Patent Publication Number: US-11644113-B2

Title: Break check valve for hydrant

Description:
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/428,742, filed May 31, 2019, which is hereby specifically incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Field of Use 
     This disclosure relates to hydrants. More specifically, this disclosure relates to break check valves for hydrants and particularly wet barrel hydrants. 
     Related Art 
     Property damage and water loss can occur when a hydrant—in particular a wet barrel fire hydrant—is hit by a moving vehicle or otherwise broken free from its usual position in a water distribution system. While an in-line valve could mitigate such property damage and water loss, such valves can be large and cumbersome, expensive, and ineffective in one way or another. Because of the number of hydrants in a typical water distribution system, an overly complex break check valve can be impractical. Moreover, overly rapid closure of such a valve can cause not only water hammer but also a pressure spike resulting in an excessive load on the components of the system sufficient in some cases to cause a failure of one or more of those components. 
     SUMMARY 
     It is to be understood that this summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. This summary is exemplary and not restrictive, and it is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor delineate the scope thereof. The sole purpose of this summary is to explain and exemplify certain concepts of the disclosure as an introduction to the following complete and extensive detailed description. 
     In one aspect, disclosed is a hydrant comprising: a hydrant body defining a hydrant inner cavity, the hydrant body configured to couple to and be in fluid communication with a fluid distribution system comprising a fluid therein under pressure; and a break check valve coupled to the hydrant body, the valve comprising: a valve body defining a valve inner cavity, the valve inner cavity defining a valve bore, the valve bore defining a longitudinal axis of the valve body; a pivot pin positioned within the valve inner cavity and secured to the valve body, an axis of the pivot pin offset in a radial direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the valve body by an offset distance; and a valve member positioned within the valve inner cavity and configured to rotate about the pivot pin from an open position to a closed position of the valve, the valve member comprising a plate and an arm extending from the plate, the arm in contact with the hydrant body and configured to prevent movement of the valve member when the hydrant body is coupled to the valve. 
     In a further aspect, disclosed is a break check valve for a hydrant, the valve comprising: a valve body defining a mating surface and a valve inner cavity defining a valve bore; a pivot pin positioned inside the valve inner cavity and secured to the valve body, an axis of the pivot pin offset in a radial direction with respect to a longitudinal axis of the valve body by an offset distance; and a valve member positioned within the valve inner cavity and configured to rotate about the pivot pin from an open position to a closed position of the valve, the valve member comprising a plate and an arm extending from the plate, the valve member configured to remain in the open position of the valve as long as a mating surface of the hydrant remains in contact with the mating surface of the valve body, the valve member further configured to close when the mating surface of the hydrant is separated from the mating surface of the valve body. 
     In yet another aspect, disclosed is a break check valve for a hydrant, the valve comprising: a valve body defining a mating surface and a valve inner cavity defining a valve bore; a pivot pin positioned inside the valve inner cavity and secured to the valve body; and a valve member positioned within the valve inner cavity and configured to rotate about the pivot pin from an open position to a closed position of the valve, the valve member comprising a plate and an arm extending from the plate, the valve member extending across the valve bore and configured to substantially stop flow of fluid therethrough when the valve is in the closed position, the valve member configured to remain in the open position of the valve as long as a mating surface of the hydrant remains in contact with the mating surface of the valve body, the valve member further configured to close when the mating surface of the hydrant is separated from the mating surface of the valve body. 
     Various implementations described in the present disclosure may comprise additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which may not necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within the present disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims. The features and advantages of such implementations may be realized and obtained by means of the systems, methods, features particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the disclosure and together with the description, serve to explain various principles of the disclosure. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Corresponding features and components throughout the figures may be designated by matching reference characters for the sake of consistency and clarity. 
         FIG.  1    is a side view of a hydrant assembled to a break check valve in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure and together assembled to a water distribution system. 
         FIG.  2    is a side view of the hydrant of  FIG.  1    after its dislocation from the break check valve of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  3    is a top perspective view of the break check valve of  FIG.  1    in an open position, which can be an unactuated position. 
         FIG.  4    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  1    in the open position taken along line  4 - 4  of  FIG.  3   . 
         FIG.  5    is a sectional perspective view of the break check valve of  FIG.  1    proximate to a closed position, which can be an actuated position, also taken along line  4 - 4  of  FIG.  3   . 
         FIG.  6    is a top perspective view of a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure in a partially closed position. 
         FIG.  7    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  6    in a closed position. 
         FIG.  8    is a top perspective view of a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure in an open position. 
         FIG.  9    is a top view of the break check valve of  FIG.  8   . 
         FIG.  10    is a sectional view of the break check valve of  FIG.  8    taken along line  10 - 10  of  FIG.  9    and shown in an open position. 
         FIG.  11    is a sectional view of the break check valve of  FIG.  8    taken along line  10 - 10  of  FIG.  9    and shown in a partially closed position. 
         FIG.  12    is a sectional view of the break check valve of  FIG.  8    taken along line  10 - 10  of  FIG.  9    and shown in a closed position. 
         FIG.  13    is a top perspective view of a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure in a closed position. 
         FIG.  14    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  13    in a partially closed position. 
         FIG.  15    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  13    in a closed position. 
         FIG.  16    is a partial sectional perspective view of the hydrant of  FIG.  1    assembled to a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. 
         FIG.  17    is a top perspective view of the break check valve of  FIG.  16    in a closed position. 
         FIG.  18    is an exploded top perspective view of the break check valve of  FIG.  16    in an open position. 
         FIG.  19    is an exploded top perspective view of a valve member of the break check valve of  FIG.  16   . 
         FIG.  20    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  16    in a partially closed position taken along line  20 - 20  of  FIG.  17   . 
         FIG.  21    is a sectional front view of the break check valve of  FIG.  16    in a partially closed position taken along line  21 - 21  of  FIG.  20   . 
         FIG.  22    is a sectional front view of a break check valve of  FIG.  16    in an open position in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. 
         FIG.  23    is a bottom perspective view of a break check valve subassembly of the break check valve of  FIG.  22   . 
         FIG.  24    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  22    in a closed position. 
         FIG.  25    is a top perspective view of a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. 
         FIG.  26    is an exploded top perspective view of a dampener of the break check valve of  FIG.  25   . 
         FIG.  27    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  25    taken along line  27 - 27  of  FIG.  25   . 
         FIG.  28    is a top perspective view of a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. 
         FIG.  29    is an exploded top perspective view of a dampener of the break check valve of  FIG.  28   . 
         FIG.  30    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  28    taken along line  30 - 30  of  FIG.  28   . 
         FIG.  31    is a top perspective view of a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. 
         FIG.  32    is a side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  31   . 
         FIG.  33    is a top perspective view of the break check valve of  FIG.  31    in a partially closed position. 
         FIG.  34    is a top perspective view of the break check valve of  FIG.  31    in a closed position. 
         FIG.  35    is a top perspective view of a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. 
         FIG.  36    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  35    in an open position taken along line  36 - 36  of  FIG.  35   . 
         FIG.  37    is a top perspective view of a break check valve in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. 
         FIG.  38    is a sectional side view of the break check valve of  FIG.  35    in a closed position and taken along line  36 - 36  of  FIG.  35   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present disclosure can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. 
     The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of the present devices, systems, and/or methods in their best, currently known aspect. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present disclosure without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present disclosure are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure and not in limitation thereof. 
     As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a quantity of one of a particular element can comprise two or more such elements unless the context indicates otherwise. In addition, any of the elements described herein can be a first such element, a second such element, and so forth (e.g., a first widget and a second widget, even if only a “widget” is referenced). 
     Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect comprises from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about” or “substantially,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. 
     For purposes of the current disclosure, a material property or dimension measuring about X or substantially X on a particular measurement scale measures within a range between X plus an industry-standard upper tolerance for the specified measurement and X minus an industry-standard lower tolerance for the specified measurement. Because tolerances can vary between different materials, processes and between different models, the tolerance for a particular measurement of a particular component can fall within a range of tolerances. 
     As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description comprises instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. 
     The word “or” as used herein means any one member of a particular list and also comprises any combination of members of that list. The phrase “at least one of A and B” as used herein means “only A, only B, or both A and B”; while the phrase “one of A and B” means “A or B.” 
     To simplify the description of various elements disclosed herein, the conventions of “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “inside,” “outside,” “inboard,” “outboard,” “horizontal,” and/or “vertical” may be referenced. Unless stated otherwise, “front” describes that end of the hydrant shown in  FIG.  1   ; “rear” is that end of the hydrant that is opposite or distal the front; “left” is that which is to the left of or facing left from the position of the hydrant as oriented in  FIG.  1   ; and “right” is that which is to the right of or facing right from the position of the hydrant as oriented in  FIG.  1   . “Horizontal” or “horizontal orientation” describes that which is in a plane extending from left to right and aligned with the horizon. “Vertical” or “vertical orientation” describes that which is in a plane that is angled at 90 degrees to the horizontal. 
     In one aspect, a break check valve for a hydrant and associated methods, systems, devices, and various apparatuses are disclosed herein. In one aspect, the break check valve can comprise an arm, a valve member, and/or a dampener and can define a hole in fluid communication with an inner cavity of each of the hydrant and the valve. 
       FIGS.  1 - 5    shows a hydrant  80  assembled to a break check valve  100  in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  1    specifically is a side view of the hydrant  80  assembled to the valve  100  along an axis  101  of the hydrant  80  and an axis  201  of the valve  100 , each of which can be a longitudinal axis of the hydrant  80  and the valve  100 , respectively. The hydrant  80  and the break check valve  100  can form a portion of a fluid or water distribution system  50 , which can comprise and contain a fluid under pressure, such as water. The hydrant  80  can be secured to a top flange  220  (shown in  FIG.  2   ) of the break check valve  100  with a frangible connection such as, for example and without limitation, a traffic flange  90 . The traffic flange  90  can be secured to the hydrant  80  with fasteners (not shown) such as, for example, through-bolts configured to extend through mounting holes (not shown) defined in each of the traffic flange  90  and mounting holes  1680  (shown in  FIG.  16   ) defined in a mounting flange  85  of the hydrant  80 . The break check valve  100 , and specifically a bottom flange  230  thereof, can itself be secured to a pipe fitting  170  or a pipe fitting  180 , where either of the pipe fittings  170 , 180  can be any one of a variety of components of the system  50  such as, for example and without limitation, an extension barrel, a hydrant shoe, and simply a pipe of some length adequate to connect to another portion of the system  50 . The fasteners can extend, for example, through mounting holes  1685  (shown in  FIG.  16   ) defined in the bottom flange  230  and mounting holes (not shown) defined in a one of the pipe fittings  170 , 180 . The hydrant  80  can be configured to couple to and be in fluid communication with these and other portions of the system  50 . 
     Even while still assembled to the mounting flange  85  of the hydrant  80 , the traffic flange  90  can be configured to fail before other components of the system  50  and permit complete dislocation of the hydrant  80  from the system  50  upon impact to the hydrant  80  by an object such as a moving vehicle (in other words, when the hydrant  80  is run over and knocked off by the vehicle). Because the traffic flange  90  is frangible, the valve  100  itself and other components of the system  50  need not be frangible themselves. 
     As shown, the hydrant  80  can be a wet barrel hydrant. In a wet barrel hydrant during its normal operation, a hydrant inner cavity  1602  (shown in  FIG.  16   ) is filled with a fluid of the system  50 —again, typically water in the case of the hydrant  80 . Also in a wet barrel hydrant during its normal operation, a valve inner cavity  214  (shown in  FIG.  16   ) is in fluid communication with both the hydrant inner cavity  1602  and an inner cavity  1604  (shown in  FIG.  16   ) of the pipe fitting  180  and the break check valve  100  is open or unactuated. 
       FIG.  2    is a side view of the hydrant  80  after its dislocation from the break check valve  100 . The valve  100  can comprise a valve body  210  and a valve member  250  configured to move inside the valve body  210  of the break check valve  100  about a pivot shaft or pivot pin  240 . The pivot pin  240  can extend through the valve member  250 , which can be configured to rotate about the pivot pin  240  from an open or unactuated position A (shown in  FIG.  4   ) to a closed or actuated position B (represented by a dotted line in  FIG.  4   ). 
     Dislocation of the hydrant  80 , which can result from the aforementioned impact by a moving vehicle but can also result from other circumstances, could cause significant water loss were it not for immediate actuation or closure of the break check valve  100 . Without the break check valve  100 , this water loss is possible because the hydrant  80 , at least when it is a wet barrel hydrant, is filled or pressurized with water. In some aspects, as shown, closure of the break check valve  100  can be evident by rotation of the valve member  250  inside the valve body  210  about the pivot pin  240 . As shown, a disc or plate  450  (shown in  FIG.  4   ) of the valve  100  can be centered in the valve  100  and aligned with or along the axis  201 , and the pivot pin  240  can extend orthogonally through the axis  201 . The valve  100  can define a first end  205  and a second end  206  distal from the first end  205 . 
       FIG.  3    is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100  in the open position A (shown in  FIG.  4   ). The break check valve  100  can comprise the valve body  210 , which can define an outer surface  211  and an inner surface  212 . The valve body  210  can further define a valve inner cavity  214  defining a valve bore  217 . In some aspects, as shown, the valve body  210  can define mounting holes  280   a  (defining a first hole pattern) and mounting holes  280   b  (defining a second hole pattern) in the bottom flange  230 . The valve member  250  can define an arm  260 , which can rest on the valve body  210  in a horizontal position H when the valve member  250  is in the open position A. The valve member  250  can define a tab  270 , which can rest on the valve body  210 —and specifically in a detent or stop  290  defined in the valve body  210 —when the valve  100  is in the closed position B (shown in  FIG.  4   ). The valve body  210  can define a groove or recess  228 , which can be sized to receive a seal (not shown), such as an O-ring or any other type of annular gasket, for sealing between the valve  100  and the hydrant  80  when assembled together. The valve body  210  can define a pivot bore  310 , which can be defined as a cylindrical bore and within which the pivot pin  240  can rotate. 
       FIG.  4    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  in the open position A. While the hydrant  80  is not shown in  FIG.  4   , the valve  100  is shown with the valve member  250  in the open position A as if the mounting flange  85  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the hydrant  80  were mated to a mating surface  207  of the valve body  210  of the valve  100  and holding down the arm  260  of the valve member  250 . The arm  260  can be in contact with the mounting flange  85  of the hydrant  80  and can be configured to prevent movement of the valve member  250  in a clockwise direction from the open position A to the closed position B when the hydrant  80  is coupled to the valve  100 . To prevent rotation of the arm  260  beyond the horizontal position H in a counterclockwise direction, the valve body  210  can define a pocket or stop notch  410  proximate to the first end  205 . As shown, the valve  100  can define an installation height  480  measured from the first end  205  to the second end  206 . When the valve member  250  is in the open position A, a plane defined by the valve member  250  can be aligned with the open position A. The same plane can be aligned with the valve member  250  when the valve member  250  is in the closed position B. 
     The stop notch  410  can be sized to receive a distal portion or pin or tip  262  of the arm  260 . More specifically, the stop notch  410  can define a bottom  412  and a side wall  414  and can be sized to receive the tip  262  of the arm  260 . Each of a height  415  of the side wall  414  of the stop notch  410  and a distance  417  from the bottom  412  of the stop notch  410  to the mating surface  207  of the valve body  210  can be at least a thickness  510  (shown in  FIG.  5   ) of the tip  262  of the arm  260 . 
     The valve member  250  can comprise the disc or plate  450 , which can define a first side  453  and a second side  454  and can rotate about the pivot pin  240 . In some aspects, a pivot bore  458  of the valve member  250  can be sized to receive the pivot pin  240  with an interference fit and the valve member  250  and the pivot pin  240  can rotate together inside the valve body  210 . In other aspects, the pivot bore  458  of the valve member  250  can be sized to receive the pivot pin  240  with a looser non-interference fit and the valve member  250  can as a result rotate with respect to the pivot pin  240 . 
     The plate  450 , which in some aspects can be a single disc as shown, can be oriented at a bias angle  470  with respect to the axis  201  of the valve  100 . By being oriented at the bias angle  470 , the valve member  250  is positioned to close naturally and automatically in a desired direction (towards the closed position B) upon dislocation of the hydrant  80 . This is because a fluid pressure or water pressure inside the system  50  and normally acting inside the valve  100  and the hydrant  80 , instead of pushing up against the first side  453 , which faces away from the second end  206  of the valve body  210 , pushes up against the second side  454  of the plate  450 . The plate  450  can define a radius R on a perimeter or circumference thereof, including at the tab  270 . The plate  450  can define a thickened portion  460 , which can be thickened related to other portions of the plate  450  to strengthen the plate  450  proximate to the pivot bore  458 . The thickened portion  460  can extend from and define either or both of the first side  453 , as shown in  FIG.  3   , and the second side  454 . As shown, the arm  260  and the plate  450  of the valve member  250  can be formed as a monolithic component of the valve  100  or be monolithic with respect to each other, where “monolithic” means at least to be cast, molded, or otherwise formed as a single piece. More specifically, each monolithic component can be formed from a single material in a single operation and without any welds or mechanical connections such as threading, flanges, fasteners, interference fits, adhesives, brazing, soldering, or other mechanical methods of connection, at least to join the features described as being monolithic. 
       FIG.  5    is a sectional perspective view of the break check valve  100  with the valve member  250  in a position proximate to but not yet in the closed position B (shown in  FIG.  4   ). The tab  270  is also proximate to the stop  290  and can stop rotation of the valve member  250  upon contact with the stop  290 . When the valve member  250  is in the closed position B, the arm  260  of the valve member  250  can be oriented substantially vertically, at an angle substantially orthogonal to the horizontal position H, or at the bias angle  470  (shown in  FIG.  4   ). As shown, a proximal portion or base  264  of the arm  260  can be wider than the tip  262  of the arm  260  to, for example, increase resistance to bending of the arm  260  when under a mechanical load. As shown, each side of the valve member  250  can define the same surface area, which can result in the valve member  250  remaining in or around the closed position B once the valve  100  actuates or closes. 
     In some aspects, the valve member  250  and the valve body  210  of the valve  100  can define a gap therebetween such as around a perimeter of the valve member  250 . Such a gap can allow the valve to expel a stream of water from the valve  100 , even though the valve  100  is closed, for reasons discussed below. In some aspects, the gap generally or a gap between the tab  270  and the stop  290  (or both gaps) can be made tight enough that initial closing of the valve member  250  will drive the valve member  250  into the stop  290  and friction will help maintain the valve member  250  in the closed position B even when, for example, the flow of fluid in the system from the valve in a typical flow direction  570  and around the valve  100  is turbulent due to the system  50  being breached by the dislocation of the hydrant  80 . 
       FIGS.  6  and  7    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  6    specifically is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100  shown while in a partially closed position. In some aspects, as shown, the plate  450  can be an offset plate or offset disc in which the pivot pin  240  defines an axis that is offset from a center of the valve or, more specifically, the axis  201  by an offset distance  1220  (shown in  FIG.  7   ). As shown, the valve  100  can comprise a dampener  610 , which can be configured to slow a rotational speed of the valve member  250  proximate to the closed position B. In some aspects, the dampener  610  can comprise a biasing member  720  (shown in  FIG.  7   ) such as, for example and without limitation, a coil spring. In some aspects, as shown, the biasing member  720  can be more specifically a compression spring. In other aspects, the biasing member  720  can be another type of spring configured to stop the movement of the valve member  250 . In some aspects such as those involving the compression of a mechanical element that stores and then releases energy (e.g., the biasing member  720 ), the dampener  610  can be a mechanical dampener configured to mechanically dampen the valve member  250  of the valve  100 . 
       FIG.  7    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  of  FIG.  6    with the valve member  250  proximate to and angularly past the closed position B. The valve body  210  can comprise a support pad  710 , which can support the dampener  610  as shown. The dampener  610  can define a first end  715  and a second end  716 . The valve member  250  can contact the first end  715  of the dampener  610 , and the second end  716  can contact and be supported by the support pad  710 . Moreover, the dampener  610  can extend vertically upward away from the support pad  710 , and the stop notch  410  can be positioned on an opposite side of the valve body from the dampener  610 . By not only contacting but also compressing the dampener  610 , the dampener  610  can slow down the rotation of the valve member  250  and thereby cushion closing of the valve  100 . Under normal pressures in the system  50 , the dampener  610  can stop the valve member  250  from over-rotating past the closed position B. As shown, in the process of slowing the rotation of the valve member  250  the dampener  610  can allow the dampener  610  and specifically the biasing member  720  to compress or otherwise change shape more than it would under normal conditions and can allow the valve member  250  to rotate beyond the closed position B and then return to the closed position B after energy stored by the dampener  610  during rotation of the valve member beyond the closed position B pushes the valve member  250  back to the closed position B. Over-rotation of the valve member  250  can have a further benefit of allowing some fluid in the system  50  to escape from the valve, relieving the pressure in the system  50 , especially when there is a pressure spike. This way, the valve  100  can act as a pressure relief valve, which can reduce the water pressure from what it otherwise would be with the hydrant  80  dislocated from the system  50 . 
     In various aspects disclosed above and below, slowing the closing speed of the plate  450 , the valve member  250 , and the valve  100  overall can reduce the risk of water hammer occurring in the system  50  upon the closing of the valve  100 . Water hammer can result from an overly rapid deceleration of fluid within the system  50  such as may occur when a valve such as the valve  100  closes. Such rapid deceleration of the valve member  250  from quickly stopping or slowing the momentum of the fluid can cause not only water hammer but also a pressure spike resulting in an excessive load on the components of the system  50  sufficient in some cases to cause failures of those components, especially when aged or otherwise compromised. Slowing the valve member  250  can dissipate the energy of the moving fluid or the momentum of the fluid and lower or limit the pressure spike experienced by the system  50  at final closure of the valve  100 . 
       FIGS.  8 - 12    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  8    specifically is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100  shown while in an open position. As shown, the valve body  210  can be formed without either of the top flange  220  or the bottom flange  230  (both shown in  FIG.  3   ). The valve body  210 , however, can define the stop  290 , which can be a ledge or flange extending from the valve bore  217 . 
       FIG.  9    is a top view of the break check valve  100  of  FIG.  8   . As shown, the arm  260  can be aligned with a centerline of the plate  450  and with a first transverse axis  903  of the valve body  210 . Both a center of the plate  450  and the pivot pin  240  can be offset along a direction of the first transverse axis  903  from a second transverse axis  904  and from the axis  201 . 
       FIG.  10    is a sectional view of the break check valve  100  of  FIG.  8    while in the open position A. A second side surface  452  of the second side  454  of the plate  450  of the valve member  250  can be angled at a bias angle  1070  with respect to a direction aligned with the axis  201  of the valve  100 . Whether or not the plate  450  itself is angularly biased towards the first transverse axis  903  or the closed position B, similarly as discussed above, orienting the second side surface  452  at the bias angle  1070  can position the valve member  250  to close naturally and automatically upon dislocation of the hydrant  80  similar to biasing or angling some other portion of the plate  450  of the valve member  250 . As shown, the pivot pin  240  and the pivot bore  458  can define a gap  1080  therebetween. In fact, the pivot bore  458  can be elongated with respect to the pivot pin  240  or with a larger diameter than necessary to simply permit rotation of the plate  450  with respect to the pivot pin  240  to ensure that the valve member  250  will rotate about the pivot pin  240  without any hesitation due to friction or due to binding by any other means during operation of the valve  100 . As shown, the tip  262  of the arm  260  can be sloped or angled with respect to a longitudinal direction of the arm  260  to ensure that the arm  260  does not catch or hang on any portion of the stop notch  410  during opening or closing of the valve  100 . 
       FIGS.  11  and  12    are sectional views of the break check valve  100  of  FIG.  8    showing the valve member  250  in partially closed and closed positions, respectively. The first side  453  of the plate  450  of the valve member  250  can define a first side surface  451 , which can comprise a contact portion  455  for contacting the stop  290 , which can be a ledge, of the valve body  210 . With the valve member in the closed position B, the contact portion  455  (shown in  FIG.  11   ) can contact the stop  290  and effectively close the valve  100 . Water pressure pushing against the second side surface  452  of the second side  454  can keep the valve  100  in the closed position B. By offsetting the contact portion  455  from a center of the pivot pin  240  in an axial direction and towards an upstream direction (i.e., away from the hydrant  80  and towards the source of the fluid or water in the system  50 ) with respect to the axis  201  by an offset distance  1210  and by offsetting a center of the pivot pin  240  in a radial direction with respect to the axis  201  by the offset distance  1220 , the water pressure pushing against the second side surface  452  of the second side  454  can keep the valve  100  naturally in the closed position B. This can be the case because a greater portion of surface area of the second side surface  452  can be to the left of the pivot pin  240  as shown and therefore the amount of pressure tending to rotate the valve member  250  in a clockwise direction (and therefore tending to keep the valve member  250  in the closed position B) can be greater than the amount of pressure tending to rotate the valve in the counterclockwise direction (and tending to open the valve member  250 ). In other words, the side of the valve member  250  with less surface area and, more specifically, the fluid pressure against it will resist closure of the valve member  250 , but the side of the valve member  250  with greater surface area will have greater pressure behind it, resulting in eventual (if not relatively speedy) closure of the valve member  250 . 
     In any case, the measured closing without slamming of the valve member  250  can allow the momentum of the fluid or water in the system  50  to dissipate, which can result in a lower pressure spike upon closure. The offset distance  1210  can allow the stop  290  shown to extend over the center of balance or a point of stable equilibrium of the valve member  250 , which can be through a centroid of the area of the valve member  250  that the fluid pressure is acting on. Also as a result of the offset distance  1210  or the offset distance  1220  or both together, an increased load can be carried by the stop  290  and less by the pivot pin  240 . More specifically, the pressure against the larger “closing” side of the plate  450  of the valve member  250  can be partially or fully transferred to the stop  290 . The offset distance  1210 , the offset distance  1220 , a spring constant of the dampener  610 , and other variables, where present, can be adjusted or tuned so that the valve member  250  rotates and slows at the desired speed and does or does not rotate beyond the closed position B. 
       FIGS.  13 - 15    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  13    specifically is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100  in the closed position B. Again, the valve  100  can comprise the dampener  610 , which can be different than that shown in  FIGS.  6  and  7    and can comprise a fluid-filled shock absorber. The valve body  210  can comprise the support pad  710  (shown in  FIG.  14   ), which can again support the biasing member  720  (shown in  FIG.  14   ). The valve body  210 , however, can further comprise a housing  1310 , which can define a cylinder and which in part also define the support pad  710 , for receiving a biasing member such as the biasing member  720 , which can again be a coil spring. As shown, the stop notch  410  can be positioned on the same side of the valve body  210  as the dampener  610 . As shown, the housing  1310  can define a slit or slot  1370  extending through a housing wall  1410 . 
       FIG.  14    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  of  FIG.  13    in a partially closed position. The valve member  250  can contact the second end  716  of the dampener  610 , and the first end  715  can contact and be supported by the support pad  710  and the housing  1310  of the valve body  210 . Moreover, the dampener  610  can extend vertically downward away from the support pad  710 . The housing  1310  can also comprise the housing wall  1410 , and the dampener  610  can further comprise a piston  1450  defining a first end  1455  and a second end  1456 . As shown, the first end  1455  can define a cavity  1458 , which can be sized to receive the biasing member  720 , and the second end  1456  can be rounded to engage a rotating valve member  250 . The housing  1310  can likewise define a cavity  1418 , which can be sized to receive the biasing member  720 . The slot  1370  can allow fluid through a gap  1460 , which can be defined between the piston  1450  and the housing wall  1410  of the housing  1310 , into the cavity  1418 . As the valve member  250  moves toward the closed position B, the piston  1450  can close or block off the slot  1370  and become a shock absorber due to the controlled exit of the fluid or water in the system  50  through an orifice  1318 , which can have a diameter substantially smaller than an inner diameter of the cavity  1418  and the piston  1450  in order to restrict or slow movement of the piston  1450  and therefore also the valve member  250  because the fluid will not be able to pass through the orifice  1318  as quickly as the valve member  250  is trying to close. 
     The valve member  250  can define a recess or notch  1480  proximate to the second end  1456  of the piston  1450  of the dampener  610  and sized to receive the second end  1456  of the piston  1450 . As shown, the valve member  250  can define a taper  1405  from the thickened portion  460  to an outer edge  1440  of the valve member  250 . The valve member  250  can also define a taper  1407  and can define a radius at the outer edge  1440  in an axial direction (when the valve member  250  is in the closed position B shown in  FIG.  15   ) to limit or eliminate friction and binding of the valve member  250  within the valve inner cavity  214  of the valve body  210  or to be able to reduce a diameter of the valve bore  217  relative to a diameter of the valve member  250  (or, conversely, to be able to increase the diameter of the valve member  250  relative to the diameter of the valve bore  217 ) more than would otherwise be possible without such edge treatment. 
     As shown in  FIG.  14   , the valve member  250 , at least when proximate to the closed position B (shown in  FIG.  15   ), can make initial contact with the piston  1450  of the dampener  610 . By not only contacting but also compressing the dampener  610  as shown in  FIG.  15   , the dampener  610  can slow down the rotation of the valve member  250  and thereby cushion closing of the valve  100  (which, again, can reduce the risk of water hammer and its potential effects). While the biasing member  720  is shown in a maximum compressed condition when the valve member  250  is in the closed position B, a coil length, gage, and other characteristics including the spring constant of the biasing member  720  can be adjusted to allow maximum compression of the dampener  610  when the valve member  250  is in a different position. These adjustments to the dampener  610  can, for example, allow the valve member  250  to rotate beyond the closed position B and then return to the closed position B after energy stored by the dampener  610  during rotation of the valve member  250  beyond the closed position B pushes the valve member  250  back to the closed position B. 
     In addition, presence of a fluid such as the fluid of the system  50  inside the cavity  1418  and the cavity  1458  can further dampen the movement of the valve member  250  proximate to the closed position B. Many fluids, including water, are nearly or practically incompressible. As such the fluid trapped inside the cavities  1418 , 1458  can provide a dampening effect when an exit bore or orifice  1318  providing fluid communication between the cavities  1418 , 1458  and the valve inner cavity  214  allow flow of the fluid out of the cavities  1418 , 1458  and into the valve inner cavity  214  of the valve body  210 . Any gaps such as the gap  1460  present between the housing wall  1410  and the piston  1450  can also allow additional fluid flow into the valve cavity  214  to dampen the movement of the valve member  250 . The fluid cannot pass through the orifice  1318  as quickly as the valve member  250  tries to close, and therefore it can slow the closure of the valve member  250 . This slowed movement of the valve member  250  can dissipate the flow rate of water through the valve  100 , which can lower the overall momentum of the valve member  250  upon closure. The dampening effect of the dampener  610  can therefore be adjusted by adjusting the size of the orifice  1318  and any of the gaps or channels providing fluid communication between the cavities  1418 , 1458  of the dampener  610  and the valve inner cavity  214  of the valve body  210 . 
     Proximate to and under the piston  1450 , a plate or tab  1470  can be secured to the valve body  210  with a fastener  1490  to prevent dislocation of the piston  1450  from the cavity  1418  under normal operation of the valve  100 . 
       FIG.  15    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  with the plate  450  of the valve member  250  in the closed position B. As shown, the offset distance  1210  and the offset distance  1220  (shown in  FIG.  12   ) can be present. A step portion  1510  can be defined in the second side  454  and the second side surface  452  and can be offset from a remaining portion of the second side  454  and the second side surface  452  in order to facilitate the offset distance  1210  and at the same time minimize material use in and therefore a weight of the valve member  250 . In some aspects such as those involving a fluid in a housing such as the housing  1310  in which the fluid resists but does allow movement of a piston therein (e.g., the piston  1450  and the housing  1310 ), the dampener  610  can be a hydraulic dampener configured to hydraulically dampen the valve member  250  of the valve  100 . 
       FIGS.  16 - 21    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with yet another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  16    specifically is a partial sectional perspective view of the valve  100  assembled to the hydrant  80  and the pipe fitting  180 . The valve body  210  can comprise a cross member  1610 , which can define a hole  1618  extending from a top surface to a bottom surface of the cross member  1610 . As shown, the cross member  1610  can define more than one of the holes  1618  such as holes  1618   a,b , a bore of each of which can be in fluid communication with each of the hydrant inner cavity  1602  of the hydrant  80  and the inner cavity  1604  of the pipe fitting  180 . In some aspects, as shown, the cross member  1610  can be formed monolithically with the valve body  210 . In other aspects, the cross member  1610  can be formed separately from the valve body  210 . 
     In some aspects including the double disc configuration shown, the valve member  250  can define multiple plates such as the pair of substantially semicircular plates  450   a,b . Arms  260   a,b  can extend from the respective plates  450   a,b  and the valve member  250  and the valve  100  can be held in an open position within stop notches  410   a,b  of the valve body  210  and under the mounting flange  85  of the hydrant  80 . As shown, the arms  260   a,b  can be positioned entirely within the valve body  210  and not extend past the mating surface  207  when the valve  100  is in the open position. 
     A shim or spacer  1660  can be positioned along the axis  201  (shown in  FIG.  18   ) of the valve  100  between an internal flange  1640  of the valve body  210  and the valve member  250  or simply below the internal flange  1640 . The spacer  1660  can define a first or upper surface  1661  and a second or lower surface  1662 . The spacer  1660  can define a thickness  1663  (shown in  FIG.  18   ), an outer diameter, and an inner diameter. The spacer  1660  can define openings  1664   a,b  (both shown in  FIG.  18   ), which can extend from the upper surface  1661  to the lower surface  1662  and can define the inner diameter of the spacer  1660 . As shown in  FIG.  16   , the inner diameter of the spacer  1660  can match an inner diameter of the valve body  210  proximate to the internal flange  1640 . Also as shown, the outer diameter of the spacer  1660  can match an inner diameter of the valve body  210  adjacent to the internal flange  1640 . The spacer  1660  can itself define a cross member  1650 . 
     The spacer  1660  can comprise a soft, elastic material that when contacted by the plates  450   a,b  of the closing valve member  250  will compress and thereby dampen any pressure spike in the system  50  upon closure of the valve  100 . The spacer  1660  can comprise any elastomer or elastomeric material such as, for example and without limitation, Buna-N rubber (i.e., nitrile rubber or acrylonitrile butadiene rubber), ethylene propylene diene (EPDM) rubber, natural rubber, or silicone. In various aspects, a material hardness of the spacer  1660  can measure less than 60 on the Shore A scale. In various aspects, a material hardness of the spacer  1660  can measure within a range between 10 on the Shore A scale and 20 on the Shore A scale. In various aspects, a material hardness of the spacer  1660  can measure 10 on the Shore A scale or 20 on the Shore A scale. In some aspects, the spacer  1660  can define an overall thickness that is less than a thickness of the plates  450   a,b . In various aspects, the spacer  1660  can be the dampener  610 . In various aspects, the spacer  1660  can be used in combination with the dampener  610  or a band  2210  (shown in  FIG.  22   ) disclosed elsewhere herein. 
       FIG.  17    is a top perspective view of the plates  450   a,b , of the valve member  250  of the break check valve  100  in the closed position B (shown but not marked in  FIG.  17   ). The respective arms  260   a,b  of each of the plates  450   a,b  can be shaped to clear (i.e., not physically interfere with) the cross member  1610  whether the valve members  250 —and the valve  100  overall—are in the open position A (shown but not marked in  FIG.  16   ) or the closed position B or somewhere in between. As shown, each of the stop notches  410   a,b  can define the bottom  412  and the side wall  414  and can be sized to receive the respective tip  262   a,b  of the respective arm  260   a,b . The height  415  (shown in  FIG.  4   ) of the side wall  414  of each stop notch  410   a,b  and the distance  417  (shown in  FIG.  4   ) from the bottom  412  of each stop notch  410   a,b  to the mating surface  207  of the valve body  210  can be at least the thickness  510  (shown in  FIG.  20   ) of the tip  262   a,b  of the arm  260   a,b . In some aspects, as shown (and also shown in  FIG.  21    with respect to the arm  260   a ), a lateral position of the arms  260   a,b  can be aligned with a lateral position of the holes  1618   a,b  defined in the cross member  1610 . When the valve  100  actuates and the valve member  250  closes, the fluid shooting or passing through the holes  1618   a,b  and at the arms  260   a,b  can push on the arms  260   a,b  and particularly the tip  262   a,b  of the arms  260   a,b  to resist closure of the valve member  250 . This effect can be increased as the valve  100  closes and a speed of the fluid flow through the holes  1618   a,b  increases such that as the valve  100  closes it decelerates. 
       FIG.  18    is an exploded top perspective view of the break check valve  100  with the plates  450   a,b  of the valve member  250  oriented in an open position. The pivot pin  240  can be received within the pivot bore  310 , which can define a pivot axis  1801 . Washers  1810   a,b  can be slid over the pivot pin  240  and as described below can be positioned in one or more locations to facilitate opening and closing of the valve  100 . Fasteners  1820   a,b  can be positioned beyond ends of the pivot pin  240  and can cover the ends of the pivot pin  240  to help fix or control the axial position of the pivot pin  240  and to prevent leakage of fluid or contaminants into or out of the valve  100  and thereby also the system  50 . 
     Each of the washers  1810   a,b  can define a bore which can be sized to receive the pivot pin  240 . In some aspects, the pivot pin  240  can rotate with respect to the washers  1810   a,b . In other aspects, the pivot pin  240  can rotate together with the washers  1810   a,b  inside the pivot bore  310 . In some aspects, the washers  1810   a,b  can be positioned proximate to each end of the pivot pin  240  and proximate to the valve bore  217  and the valve inner cavity  214 . In other aspects, the washers  1810   a,b  can be positioned proximate to each end of the pivot pin  240  proximate to the outer surface  211  of the valve body or somewhere between the outer surface  211  and the inner surface  212 . 
     Each of the fasteners  1820   a,b  can be received within the pivot bore  310  to seal the pivot bore  310  as described above, although in some aspects the pivot bore  310  need not be sealed. In some aspects, the fasteners  1820   a,b  can each define threads configured to be received within a threaded portion of the pivot bore  310 . In other aspects, the fasteners  1820  can be secured inside the pivot bore  310  without threads and instead with, for example and without limitation, an interference fit, with an adhesive, or with another fastener. As shown, each of the fasteners  1820   a,b  can be a set screw with a hex recess on a first end and a flat surface on a second end. In some aspects, the pivot pin  240  can contact the fasteners  1820   a,b  during operation of the valve  100 . In other aspects, the pivot pin  240  and the fasteners  1820   a,b  can define a gap therebetween at either or both ends of the pivot pin  240 . 
     Each of the pivot pin  240 , the washers  1810   a,b , and the fasteners  1820   a,b  can be aligned and assembled along the pivot axis  1801 , as can the plates  450   a,b  of the valve member  250 . The plates  450   a,b  can nest together and can define plate bore axes  1802   a,b , which can align along or with the pivot axis  1801  of the valve body  210 . Each of the plates  450   a,b  can define a lug or a plurality of lugs  1850   a,b , each of which can define the pivot bore  458  (shown in  FIG.  19   ) defining the axes  1802   a,b . In some aspects, the pivot bore  458  of each of the lugs  1850  can be smooth and each of the plates  450   a,b  can be configured to rotate with respect to the pivot pin  240 . 
     The arms  260   a,b  can be formed separately from and be fastened to the plates  450   a,b . In some aspects, the arms  260   a,b  can be fastened to the plates  450   a,b  by welding or with weldments at a joint or seam between the arms  260   a,b  and the plates  450   a,b . In other aspects, the arms  260   a,b  can be fastened to the plates  450   a,b  using another type of fastener such as, for example and without limitation, a screw or a pin or can slide or snap into position inside the plates  450  without the use of any fasteners. 
     The spacer  1660  can define a hole  1668  or, as shown, a pair of holes  1668   a,b , each of which can be in fluid communication with each of the hydrant inner cavity  1602  of the hydrant  80  and the inner cavity  1604  of a neighboring portion of the system  50  such as, for example and without limitation, the pipe fitting  180 . The holes  1618   a,b  of the valve body  210  can be aligned with the holes  1668   a,b , respectively, so that together  1618   a  and  1668   a  and, likewise,  1618   b  and  1668   b  can be in fluid communication with each of the hydrant inner cavity  1602  and the inner cavity  1604 . In various aspects, the valve  100  can define a hole such as the holes  1618   a,b  separate from the valve bore  217  and in fluid communication with a portion of the valve inner cavity  214  on either side of the valve member  250  when the valve member  250  is in the closed position B (shown in  FIG.  24   ). 
       FIG.  19    is an exploded top perspective view of a portion of the valve member  250  of the break check valve  100 . Specifically, the plate  450  can define a recess  1980  sized to receive the base  264  of the arm  260 . In some aspects, to clear neighboring parts such as the cross member  1610  (shown in  FIG.  16   ) during operation of the valve  100 , the arm can define an “S” shape when viewed from a side. The arm  260  can be mounted in an orientation or in a plane that is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the plate  450 , i.e., an axis  1802 . Each of the lugs  1850  and the axis  1802  can be offset from the first side  453  and specifically a sealing portion  1950  of the first side surface  451 , and as described with respect to previous figures each of the plates  450   a,b  can be biased towards the closed position B. In some aspects, an outer rim  1910  can define the sealing portion  1950  and can define a greater thickness than a thickness of a web  1920  of the plate  450   a,b . The sealing portion  1950  can be flat or substantially flat to adequately seal against a mating surface of the valve  100  such as, for example and without limitation, the spacer  1660  (shown in  FIG.  18   ), which can also be flat as shown. 
     In some aspects a portion of the valve member  250  or, more specifically, the plate  450  can define a hole (not shown), which is similar to the holes  1618   a,b  of the cross member  1610  or the holes  1668   a,b  of the spacer  1660 . The hole can be in fluid communication with each of the hydrant inner cavity  1602  and the inner cavity  1604  or can be in fluid communication with a portion of the valve inner cavity  214  on either side of the valve member  250  when the valve member  250  is in the closed position B. 
       FIG.  20    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  in a partially closed position. The arm  260   b —joined to the plate  450   b —is shown raised up and out of the stop notch  410   b  such as when no hydrant  80  is in contact with the mating surface  207  of the valve body  210 . As the valve  100  moves towards the closed position, a sealing portion  1950   b  of the plate  450   b  can approach and eventually seal against the lower surface  1662  of the spacer  1660  while the arm  260   b  (arm  260   a  shown in  FIG.  18   ) simultaneously wraps around the cross member  1610  of the valve body  210  and the cross member  1650  of the spacer  1660 . Simultaneously, a sealing portion  1950   a  of the plate  450   a  can approach and eventually seal against the lower surface  1662  of the spacer  1660  on an opposite side of the valve  100  while the arm  260   a  (shown in  FIG.  17   ) also wraps around the cross member  1610  of the valve body  210  and the cross member  1650  of the spacer  1660 . 
       FIG.  21    is a sectional front view of the break check valve  100  in a partially closed position. The alignment of the holes  1618   a,b  of the cross member  1610  with the holes  1668   a,b  of the cross member  1610  can be seen, as can the position of the washers  1810   a,b , the fasteners  1820   a,b , and the lugs  1850   a,b  of the plates  450   a,b  about the pivot pin  240 . As shown, the washer  1810   a  can be positioned between the valve body  210  and the plate  450   a  of the valve member  250  with a sufficient gap between the parts to permit rotation of the plate  450   a . Similarly, the washer  1810   b  can be positioned between the valve body  210  and the plate  450   b  of the valve member  250  on an opposite side of the valve  100  with a sufficient gap between the respective parts to permit rotation of the plate  450   b . The pivot pin  240  can extend partly into the pivot bore  310  at each end. In some aspects, each of the washers  1810   a,b  can be formed from an anti-friction or anti-corrosion material such as, for example and without limitation, acetal, nylon, or another polymer. In other aspects, each of the washers  1810   a,b  can be formed from any desirable material including a metal or a composite material. 
     In some aspects, the internal flange  1640  (shown in  FIG.  16   ) can either not be present or can be cut away where the arms  260   a,b  such that instead of the stop notches  410   a,b  there is no part of the valve body  210  directly supporting or even contacting the tips  262   a,b  of the respective arms  260   a,b . In such aspects, as shown in the construction of the valve  100  shown in  FIG.  37   , the arms  260   a,b  can be held in the open position or horizontal position H (shown in  FIG.  4   ) only on an upper side facing the hydrant  80  by the hydrant  80 . 
       FIGS.  22 - 24    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  22    specifically is a sectional front view of the break check valve  100  with the plates  450   a,b  in the open position A. The aforementioned band  2210  can join the plates  450   a,b  with respective fasteners  2290   a,b . As shown, when the valve member  250  and the valve  100  is in the open position A the band  2210  can be loose and not tightly joining the plates  450   a,b . More specifically, the band  2210  can be loose enough for the plates  450   a,b  to move towards the closed position when the hydrant  80  is dislocated from the valve  100 . Also as shown, the second side  454  of each of the plates  450   a,b  can be at least partially facing the direction of flow of fluid through the valve  100  such that, as described in aspects above in which the valve member comprises a single plate  450 , actuation of the valve  100  by dislocation of the hydrant  80  will naturally rotate the plates  450   a,b  towards the closed position from a position that biases the plates  450   a,b  slightly towards the closed position instead of, for example, being aligned with a vertical direction. 
       FIG.  23    is a bottom perspective view of a subassembly of the break check valve  100  comprising the valve member  250 , the pivot pin  240 , and the band  2210 . In some aspects, the fasteners  2290   a,b  can be a hex fastener such as, for example and without limitation, a screw or a bolt. In other aspects, another fastener can be used (including adhesive or welding) or the band can join the plates  450   a,b  without separate fasteners. In some aspects, as shown, the plates  450   a,b  are joined by the band  2210 . In other aspects, the band  2210  can join each of the plates  450   a,b  to a portion of the valve body  210 , to the pivot pin  240 , or to another portion of the system  50 . 
       FIG.  24    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  in the closed position B. The band  2210  can be tight enough for the band  2210  to stretch and even break into band halves  2210   a,b  as shown when the plates  450   a,b  completely close and seal against the valve body  210  and, more specifically, the spacer  1660  in some aspects. By being tight enough to stretch, the band  2210  can slow the closing of the plates  450   a,b  to reduce the risk of water hammer occurring in the system  50  upon the closing of the valve  100 . Again, water hammer can result from overly rapid deceleration of fluid within the system  50  such as may occur when a valve such as the valve  100  closes. 
     In some aspects, the band  2210  can comprise any elastomer or elastomeric material such as, for example and without limitation, Buna-N rubber (i.e., nitrile rubber or acrylonitrile butadiene rubber), ethylene propylene diene (EPDM) rubber, natural rubber, or silicone. In other aspects, the band  2210  can comprise any polymeric or other material, including deformable materials, or even deformable metal materials, which can initially slow the closing of the valve  100  but upon breaking or stretching can permit closing of the valve  100 . In some aspects, the band  2210  can be configured to only stretch and can permit closure of the valve  100  without breaking. In other aspects, the band  2210  can be configured to break before or upon closure of the valve  100 . 
     In some aspects, the spacer  1660  can comprise any polymeric or other material, including but not limited to deformable materials, which can be positioned between the valve member  250  and the valve body  210  to cushion more than would the valve body  210  itself cushion the valve member  250  by having a hardness less than that of the valve body  210 . 
       FIGS.  25 - 27    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  25    specifically is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100  with a one half of the valve member  250  comprising the plate  450   a  shown in the open position and another half the valve member  250  comprising the plate  450   b  shown in the closed position. The valve  100  can comprise a plurality of dampeners  610   a,b,c,d,e,f  positioned in holes  2510   a,b,c,d,e,f.    
       FIG.  26    is an exploded top perspective view of one of the dampeners  610  of the break check valve  100  of  FIG.  25   . The dampener  610  can comprise the biasing member  720 , which can be a coil spring as shown. The dampener  610  can also comprise the support pad  710 , which as shown can be formed separately from and assembled to the valve body  210  (shown in  FIG.  25   ). The support pad  710  can define a recess  2610  such as, for example and without limitation, a hex recess. Using a tool (not shown), the recess  2610  can be used to rotate and secure the support pad  710  in a matching hole  2510  in the valve body  210 . Each of the support pad  710  and the corresponding matching hole  2510  can define a threaded portion by which each of the support pad  710  and the corresponding matching hole  2510  can engage each other. In some aspects, the support pad  710  can be adjusted in an axial direction with respect to an axis  2601  defined by the support pad  710  and the biasing member  720  to move a bottom end of the biasing member  720  away from or towards the respective plate  450   a,b.    
       FIG.  27    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  showing two of the dampeners  610  in cross-section. While not shown, a fastener can be used to hold biasing members such as the biasing members  720   b,e  inside the holes  2510   b,e  to the respective support pads  710   b,e . While slight interference may be appear to be present between the arm  260   b  and the cross member  1610 , as discussed above the arm  260   b  can be shaped to clear the cross member  1610 . When approaching the closed position B, the plate  450   b  can not only contact the dampener  610  as shown but can continue rotating past the closed position B, dampening the closure of the valve  100  in the process, which as noted above can reduce the risk of water hammer occurring in the system  50  upon the closing of the valve  100 . The plate  450   b  can then return to the closed position B. 
       FIGS.  28 - 30    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  28    specifically is a top perspective view of a break check valve  100  in the open position. Again, the valve  100  can comprise the plurality of dampeners  610   a,b,c,d,e,f , which again can be positioned inside the holes  2510   a,b,c,d,e,f  (all shown but only  2510   b,e  marked) defined in the valve body  210 . 
       FIG.  29    is an exploded top perspective view of one of the dampeners  610  of the break check valve  100  of  FIG.  28   . As shown, the dampener  610  can comprise the housing  1310  defining the housing wall  1410  and the orifice  1318 . In some aspects, as shown, the housing  1310  can be separate from the valve body  210  (in contrast to the housing  1310  shown in  FIG.  14   , for example) and can define a first end  1315  and a second end  1316 . The dampener  610  can further comprise the piston  1450 , which can be sealed against the housing wall  1410  of the housing  1310  during operation with a seal  2910 , which can comprise O-rings  2910   a,b . The piston  1450  can define a first end  1455  and a second end  1456 , a first portion  1451  and a second portion  1452 . The O-rings  2910   a,b  can be sized to fit within grooves  2980   a,b  defined in the piston  1450  and more specifically the first portion  1451  of the piston  1450 . The first portion  1451  of the piston  1450  can define an outer diameter that is greater than an outer diameter of the second portion  1452 . Movement of the housing  1310  inside the corresponding hole  2510  of the valve body  210  can be fixed or restricted by a fastener  2990 , which can be a retaining ring such as the internal retaining ring shown. 
       FIG.  30    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100 . Each piston such as the pistons  1450   b,e  of the respective dampeners  610   b,e  can be held captive on an outside edge of the piston  1450  by a shoulder  3010  defined in the valve inner cavity  214  and the valve bore  217  of the valve body  210  and also on an inside edge of the piston  1450  by a plate  3060 , which can be secured inside the valve bore  217  of the valve body  210 . Each of the dampeners  610   a,b,c,d,e,f  and the dampeners  610   b,e  in as shown can be positioned to dampen the plates  450   a,b  of the valve member  250  during closing of the valve  100 . When approaching the closed position B, the plates  450   a,b  can not only contact the dampeners  610   a,b,c,d,e,f  as shown but can continue rotating past the closed position B, dampening the closure of the valve  100  in the process, which as noted above can reduce the risk of water hammer occurring in the system  50  upon the closing of the valve  100 . Specifically, as described with respect to  FIG.  14    above, the orifice  1318  in the housing  1310  of each dampener  610  can allow the fluid in the system  50  to escape from the cavity  1418  of the housing slowly enough to slow down or decelerate the plate  450 . The plate  450   b  can then return to the closed position B. In other aspects, the cavity  1418  of each of the dampeners  610  can be filled with a food grade oil or other fluid, which can be different than the fluid that the system  50  is meant to store. In some aspects, as shown, the open position A can be with the plates  450   a,b  in a vertical orientation or in a substantially vertical orientation. The dampener  610  can effectively be a hydraulic piston positioned within the housing  1310  defining the orifice  1318 , and the orifice  1318  can be sized to restrict flow of a fluid therethrough to produce a shock absorber effect through hydraulic dampening. 
       FIGS.  31 - 34    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  31    specifically is a top perspective view and  FIG.  32    is a side view of the break check valve  100  in the open position. Instead of the valve member  250  effectively being divided into two separate plates  450   a,b  along a line that is parallel to the pivot pin  240 , as shown the valve member  250  can comprise plates  450   a,b  that are divided along a line that is perpendicular to the pivot pin  240  and the pivot axis  1801 . As shown in  FIG.  32   , each of the plates  450   a,b  can taper from a center portion proximate to the pivot pin  240  towards a distal edge extending furthest from the valve body  210 . As shown, each of the first side  453  and the second side  454  of each of the plates  450   a,b  can be facing the direction of flow of fluid through the valve  100 , but also as shown the plates  450   a,b —shown in the open position A for each—can still be biased ever so slightly in some aspects towards the closed position B by making the projected surface area of the second side  454  greater than the projected surface area of the first side  453  when viewing the plates  450   a  from along the axis  201  of the valve  100  with the plates  450   a,b  in the respective open positions A. 
       FIG.  33    is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100  in a partially closed position, and  FIG.  34    is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100  in the closed position. A seam  3410  can be defined where the plates  450   a,b  meet when in the closed position. In some aspects, the seam  3410  can be made tight to limit or stop water leakage therethrough. In other aspects, the seam  3410  can be made less tight or can define clear gaps to allow a limited amount of water to flow through as an indication to passersby that something may be amiss, specifically that the hydrant  80  may be dislocated from its usual position. In any case, the seam  3410  can define the plates  450   a,b  with, for example and without limitation, a lateral portion extending in a direction parallel to the pivot axis  1801 . Due to the presence of the lateral portion of the seam  3410 , an end of each plate  450   a,b  proximate to a stop (not shown but similar in construction and function to the ledge or stop  290  shown in  FIG.  9    and configured to stop movement of the plates  450   a,b  where at least a portion of the valve body  210  is in contact with the plates  450   a,b ) can define a greater surface area than a surface area of the opposite end of the plates  450   a,b , where both surface areas can together define a total surface area of the second side  454  (shown in  FIG.  32   ) of the plates  450   a,b . As the plates  450   a,b  begin to close, the fluid of the system  50  can push against each end of the second side  454  of each plate  450   a,b . The smaller end can resist the larger end of each plate  450   a,b , thereby slowing closure of the valve member  250 . 
       FIGS.  35 - 38    show the break check valve  100  in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.  FIG.  35    specifically is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100 , which can be configured similar to that disclosed above in various aspects. With respect to actuation of the valve  100 , an insert such as a retention arm insert or hold-open bar  3500  of the valve member  250  can span the valve bore  217  of the valve body  210  and can comprise two arms  260   a,b , each of which need not be incorporated into a single continuous member as shown in previous figures but rather can effectively be split into several elements. In some aspects, the hold-open bar  3500  can be a monolithic component. In other aspects, the hold-open bar  3500  can comprise multiple pieces. With respect to the arms  260   a,b , the hold-open bar  3500 , which can comprise a first horizontal member  3550  and cross members or second horizontal members  3510   a,b , can comprise bases  264   a,b  (shown in  FIG.  36   ) in contact with each of the plates  450   a,b  to lock the valve member  250  and specifically the plates  450   a,b  in the respective open positions A. The hold-open bar  3500  can further comprise distal portions or tips  262   a,b , which can also be tabs and can be received within the stop notches  410   a,b , and held down by the hydrant  80  in normal operation. In some aspects, as shown, the bases  264   a,b  can extend from the second horizontal members  3510 . 
     In other aspects, either or both of the bases  264   a,b  can extend directly from the first horizontal member  3550 , or the hold-open bar  3500  can be supported with only a portion of the first horizontal member  3550  or with another structure. In other aspects, the hold-open bar  3500  can cover and, optionally, extend slightly pass the cross member  1610  and, in any case, the bases  264   a,b  can curve around the cross member  1610  as necessary to reach the plates  450   a,b  and distal portions can reach in opposite directions to the stop notches  410   a,b . The tips  262   a,b  and the bases  264   a,b  can together respectfully form one or more structural elements on each side of the cross member  1610 . In some aspects, the first horizontal member  3550 , the bases  264   a,b , and the tips  262   a,b  can be roughly circular in cross-section or cylindrical in three dimensions. In other aspects, each of these portions of the hold-open bar  3500  need not be present and the hold-open bar  3500  need not define the closed ring shape shown. Furthermore, the stop notches  410   a,b  can be reoriented or increased or decreased in quantity. In some aspects, for example, the stop notches  410   a,b  are not required at all and can be replaced with a recessed ledge, which can extend partially or completely around an inner circumference of the top flange  220  of the valve body  210 . In some aspects, the hold-open bar  3500  can comprise a quantity of one or two or more first horizontal members  3550  extending across the valve bore  217  of the valve body  210  defining a linear shape or orientation as opposed to the circular shape or orientation shown. 
       FIG.  36    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  in the open position and, more specifically, showing each of the plates  450   a,b  in the open position A. A length  3610  and spacing distance  3620  of the bases  264   a,b  of the arms  260   a,b  can be set as shown to sufficiently hold the plates  450   a,b  open against the force of the fluid inside the system  50  against the second side  454  of each plate  450   a,b . At the same time, the length  3610  and the spacing distance  3620  can be set to not extend down the plates  450   a,b  so far that the hold-open bar  3500  will remain bound even upon dislocation of the hydrant  80  because the force component in the axial direction with respect to the axis  201  is not sufficient to expel the hold-open bar  3500 . 
       FIG.  37    is a top perspective view of the break check valve  100  in accordance with yet another aspect of the current disclosure. Instead of the stop notches  410   a,b  defined in the mating surface  207  of the valve body, the mating surface  207  can be removed and the tips  262   a,b  not supported except from above by the mounting flange  85  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the hydrant  80 . 
       FIG.  38    is a sectional side view of the break check valve  100  in the closed position. Dislocation of the hydrant  80  can cause the arm  260  to also become dislocated from within the valve body  210  and from the valve  100  entirely and can then allow the valve member  250  and the valve  100  to move to the closed position B shown. 
     A method for using the hydrant  80  can comprise providing a wet barrel hydrant  80  comprising a hydrant body and a break check valve  100  coupled to the hydrant  80  and positioned below the hydrant  80 . Each of the hydrant  80  and the valve  100  can be coupled to the system  50 , which can comprise a fluid therein under pressure. The method can comprise automatically rotating the valve member  250  of the valve  100  from an open position to a closed position of the valve  100  when the hydrant  80  is separated from the valve  100 , the valve member  250  before closure positioned inside the valve body  210  of the valve  100 , the valve member  250  during closure changing its position with respect to the valve body  210  of the valve  100 , the valve member  250  in the closed position of the valve  100  substantially stopping flow of the fluid from the system  50 . By “substantially stopping flow,” it is meant that all flow is stopped except for any incidental flow from valve due to minor gaps between the parts when the valve is closed and any purposeful venting or streaming of water as described below—such as to alert passersby of a problem with the hydrant  80 . In some aspects, leakage due to gaps and any purposeful venting of water as described will measure less than 5% of total flow. 
     The method can further comprise expelling a limited stream of water from the valve  100  in the closed position through the hole(s)  1618  defined in a one of the valve body  210  and the valve member  250  to indicate closure of the valve  100 . In some aspects, the method can comprise expelling a stream of water from the valve  100  and through the cross member  1610  or the valve member  250  of the valve  100 . For example, the stream of water could be a focused jet extending high enough into the air (a minimum of five feet, in some aspects, to reach above a top of a parked vehicle) for one to notice it. In some aspects, the method can comprise expelling the stream of water from the valve  100  and through a gap defined between the cross member  1610  or the valve member  250  and the valve body  210  of the valve  100 . By expelling water from the valve  100  when the valve  100  is closed, the valve can, as noted above, effectively and clearly indicate to passersby that something may be amiss with the hydrant  80  and specifically that the hydrant  80  may be dislocated from its usual position, giving them and any nearby public safety personnel the ability to notify responsible parties that the hydrant  80  requires attention. 
     In some aspects, as described above, rotating the valve member  250  of the valve  100  can comprise rotating a single valve disc such as the plate  450  about the pivot pin  240  of the valve  100  from the open position A to the closed position B. In any case, the valve disc or valve member  250  can extend substantially in all directions across the valve bore  217  defined in the valve body  210  when the valve  100  is in the closed position B. In other aspects, rotating the valve member  250  of the valve  100  can comprise rotating a pair of valve discs or plates  450   a,b  about the pivot pin  240  of the valve  100  from the open position A to the closed position B. 
     In some aspects, rotating the valve member  250  of the valve  100  can comprise expelling the hold-open bar  3500  from the valve  100  and thereby allowing rotation of the valve member  250  within the valve body  210  from the open position A to the closed position B. Furthermore, rotating the valve member  250  of the valve  100  can comprise slowing the speed of the valve member  250  proximate to the closed position B. In some aspects, slowing the speed of the valve member  250  can comprise contacting the valve member  250  with a biasing member  720 . In other aspects, slowing the speed of the valve member  250  comprises contacting the valve member  250  with a hydraulic piston such as found in the dampener  610  and configured to move within a cylinder comprising the fluid, the cylinder defining an orifice, the orifice sized to restrict flow of the fluid and thereby slow the valve member. 
     The method can comprise installing the hydrant  80  at any angular position about the axis  201  with respect to an angular position of the valve  100  without affecting the ability of the valve  100  to remain closed when the hydrant  80  is coupled to the valve  100  and open when the hydrant  80  is separated from the valve  100 . This rotation of the hydrant  80  to a desirable angular position based on the availability of multiple angular positions is called “clocking” of the hydrant  80 . The method can comprise re-using the valve  100  as-is after actuation of the valve  100  and after coupling a replacement hydrant  80  to the valve  100 . 
     In some aspects, the valve  100  and various components thereof can be formed from or comprise an iron, bronze, or steel material including stainless steel or even a plastic (e.g., polymeric) or composite material, which can be reinforced with fibers. In other aspects, any suitable materials can be used. 
     As shown, the break check valve  100  can be easily replaced by a new valve  100 , or the valve  100  can replace an older style valve or be installed where no break check valve is currently installed. The valve  100  can also be reset without replacement or modification upon reinstallation of the hydrant  80  by returning the components of the valve  100  to their respective original positions. Significant weight and cost savings can be achieved with a valve such as the valve  100  disclosed herein. One older style break check valve, for example, can weigh up to 200 pounds or more and require that the installation height  480  (shown in  FIG.  4   ) from end to end in the axial direction be approximately two feet or more. In contrast, the break check valve  100  disclosed herein can weigh as little as approximately 40 pounds and the installation height  480  can measure as little as about two inches. 
     One should note that conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects include, while other aspects do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more particular aspects or that one or more particular aspects necessarily comprise logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular aspect. 
     It should be emphasized that the above-described aspects are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Any process descriptions or blocks in flow diagrams should be understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of code which comprise one or more executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate implementations are included in which functions may not be included or executed at all, may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described aspect(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Further, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any and all combinations and sub-combinations of all elements, features, and aspects discussed above. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure.