Fail-safe thermostatic valve

Abstract

A fail-safe thermostatically operated valve includes a temperature-responsive actuator for moving a valve element between a retracted position and an extended position. The valve includes a first cylindrical member and a second cylindrical member which are releasably connected to one another by a temperature-responsive release device which is responsive to a second predetermined temperature above the normal operating temperature of the valve. A spring arrangement provides return capability for the valve element and overtravel capability for the valve in the normal temperature operating range, and biasing force to move the valve element from the retracted to the extended position when the temperature-responsive release device operates. In one embodiment, the temperature-responsive release device includes a miniature wax-filled actuator in engagement with a mechanical linkage. In an alternate embodiment, the temperature-responsive release device comprises a heat fusible material.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.