Check Valve Internal Fluid Trap for Gas Debris Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art check valves in natural gas compressor lubrication systems fail prematurely due to exposure to hot gases and debris, leading to premature failure of sealing surfaces and installation issues with existing protectors, which result in costly repairs and increased environmental pollution.
Innovation Solution
A check valve with an internal fluid trap that prevents backflow of hot gases and debris, featuring a design with multiple fluid reservoirs and an anti-blowout screw to secure the valve components, ensuring reliable operation and easy installation without over-torquing, thus protecting the sealing surfaces from degradation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate check valve protector device is installed on the downstream side, then the sealing surfaces are protected from hot gas and debris, but the device complexity increases and additional lubricant leak paths are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the check valve protector functions directly into the check valve body, merging the sealing surface protection mechanism with the main valve structure. This eliminates the need for a separate protector device while maintaining the protective function, thereby reducing device complexity and eliminating additional leak paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing surface protection mechanism is nested within the check valve body itself, with the protective structure contained inside the valve housing. This nested arrangement allows the protection function to be incorporated without adding external components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the check valve inlet is oriented at a 90 degree position, then the protector can be installed, but installation becomes difficult and extreme stress is placed on threads requiring over-torquing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric thread design with different thread types or configurations on different ports, allowing the valve to be installed in various orientations without requiring 90-degree positioning. This asymmetric approach provides installation flexibility while maintaining ease of installation by eliminating the need for over-torquing.
Solution Approach 2:
The check valve is designed with multiple NPT threads and universal mounting capabilities that allow installation in various positions and orientations. This multi-functional design eliminates the constraint of requiring 90-degree inlet orientation, providing both adaptability and ease of installation without thread stress issues.
3Shape
If over-torquing is applied to position the device correctly, then alignment with system tubing is achieved, but the threads are damaged and the cylinder must be sent to a machine shop for repair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pre-aligned threading and mounting features that ensure correct alignment during installation without requiring excessive torque. The design includes built-in alignment mechanisms and properly positioned threads that guide correct installation, preventing thread damage before it occurs and eliminating costly repair needs.
4Device complexity
If a single NPT thread is used on the outlet, then the device structure is simplified, but installation issues occur and the device must be over-torqued
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates multiple NPT threads on the outlet side, providing universal compatibility and flexible installation options. This multi-thread configuration allows the device to be installed in various positions without requiring over-torquing, maintaining simple structure while improving ease of installation through enhanced adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A check valve includes an internal liquid trap that prevents the backflow of gas and debris from degrading the valve. The internal liquid trap can be formed by internal passages within a valve housing. One embodiment includes a plurality of concentric fluid passages, connected by a set of radial conduits.