Slow-Shift SPM Valve

摘要

The disclosure provides devices and methods for controlling the actuation rates of SPM valves by bi-directionally controlling the fluid which actuates the valve or by maintaining enclosed volumes which communicate with each other thru predetermined restrictions as the valve actuates. These enclosed volumes can be completely isolated, depth compensated, share fluid with the pilot actuating fluid, or utilize the main system fluid. The restrictions can be modified to increase or decrease the actuation rates of the SPM valve. The disclosure also provides control over the main system fluid passage opening and closing positions as well as how rapidly the flow passage areas increase or decrease while opening or closing the valve.

主权项

1. A subplate mounted (SPM) valve comprising:
a valve body having pilot port; a piston configured to be actuated by fluid from the pilot port; a valve chamber; a first control chamber formed in the body; a first flow restrictor fluidicly disposed between the valve chamber and the first control chamber configured to restrict flow in at least one direction between the valve chamber and the first control chamber; a cage coupled to the body and having a supply port, a return port, and a work port; and a spool slidably engaged with the cage and configured to selectively restrict flow between the supply port and the return port by actuation of the piston.