Patent ID: 6273125
Filing Date: 2001-08-14
Classification: F16K,Y10T

Abstract:
A lockable valve comprising:a flow control mechanism shiftable into and out of an operating position;an actuator shaft coupled to the flow control mechanism for shifting the flow control mechanism when an actuative force is applied to the actuator shaft;at least one lock coupling secured to the actuator shaft at a location corresponding to the operating position, the lock coupling presenting a first contact surface;at least one lock plate stationarily secured relative to the actuator shaft and operable to allow the actuator shaft to slidably pass therethrough and to receive the lock coupling when the flow control mechanism is in the operating position, the lock plate presenting a second contact surface; andat least one key operable when the lock coupling is received within the lock plate to be inserted between the first and second contact surfaces such that a compressive force is exerted against the key by the contact surfaces when the actuative force acts on the shaft, thereby preventing the flow control mechanism from being shifted out of the operating position.