In-line thermal expansion tank
US6418969B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 8, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jul 16, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 8, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF24D3/1008
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An in-line expansion tank includes a sleeve defining a volume, a pipe positioned within the sleeve, and an annular flexible bladder disposed within the volume between the sleeve and the pipe. The pipe defines a fluid flow channel, an inlet at an upstream region of the pipe in fluid communication with the fluid flow channel, and an outlet at a downstream region of the pipe in fluid communication with the fluid flow channel. The bladder and the sleeve define an outer radial chamber therebetween. The chamber is pressurized during normal use and the bladder is configured to contact the pipe during operation at normal water pressure to minimize dead space between the bladder and the pipe. The tank includes a valve for pressurizing the chamber.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.