Modular check valve system

Abstract

A modular check valve system includes a plurality of modular check valves all having a common stack height. The common stack height allows for a substitution of individual valve modules. The substitution capability provides an economical way to increase or decrease the flow area through the valve assembly by varying size of the ball within the check valve. Thus, the specifications of the pump can be relatively easily changed, either at the factory or in the field. The modular construction also permits the use of different types of valves (e.g. flap valves, poppets, duckbills, or trihedrals) without having to change any additional pump fittings. In one embodiment, the modular valve system of the present invention is described in conjunction with a pump having at least one fluid communication fitting adapted to receive a check valve assembly. A fluid passage adjacent to, and adapted for a fluid communication with, the fitting includes a terminal end spaced a predetermined distance from the fitting, to define a predetermined dimensional envelope. A plurality of ball check valves having different sized ball valve elements contained therein is provided. Each of the valves includes a valve housing having a stack height and exterior cross section corresponding to the predetermined dimensional envelope. Any one of the plurality of valves can be secured in the predetermined dimensional envelope to determine the flow velocity and flow area of fluid passing through the pump.