Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A self clearing bladder valve is provided by concentric flexible and expandable bladder sleeves, the inner sleeve defining the passage through the valve. Flushing fluid is directed into an annular chamber between the bladder sleeves and through apertures through the inner sleeve into the passage for material passing through the valve to lubricate the passage and tend to force material out of the passage. The flushing fluid is delivered to the chamber between the bladder sleeves more quickly than it escapes through the apertures to the pressure in the annular chamber increases forcing the inner sleeve into the passage to restrict same as it is being flushed by fluid. Normally the flushing fluid will be directed into the annular chamber and through the apertures into the passage immediately before the valve is fully closed.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim