Adjustable torque limiting valve handle

US4619437A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• William J. Williams · Wartburg, US
• Richard E. Purkey · Jasper, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 29, 1986
• Grant date: Oct 28, 1986
• Expiry date: Jan 29, 2006

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16K31/60
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Disclosed is a torque limiting valve handle having one more independently adjustable spring loaded balls urged in contact with depressions formed in the inside surface of a housing adapted for external manual engagement. The adjustment of the torque limit setting of the valve handle is protected from tampering or inadvertent modification by unauthorized personnel by the access to the adjustment requiring disassembly of the parts. One embodiment provides a torque lock in one direction of rotation. Another embodiment provides a torque limit override feature in either direction of rotation by an axial displacement of the housing of the handle with respect to an adaptor fixedly secured to the valve stem of the valve to which it is secured.