Control valve with detachable descrete curtain valve assembly

Abstract

Valves, particularly useful for controlling flow of heat transfer fluids in various heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, are provided. The valves are of the curtain valve type and operate at very low torque and provide easy assembly and repair. The valve or actuator has an adjustment for the flow coefficient. A disclosed valve comprises a valve body having an inside surface, an inlet port comprised of an opening through the inside surface and enabling fluid flow into the valve body, an outlet port comprised of an opening through the inside surface and enabling fluid flow from the valve body, and a curtain valve closure. The closure adjustably controls fluid flow through the outlet port and is of a modular design including a flexible diaphragm held in an insert positioned at least partially within the outlet port. The insert has at least one dimension larger than a mating surface on the internal surface of the valve body. In this manner the insert is secured without fasteners and properly oriented within the outlet port, facilitates easy assembly and enables the use of low-torque actuators. The valve can employ a radially- and axially-moveable shoe to assure tight close off.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.