Patent ID: 6789567
Filing Date: 2004-09-14
Classification: F16K,G05D,Y10T

Abstract:
A bi-directional flow control device for regulating a fluid flow to a substantially constant volumetric flow rate, the device comprising:a housing defining a flow passage therethrough; first and second orifices formed separately from the housing and installed in the passage thereof, each orifice being tubular and having a seat defined at one end thereof, each seat having a plurality of flow-control channels extending transversely therein and spaced apart circumferentially, the seat of the second orifice being axially spaced from and facing the seat of the first orifice; a resiliently deformable non-foraminous diaphragm disposed in the passage between the seats of the orifices, whereby flow through the passage in a first direction urges the diaphragm against the seat of the first orifice and flow through the passage in an opposite second direction urges the diaphragm against the seat of the second orifice, the diaphragm in each case deforming into the channels in the seat to varying degrees as a function of pressure differential across the diaphragm such that in either flow direction the flow is regulated to a substantially constant volumetric flow rate over a range of pressure differentials; and a cage formed separately from the housing and installed in the flow passage for holding the diaphragm generally coaxially aligned with the orifices and allowing the diaphragm to float freely between the seats of the orifices.