Pressure discharge mechanism for closed vessels
US8997773B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 20, 2012 |
| Grant date | Apr 7, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 26, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/1812
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates in general to a pressure discharge mechanism for closed vessels having an internal chamber designed to hold volatile and/or explosive substances in a sealed manner comprised of an at least one eutectic composition and a threaded joint designed to open or vent the closed vessel when the contents of the closed vessel reaches a predetermined temperature while maintaining full structural integrity during normal operation. In one aspect, the closed vessel is a munitions casing which functions as intended under normal operating environments, but then when exposed to extreme temperatures, reduces the munition's high order explosion capability, and is transformed into a safe, low order reaction with significantly less reactive potential. In one aspect, the closed vessel is a transport tanker which should not release substances contained therein. However, if the tanker catches fire, the pressure relief mechanism of the present invention reduces risk of explosion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.