Pulsation dampener for beverage dispensers and fountain equipment

Abstract

A pulsation dampener for beverage dispensers and fountain equipment decreases the irregularities in concentrate flow from a single action pump and volumetric dispensing valve combination within a beverage dispenser. The pulsation dampener includes a tube for functionally connecting a pump to a valve, thus providing a flow line between the pump outlet and the valve inlet. The pulsation dampener can also provide a flow line between other beverage equipment functional modules or equipment installed between the pump and the valve. The tube retains and collects concentrate flow from the pump outlet to maintain a minimum fluid pressure on the valve inlet. A retainer around the tube prevents the internal fluid pressure within the tube from exceeding the maximum elongation stress of the tube material. Clamps at each end of the retainer, secure the retainer around the tube. Connectors between the pump and the tube, and between the tube and valve provide a liquid-tight fitting for the pulsation dampener operating in a beverage dispenser or fountain equipment. Material properties of the tube are compatible with the concentrate preventing chemical attack on the tube material. Elastic properties of the tube and the retainer combine to oppose the internal fluid pressure of the concentrate within the tube, thus creating a minimum fluid pressure at the valve inlet.