Valve diaphragm with a compression restraining ring, and valve including same

A valve, comprising:

• a body having an input port, a central portion, and an output port;
• a bonnet;
• a flexible diaphragm having a central portion and a peripheral portion surrounding the central portion, wherein the peripheral portion is adapted to be positioned between the bonnet and the body;
• wherein the flexible diaphragm is formed from a flexible elastomeric or plastic material;
• a separate substantially rigid ring of more rigidity than the flexible diaphragm extending continuously through or on the peripheral portion;
• a thin alloy layer molded to, bonded with, or otherwise covering the central portion of the flexible diaphragm;
• an actuator mechanism operatively coupled to the diaphragm for moving the diaphragm between an open configuration wherein the input port and output port are in fluid communication with each other, and a closed configuration wherein the diaphragm blocks the central portion and prevents fluid flow between the input port and the output port;
• and
• wherein the bonnet is adapted to house the actuator mechanism.