Check Valve Test Channel for Manual Disc Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Passive check valves in nuclear power plants and piping systems face challenges in verifying their operational readiness without actual flow conditions, and they may remain idle for extended periods, necessitating a reliable testing method to ensure they function correctly during accidents.
Innovation Solution
A check valve apparatus with a movable disc and test channels that allow for manual verification using a test stick to confirm the disc's movement from an open to a closed position, even under low fluid flow conditions, ensuring the valve can close against the bias of a compression spring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a check valve is tested using actual flow conditions, then the operational readiness can be verified, but the testing becomes complex and requires significant fluid flow infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a test stick as an intermediary tool that mediates between the operator and the valve disc. The test stick transmits force manually to move the disc between open and closed positions, eliminating the need for complex flow-based testing infrastructure while still verifying operational readiness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the fluid flow-based mechanical system with a direct manual mechanical system. Instead of using fluid pressure to move the disc during testing, the invention uses a manually operated test stick to apply force directly to the disc, simplifying the testing mechanism.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a check valve sits idle for extended periods, then system operation is maintained, but the valve may fail when needed due to lack of testing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary testing of the check valve during idle periods using the simple test stick mechanism. This preliminary action verifies that the disc can move properly before the valve is needed for actual operation, ensuring reliability after extended idle periods without requiring complex testing infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a test channel is added to the check valve, then testing capability is enabled, but the valve structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The test channel serves multiple functions: it provides a pathway for the test stick to reach the disc, allows verification of disc movement in both directions, and can potentially accommodate different testing scenarios. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural element by providing versatile testing capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and manageable testing of check valves to confirm their operational readiness, ensuring they can prevent reverse flow and protect critical systems during accidents, with reduced fluid requirements and minimal operational disruption.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring configured to bias the movable disc into the open position
Data Source
AI summary
A check valve apparatus includes at least one first test channel including a first pathway extending through a valve body and in communication with a flow path. The pathway is configured to receive a test stick for inserting through the pathway of the test channel to engage a disc such that the disc moves from the open position to the closed position. In further examples, methods for testing a check valve include the step of moving an end of a test stick to engage a downstream face of a disc such that the disc is moved against a bias of a biasing device from the open position to the closed position. The method further includes the step of inspecting an interior portion of the check valve apparatus.