Method and apparatus for measuring the axial load and position of a valve stem
First Claim
1. A method for measuring and monitoring the axial load on a valve stem, the method comprising the steps of connecting one end of the valve stem to one end of a valve actuator drive shaft with a marriage block connecting member capable of generating an electrical signal representative of the axial load or thrust on the valve stem, generating electrical signals representative of the axial load or thrust on the valve stem, and converting said electrical signals to an output indicative of the actual axial load or thrust on the valve stem.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A method and apparatus for measuring and monitoring the axial load or thrust on the valve stem of an air operated valve assembly. The top end of the valve stem is connected to bottom end of the valve actuator drive shaft by a marriage block connector member having a plurality of strain gages capable of generating an electrical signal representative of the axial load or thrust on the valve stem. The marriage block connector member is also provided with a gage capable of generating an electrical signal representative of the axial position of the valve stem. The apparatus and methods disclosed are used for valve diagnostic testing from a remote location or for a valve control system.
94 Citations
15 Claims
- 1. A method for measuring and monitoring the axial load on a valve stem, the method comprising the steps of connecting one end of the valve stem to one end of a valve actuator drive shaft with a marriage block connecting member capable of generating an electrical signal representative of the axial load or thrust on the valve stem, generating electrical signals representative of the axial load or thrust on the valve stem, and converting said electrical signals to an output indicative of the actual axial load or thrust on the valve stem.
- 7. Apparatus for measuring and monitoring the axial load on a valve stem, the apparatus comprising a marriage block connecting member connecting one end of the valve stem with one end of a valve actuator drive shaft, said marriage block connecting member capable of generating an electrical signal representative of the axial load or thrust on the valve stem.
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12. A device for monitoring the performance of a valve, said valve having a valve stem connected to an actuator drive shaft, the device comprising:
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a marriage block directly connecting said valve stem and said drive shaft, said marriage block adapted to provide a signal representative of the load on said valve stem; and a means for generating a signal indicating the position of said valve stem. - View Dependent Claims (13, 14, 15)
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Specification