Keywords
Citation
(2001), "Clearer by-pass valve", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 48 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2001.12848aab.006
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
Clearer by-pass valve
Clearer by-pass valve
Keywords: Osmonics Autotrol, Valves, Water, Corrosion resistance
Milwaukee-based Osmonics Autotrol, a manufacturer of water softening systems for small communities and homes, worked with a component manufacturer, Minnesota Rubber and QMR Plastics in Minneapolis, to design a bypass valve to improve the performance of its residential installations.
The bypass valve stops the flow to a softening system that is laden with minerals and requires cleaning, and sends water directly to the home. Osmonics Autotrol had used bypass valves containing a push/pull cylinder that moved from side to side to control the flow, but the design was difficult to operate and could restrict the flow of water.
According to Minnesota Rubber/QMR Plastics, a new double rotary valve incorporates bypass and service position rotors to provide more efficient water flow and lower flow resistance. Minnesota Rubber/QMR Plastics said that it ensured that the rubber and plastic materials of the valve complemented one another and struck a careful balance between the torque valve and the sealing contact to prevent leaking. The company injection moulded the corrosion resistant, thermoplastic valve body and turning rotors, and transfer moulded the valve's rubber port seals and O-rings.
In addition, Minnesota Rubber/QMR Plastics used finite element analysis to optimise the wall thickness of the new valve, in order to get the best combination of weight and strength, and cost.