Fluid handling device

Abstract

The present invention provides a fluid handling device which operates as a combination check valve and fluid flow meter. The device includes a housing having an inlet and outlet and a fluid passageway formed therebetween. The housing forms a valve seat in series with the fluid passageway while a valve member movable between an open and closed position cooperates with the valve seat to open and close the fluid passageway. A tapered surface on the valve member forms a variable area opening at the valve seat which increases in area as the valve member moves from its closed and towards its open position while a compression spring urges the valve member towards its closed position. An indicator needle is mechanically connected to the valve member and reduces an exteriorly visible signal of the position of the valve member which, in turn, is representative of the fluid flow rate through the device. In addition, a seal member is secured to the housing around the valve seat and sealingly engages the valve member between its closed position and a partially open position. This seal member, which forms the surface between the valve member, also wipes and cleans the valve member as it moves between its closed and partially open position to prevent false readings from accumulated dirt on the valve member as well as enabling the device to indicate very small fluid flow rates.