J/b Industries, Inc.

Scott R Randall

An improved refrigeration manifold having an unrestricted and uncomplicated flow path as well as a simple and efficient valve system is disclosed. The refrigeration manifold includes a manifold body having a first passage extending horizontally through the body and second and third passages extending vertically through the body to form the high and low sides of the manifold. One or more passages extend through the body from the first passage to the bottom of the manifold body for connection to a vacuum or refrigeration source. First and second ball valves are disposed in the first passage for selectively opening and closing the first passage. Third and fourth ball valves may be provided in fourth and fifth passages which are provided for connection to a vacuum and charging source, respectively. The ball valves are operable by moving a lever through an arc of 90.degree. for quick turn off. The ball valves also each include a ball having an axial bore of a bore diameter equal to a main passage diameter of the passages through the manifold. Preferably, the main passage diameter and the equal bore diameter generally represent a minimum diameter of the system so that the system has a full bore unrestricted flow path. Such an improved flow path results in decreased evacuation and charging times and the improved valve system provides a quick means to turn the valve on or off and does not restrict the flow path.

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Aurora, IL, United States of America

Scott R Randall