valves which reduce friction when cycling has been tested. These types of valves, however, are expensive and still eventually wear out over time and use.

[0006] It has been appreciated that a valve is needed that overcomes one or more of these problems.SUMMARY

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to substantially overcome, or at least ameliorate, one or more of the disadvantages of existing arrangements, or at least provide a useful alternative to existing arrangements.

[0008] There is disclosed herein a valve comprising: a valve body having a bore hole extending therethrough defining a chamber, the bore hole having an inlet and an outlet through which a material can flow; a channel extending around said chamber; a plate movable along said channel between open and closed configurations to regulate a flow of said material through the chamber; a seal operatively associated with the plate to fluidly seal off said bore hole when the valve is in the closed configuration; and a trigger or stop on the plate adapted to compress the seal when moving to the closed configuration and decompress or retract the seal when moving to the open configuration.

[0009] In one embodiment, the stop is coplanar with the plate.

[0010] In one embodiment, the seal comprises a hollow tube.

[0011] In one embodiment, the hollow tube is fluid-filled.

[0012] In one embodiment, the plate comprises a first end, a second end, and sides extending therebetween, the first end having a reduced thickness compared to the second end.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first end is receivable by said channel in said chamber.

[0014] In one embodiment, the valve further comprises a second seal to seal said plate with said body, the second seal located at the second end of the plate.

[0015] In one embodiment, the stop is located on a side of said plate adjacent said second end.

[0016] In one embodiment, the stop comprises a wedge.

[0017] In one embodiment, the valve comprises a plurality of stops.

[0018] In one embodiment, the valve body is made of a material selected from the group consisting of cast iron, cast steel, and stainless steel.

[0019] There is disclosed herein a method of operating a valve, the method comprising: providing the valve as described above;moving the plate between the open and closed configurations; compressing the seal via the stop when moving the plate to the closed configuration; and decompress or retracting the seal via the stop when moving the plate to the open configuration.

[0020] In one embodiment, moving the plate comprises actuating the plate by mechanical, electrical, or pneumatic means.

[0021] In one embodiment, compressing the seal increases a pressure seal between the plate and the valve body.

[0022] In one embodiment, decompress or retracting the seal reduces friction on the plate during movement.

[0023] In one embodiment, when moving the plate to the open position interaction with the stop or stops causes seal retraction or separation from the gate edge to minimise friction and wear, [this is now the main novel part]

[0024] There is disclosed herein a method of manufacturing a valve, the method comprising: forming a valve body with a bore hole extending therethrough defining a chamber, the bore hole having an inlet and an outlet; forming a channel extending around the chamber; providing a plate movable along the channel between open and closed configurations; incorporating a stop on the plate; and providing a seal operatively associated with the plate and interacting with the stop, wherein the valve is the valve as described above.

[0025] In one embodiment, the method further comprises forming the plate with a first end having a reduced thickness compared to a second end.

[0026] In one embodiment, the method further comprises providing a second seal to seal the plate with the valve body.

[0027] In one embodiment, forming the valve body comprises casting the valve body from a material selected from the group consisting of cast iron, cast steel, and stainless steel.

[0028] In one embodiment, providing the seal comprises providing a hollow tube.

[0029] In one embodiment, the method further comprises filling the hollow tube with a fluid.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0030] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawing figures, in which like reference signs designate like parts and in which:

[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates a cutaway view of a valve, showing internal components and structure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The present invention relates to a valve designed for high-cycle applications, particularly in industries dealing with particulate-laden or viscous materials. The valve addresses issues commonly encountered in such applications, including wear, sealing, and friction.

[0033] A valve according to the present invention includes a valve body with a bore hole defining a chamber through which material can flow. The valve body incorporates a channel around the chamber, along which a plate moves to regulate material flow. A seal is operatively associated with the plate to provide fluid sealing when the valve is in a closed configuration. The plate includes a stop feature that interacts with the seal during operation, compressing the seal when closing and decompress or retracting it when opening.

[0034] This valve design aims to reduce friction between moving parts and the flow stream, potentially extending the operational life of the valve. The invention may be applied to various types of valves, including knife gate valves, butterfly valves, ball valves, and plug valves.

[0035] In FIG. 1, a valve 1 includes a valve body 3. The valve body 3 has a bore hole 5 extending therethrough. The bore hole 5 defines a chamber 6 within the valve body 3. The bore hole 5 is generally circular in shape and includes an inlet and an outlet through which material can flow. The inlet and outlet allow material to enter and exit the chamber 6, respectively, when the valve 1 is in an open configuration.

[0036] The valve body 3 may be manufactured from materials such as cast iron, cast steel, or stainless steel. These materials provide durability and resistance to wear, which are beneficial in industrial applications where the valve 1 may be exposed to harsh conditions or abrasive materials.

[0037] The valve body 3 is typically attached to a bearing block 2. This attachment is accomplished using connecting bars 4. The connecting bars 4 are secured to the valve body 3 and the bearing block 2 using fastening components 7 such as threads, bolts, washers, and nuts. This configuration provides a stable mounting for the valve 1 and allows for proper alignment of the internal components.

[0038] The structure of the valve body 3 with its bore hole 5 and chamber 6 forms the primary passageway for material flow through the valve 1. The circular shape of the bore hole 5 facilitates smooth flow of materials and minimises turbulence within the chamber 6. This design is particularly suitable for applications involving particulate-laden or viscous materials, as it reduces the likelihood of material buildup or clogging within the valve 1.

[0039] The valve body 3 includes a channel 10 extending around the chamber 6. The channel 10 is located in the centre of the chamber 6 and bore hole 5, extending around the full circumference. This channel 10 serves as a guide for a plate 15, allowing the plate 15 to move between open and closed configurations to regulate the flow of material through the chamber 6.

[0040] The plate 15 comprises a first end 30, a second end 31, and sides 32 extending therebetween. The first end 30 has a reduced thickness compared to the second end 31. This design allows the first end 30 to be receivable by the channel 10 in the chamber 6. The reduced thickness of the first end 30 facilitates smooth movement of the plate 15 within the channel 10 and helps to minimise friction during operation.

[0041] The plate 15 does not necessarily require a sharp "knife" edge. The primary function of the plate 15 is to separate any material located in the flow stream as the valve 1 opens and closes. The design of the plate 15 with its varying thickness from the first end 30 to the second end 31 allows for effective material separation without the need for a sharp edge.

[0042] As the plate 15 moves along the channel 10, the valve 1 transitions between open and closed configurations. In the open configuration, the plate 15 is positioned to allow material to flow through the bore hole 5 and chamber 6. In the closed configuration, the plate 15 blocks the flow of material, effectively sealing off the bore hole 5.

[0043] The movement of the plate 15 along the channel 10 may be actuated by various means, such as mechanical, electrical, or pneumatic mechanisms. This movement enables the valve 1 to regulate the flow of material through the chamber 6, making the valve 1 suitable for applications requiring precise flow control.

[0044] The valve 1 includes a seal 20 operatively associated with the plate 15 to fluidly seal off the bore hole 5 when the valve 1 is in the closed configuration. The seal 20 comprisesa hollow tube that extends around the chamber 6 within the channel 10. The hollow tube of the seal 20 may be filled with a fluid to enhance its sealing properties.

[0045] A stop 25 is incorporated on the plate 15. The stop 25 is adapted to interact with the seal 20 during the movement of the plate 15 between open and closed configurations. As the plate 15 moves to the closed configuration, the stop 25 compresses the seal 20. This compression increases the pressure seal between the plate 15 and the valve body 3, ensuring a tight seal when the valve 1 is closed. Conversely, when the plate 15 moves to the open configuration, the stop 25 decompress or retractes the seal 20. This decompress or retraction reduces friction on the plate 15 during movement, facilitating smoother operation of the valve 1.

[0046] In the embodiment shown, the stop 25 is coplanar with the plate 15. The stop 25 comprises a wedge-shaped protrusion located on a side 32 of the plate 15 adjacent the second end 31. The wedge shape of the stop 25 allows for gradual compression and decompress or retraction of the seal 20 as the plate 15 moves. In some examples, the valve 1 may comprise a plurality of stops 25 positioned at various points along the sides 32 of the plate 15 to ensure uniform interaction with the seal 20.

[0047] A second seal 40 is provided to seal the plate 15 with the valve body 3. The second seal 40 is located at the second end 31 of the plate 15. This second seal 40 serves to prevent leakage around the edges of the plate 15 when the valve 1 is in the closed configuration, complementing the sealing function of the primary seal 20.

[0048] The combination of the seal 20, stop 25, and second seal 40 creates an effective sealing mechanism for the valve 1. This mechanism allows for reliable operation in high- cycle applications, particularly in industries dealing with particulate-laden or viscous materials where maintaining a tight seal is crucial for process efficiency and safety.

[0049] The valve 1 includes an actuation mechanism for moving the plate 15 between open and closed configurations. This actuation mechanism comprises a spindle 8 and a spindle nut 9. The spindle 8 extends from the bearing block 2 to the plate 15. The spindle nut 9 is operatively connected to the spindle 8 and the plate 15.

[0050] The spindle 8 is rotatably mounted within the bearing block 2. The bearing block 2 provides support and alignment for the spindle 8, ensuring smooth and precise movement of the actuation mechanism. The connecting bars 4 and fastening components 7 secure the bearing block 2 to the valve body 3, maintaining proper positioning of the spindle 8 relative to the other components of the valve 1.

[0051] As the spindle 8 rotates, the spindle nut 9 translates along the length of the spindle 8. This translation of the spindle nut 9 is transferred to the plate 15, causing the plate15 to move along the channel 10 within the valve body 3. The movement of the plate 15 along the channel 10 allows the valve 1 to transition between open and closed configurations.

[0052] When the spindle 8 rotates in one direction, the plate 15 moves towards the closed configuration, where the plate 15 blocks the bore hole 5 and seals off the chamber 6. In this position, the stop 25 on the plate 15 compresses the seal 20, creating a fluid-tight seal. Conversely, when the spindle 8 rotates in the opposite direction, the plate 15 moves towards the open configuration, allowing material to flow through the bore hole 5 and chamber 6. During this movement, the stop 25 decompress or retractes the seal 20, reducing friction on the plate 15.

[0053] The spindle 8 and spindle nut 9 mechanism provides precise control over the position of the plate 15, allowing for accurate regulation of material flow through the valve 1. This actuation mechanism may be driven by various means, such as manual operation, electric motors, or hydraulic systems, depending on the specific application requirements of the valve 1.

[0054] The valve 1 comprises several components that are assembled to create a functional unit. The valve body 3 is attached to the bearing block 2 using connecting bars 4. The connecting bars 4 provide structural support and maintain proper alignment between the valve body 3 and the bearing block 2. This connection is secured using fastening components 7, which may include threads, bolts, washers, and nuts.

[0055] The attachment of the valve body 3 to the bearing block 2 serves multiple purposes in the overall valve structure. Firstly, the bearing block 2 provides a stable mounting point for the spindle 8, ensuring that the spindle 8 remains properly aligned with the plate 15 during operation. Secondly, this assembly allows for the transfer of force from the spindle 8 to the plate 15, enabling the movement of the plate 15 between open and closed configurations.

[0056] The connecting bars 4 are designed to withstand the operational forces exerted on the valve 1 during use. These bars 4 help distribute the load evenly across the valve assembly, reducing stress on individual components and enhancing the overall durability of the valve 1.

[0057] The fastening components 7 used to secure the connecting bars 4 to the valve body 3 and bearing block 2 are selected to provide a secure and reliable connection. The choice of fastening components 7 may depend on factors such as the expected operational conditions, the materials used in the valve construction, and the required maintenance procedures.

[0058] In the assembled valve 1, the bore hole 5 in the valve body 3 aligns with the channel 10, allowing the plate 15 to move freely between open and closed positions. Thespindle 8, mounted in the bearing block 2, extends through to connect with the plate 15 via the spindle nut 9. This arrangement ensures that the rotational motion of the spindle 8 is translated into linear motion of the plate 15 along the channel 10.

[0059] The assembly of these components creates a robust and functional valve structure capable of withstanding the demands of high-cycle applications in industrial settings. The design allows for efficient operation while providing accessibility for maintenance and potential component replacement if needed.

[0060] The valve 1 operates through the coordinated interaction of its various components to regulate the flow of material through the bore hole 5 and chamber 6. The plate 15 moves along the channel 10 between open and closed configurations, driven by the spindle 8 and spindle nut 9 mechanism.

[0061] When transitioning to the closed configuration, the spindle 8 rotates, causing the spindle nut 9 to move the plate 15 along the channel 10. As the plate 15 approaches the fully closed position, the stop 25 on the plate 15 engages with the seal 20. The wedge-shaped design of the stop 25 gradually compresses the seal 20 as the plate 15 continues to move. This compression action increases the pressure between the plate 15 and the valve body 3, creating a fluid-tight seal when the valve 1 is fully closed.

[0062] In the closed configuration, the compressed seal 20 effectively blocks the flow of material through the bore hole 5 and chamber 6. The second seal 40, located at the second end 31 of the plate 15, further enhances the sealing effect by preventing leakage around the edges of the plate 15.

[0063] To open the valve 1, the spindle 8 rotates in the opposite direction, causing the plate 15 to move away from the closed position. As the plate 15 begins to move, the stop 25 gradually releases the compression on the seal 20. This decompress or retraction reduces the friction between the plate 15 and the seal 20, allowing for smoother movement of the plate 15 along the channel 10.

[0064] As the plate 15 continues to move towards the open configuration, the bore hole 5 and chamber 6 become unobstructed, allowing material to flow through the valve 1. The reduced friction during the opening process, facilitated by the interaction between the stop 25 and the seal 20, contributes to the efficient operation of the valve 1 in high-cycle applications.

[0065] The design of the plate 15, with its first end 30 having a reduced thickness compared to the second end 31, allows for smooth entry into the channel 10 and efficient separation of material in the flow stream. This design, combined with the gradual compression and decompress or retraction action of the stop 25 on the seal 20, enables the valve 1 to operate effectively in applications involving particulate-laden or viscous materials.

[0066] The bearing block 2, connected to the valve body 3 by the connecting bars 4 and fastening components 7, provides stable support for the spindle 8. This stable mounting ensures precise control over the movement of the plate 15, contributing to the reliable operation of the valve 1 in various industrial settings.

[0067] The valve design described in this invention may offer several advantages:

[0068] The compression and decompress or retraction mechanism of the seal, facilitated by the stop on the plate, may provide improved sealing performance when closed while reducing friction during opening and closing operations. This design may contribute to enhanced longevity of the valve components and more efficient operation in high-cycle applications.

[0069] The variable thickness of the plate, with a reduced thickness at the first end, may allow for smoother movement within the channel and more effective separation of materials in the flow stream. This feature may be particularly beneficial when handling particulateladen or viscous materials.

[0070] The use of a hollow, fluid-filled tube as the primary seal may offer flexibility in sealing performance. The fluid inside the tube may be selected or adjusted to optimize sealing properties for specific applications or operating conditions.

[0071] The inclusion of a second seal at the second end of the plate may provide additional protection against leakage, potentially improving the overall reliability and performance of the valve in demanding industrial environments.

[0072] The wedge-shaped design of the stop may allow for gradual compression and decompress or retraction of the seal, which may result in more consistent sealing pressure and reduced wear on the seal over time.

[0073] The robust construction, including the use of connecting bars and a bearing block, may enhance the structural integrity of the valve assembly. This design may improve the valve's ability to withstand operational forces and maintain alignment of critical components.

[0074] The valve's design may allow for various actuation methods, including mechanical, electrical, or pneumatic mechanisms. This flexibility may make the valve suitable for a wide range of industrial applications and control systems.

[0075] The overall design of the valve may facilitate easier maintenance and potential component replacement, which may reduce downtime and maintenance costs in industrial settings.

[0076] The valve's ability to effectively handle particulate-laden and viscous materials may make it particularly well-suited for use in industries such as paper manufacturing, wastewater treatment, and chemical processing.

[0077] Features of any of the examples or embodiments outlined above may be combined to create additional examples or embodiments without losing the intended effect. It should be understood that the description of an embodiment or example provided above is by way of example only, and various modifications could be made by one skilled in the art. Furthermore, one skilled in the art will recognise that numerous further modifications and combinations of various aspects are possible.

[0078] Integers1 valve2 bearing block3 valve body4 connecting bars5 bore hole6 chamber7 fastening components8 spindle9 spindle nut10 channel15 plate20 seal25 stop30 first end31 send end32 sides40 second seal

Claims

CLAIMS1. A valve comprising: a valve body having a bore hole extending therethrough defining a chamber, the bore hole having an inlet and an outlet through which a material can flow; a channel extending around said chamber; a plate movable along said channel between open and closed configurations to regulate a flow of said material through the chamber; a seal operatively associated with the plate to fluidly seal off said bore hole when the valve is in the closed configuration; and a stop on the plate adapted to compress the seal when moving to the closed configuration and decompress or retract the seal when moving to the open configuration.

2. The valve of claim 1, wherein the stop is coplanar with the plate.

3. The valve of claim 1, wherein the seal comprises a hollow tube.

4. The valve of claim 3, wherein the hollow tube is fluid-filled.

5. The valve of claim 1, wherein the plate comprises a first end, a second end, and sides extending therebetween, the first end having a reduced thickness compared to the second end.

6. The valve of claim 5, wherein the first end is receivable by said channel in said chamber.

7. The valve of claim 5 or 6, further comprising a second seal to seal said plate with said body, the second seal located at the second end of the plate.

8. The valve of any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the stop is located on a side of said plate adjacent said second end.

9. The valve of claim 1 or 8, wherein the stop comprises a wedge.

10. The valve of any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of stops.

11. The valve of any preceding claim, wherein the valve body is made of a material selected from the group consisting of cast iron, cast steel, and stainless steel.

12. A method of operating a valve, the method comprising: providing the valve of any one of claims 1 to 11; moving the plate between the open and closed configurations; compressing the seal via the stop when moving the plate to the closed configuration; anddecompress or retracting the seal via the stop when moving the plate to the open configuration.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein moving the plate comprises actuating the plate by mechanical, electrical, or pneumatic means.

14. The method of claim 12 or 13, wherein compressing the seal increases a pressure seal between the plate and the valve body.

15. The method of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein decompress or retracting the seal reduces friction on the plate during movement.

16. A method of manufacturing a valve, the method comprising: forming a valve body with a bore hole extending therethrough defining a chamber, the bore hole having an inlet and an outlet; forming a channel extending around the chamber; providing a plate movable along the channel between open and closed configurations; incorporating a stop on the plate; and providing a seal operatively associated with the plate and interacting with the stop, wherein the valve is the valve of any one of claims 1 to 11.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising forming the plate with a first end having a reduced thickness compared to a second end.

18. The method of claim 16 or 17, further comprising providing a second seal to seal the plate with the valve body.

19. The method of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein forming the valve body comprises casting the valve body from a material selected from the group consisting of cast iron, cast steel, and stainless steel.

20. The method of any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein providing the seal comprises providing a hollow tube.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising filling the hollow tube with a fluid.

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