Quick Change Check Valve System for Pump Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing check valve systems in reciprocating type fluid pumps require extensive disassembly or piping movement for maintenance, leading to issues like leakage and corrosion, especially with tie-bar systems.
Innovation Solution
A quick change check valve system using adapters and union nuts allows for tool-free removal and installation of check valves without disturbing system piping, utilizing corrosion-resistant materials and a collar mechanism for secure compression and easy accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If tie-bar type check valve clamping mechanism is used, then check valves can be removed for maintenance, but leakage occurs due to misalignment or variations in tightening of tie bar bolts
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the check valve assembly into separable components: the check valve cartridge can be independently removed from the pump head through the quick change mechanism, allowing maintenance without moving piping. The segmentation enables the check valve to be serviced separately while maintaining reliable sealing through the specialized quick change interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick change mechanism acts as an intermediary device between the check valve cartridge and the pump head. This intermediary provides a controlled interface that ensures proper alignment and sealing during installation, eliminating the misalignment problems associated with tie-bar systems while still enabling easy removal for maintenance.
2Ease of repair
If tie-bar type check valve clamping mechanism is used, then check valves can be removed for maintenance, but metal components corrode when exposed to process fluids
Solution Approach 1:
The quick change mechanism allows the check valve cartridge to be extracted from the pump head and removed for maintenance without disturbing the piping. This extraction capability enables the use of corrosion-resistant materials in the check valve components that are exposed to process fluids, while the pump head and piping can remain as separate, non-corroding structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs composite construction where the check valve cartridge can be made from corrosion-resistant materials (such as stainless steel or other suitable materials) while the pump head and piping use different materials optimized for their specific functions. This material differentiation allows each component to be optimized for its environment, with the check valve specifically designed to resist corrosion from process fluids.
3Ease of manufacture
If cartridge-type check valves are used, then check valves can be installed in pump, but extensive disassembly or piping movement is required for removal
Solution Approach 1:
The quick change mechanism introduces dynamic capability to the otherwise static check valve installation. The mechanism allows the check valve cartridge to be quickly inserted and secured in the pump head, and equally quickly removed when maintenance is needed. This dynamic interface transforms the traditional static, permanent installation into a reversible, maintainable connection without requiring disassembly or piping movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick change mechanism is pre-configured with alignment features and sealing elements that guide the check valve cartridge into proper position during installation. This preliminary preparation of the mounting interface ensures correct alignment and sealing from the start, eliminating the need for complex disassembly procedures later when removal is needed for maintenance.
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 rapid and tool-free maintenance of check valves, reducing replacement costs and preventing leakage, while maintaining system integrity and accessibility for various installations.
Implementation Method 1
The check valve is compressed between the inside top wall of the adapter and the valve support
Data Source
AI summary
A system for quickly removing and installing check valve parts without disturbing system piping attached to a pump. The system includes a first adapter attached to the outlet of the pump head. The first adapter includes a valve seat and a housing with a side wall having external threads. A second adapter includes a hollow body with a space for a check valve. The body has an opening in the side wall for inserting the check valve. The second adapter fits over the first adapter and the adapters are attached by means of a collar. Tightening the collar onto the threads on the first adapter causes the check valve to be held firmly between the valve seat and the top wall of the second adapter.