Rotationally orientable fluid handling devices

Abstract

Fluid handling devices comprise a body having a fluid passage therethrough and a fluid inlet and outlet at passage ends. The body is formed from a non-metallic material in a number of different forms, e.g., pipe fittings, pipes, valves and the like. The body includes weldable stubs that extend outwardly therefrom that are designed to facilitate welded attachment with the weldable stubs of an adjacent fluid handling device. To facilitate accurate rotational positioning of the device vis-a-vis other adjacent devices, one or more alignment marks are positioned along the device surface. The alignment marks are positioned on the device to provide an indication of rotational position of the device about an axis running through at least one of the weldable stubs. In one embodiment, the alignment marks are integral with and placed along an outside surface of the device body. In another embodiment, the alignment marks are integral with and placed along an outside surface of the weld stubs. The number of alignment marks placed on the fluid handling device can vary depending on the particular fluid handling device geometry and application. Devices of this invention can also include stubs that are specially engineered having a compact design to facilitate welding installation by providing a desired weld crush. Additionally, devices of this invention can also include a measuring reference point integral with the body for providing a measuring point between adjacently arranged fluid handling devices.