Split-Nut IBC Valve Connector for Leak-Resistant Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intermediate bulk containers face issues with proper connection and sealing of liquid control valves, leading to leakage, which can result in hazardous conditions and damage to surrounding materials.
Innovation Solution
A multipart connector system is introduced, featuring a valve assembly with an elastomeric annular seal and telescopingly mated annular seal positioning walls, along with a multipart connector that includes collar halves with clamping tabs and internal threads, ensuring a complete seal between the valve and tank outlet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a liquid control valve is connected to the tank outlet, then liquid flow control is enabled, but leakage occurs at the connection interface
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple parts: a first collar half and a second collar half that can be assembled separately onto the valve assembly and tank outlet. This segmentation allows for independent positioning and sealing surfaces on each component, creating multiple sealing opportunities and ensuring proper alignment to prevent leakage.
Solution Approach 2:
An elastomeric annular seal is introduced as an intermediary element between the connector components and the sealing surfaces. This elastomeric material deforms to conform to the sealing surfaces, filling microscopic imperfections and creating a reliable leak-resistant barrier while allowing for thermal expansion and contraction.
2Device complexity
If a simple connector design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but sealing performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple parts: a first collar half and a second collar half that can be assembled separately onto the valve assembly and tank outlet. This segmentation allows for independent positioning and sealing surfaces on each component, creating multiple sealing opportunities and ensuring proper alignment to prevent leakage.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing mechanism incorporates radial sealing surfaces in addition to axial positioning, creating a multi-dimensional sealing approach. The annular seal operates in the radial direction while the connector halves provide axial positioning, adding dimensional complexity to the sealing mechanism to ensure complete seal integrity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the outlet annular seal positioning wall extends only a short distance, then device complexity is reduced, but sealing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing mechanism incorporates radial sealing surfaces in addition to axial positioning, creating a multi-dimensional sealing approach. The annular seal operates in the radial direction while the connector halves provide axial positioning, adding dimensional complexity to the sealing mechanism to ensure complete seal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet annular seal positioning wall is designed with a specific extended length that provides adequate radial support for the elastomeric seal at the critical sealing location. This localized structural feature ensures precise seal positioning and uniform contact pressure where it is most needed, without requiring the entire connector structure to be overly complex.
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
The solution effectively prevents leakage, providing a reliable and leak-resistant connection that enhances safety and reduces the risk of damage from fluid spills during handling and transport.
Implementation Method 1
An elastomeric annular seal is positioned between the outer end and the inlet end region and positioned between the outlet annular seal positioning wall and inlet annular seal positioning wall
Data Source
AI summary
An intermediate bulk container, valve and connector system is provided that includes a split nut connector. The split nut connector is rotatably mounted on a valve adapter plate which connects with the valve, and is internally threaded for engagement with external threads on the intermediate bulk container outlet. An O-ring seal is aligned and positioned between the adaptor plate inlet and intermediate bulk container outlet by positioning surfaces to provide compression and sealing between the component engaging surfaces, and sealing contact is provided between corresponding surfaces of the components.