Fluid coupler for use in the transfer of liquefied gases

Abstract

A fluid coupler connectable with a fitting of a variety which extends from an externally-threaded forward coupling end to a rearward port end. The coupler includes a body having an internal fluid passageway and valve stem. A distal end of the valve stem has a forward surface defining a seating portion, and a rearward surface engageable with a poppet valve of the fitting. A valve sleeve is received coaxially over the valve stem to define a fluid flow path therebetween. A rearward second end of the valve sleeve defines an outer periphery and an inner periphery configured to be received within the seating portion of the valve stem, and has a rearward confrontation surface with a seal member rotatably received within a mounting groove thereof. The valve sleeve is biased in a rearward first position wherein the second end thereof is received within the seating portion of the valve stem closing the fluid flow path, and is movable to a forward second position opening the fluid flow path. A coupling nut member is mounted over the coupling end of the valve body to be threadably engageable with the coupling end of the fitting for drawing the seal into a fluid-tight adjacency with a land portion of the fitting moving the valve sleeve from the first to second position, and for drawing the rearward surface of the valve stem into an abutting engagement with the poppet valve of the fitting which opens the valve.