FLUID DISTRIBUTION DEVICE

摘要

A fluid distribution device (9) for fluid delivery to selected delivery ports, such as those of a cutting platten of pressure thermoforming machinery. The device (9) includes a distribution block (10) having an array of fluid flow passages (11) arranged in a plurality of at least first and second groups (15,16). Each flow passage (11) is included in a respective first group (15) and a resp3ective second group (16) of flow passages. Valve means (12) is iperable for controlling fluid flow through the passages (11). The valve means (12) includes an at least first series of valve members (19) of which each valve member (19) is associated with a respective one of the first group S (15) of flow passages (11), and an at least second series of valve members (20) of which each valve member (2) is associated with a respective one of the second group S (16) of flow passages (11). Each valve member (19,20) is movable between a closed position preventing flow through the associated flow passages (11) and an open position permitting flow along those passages (11). When all of the valve members (19,20) associated with any one flow passage (11) are in the open position fluid is able to flow through that passage (11). Apparatus (1) for distributing pressurised gas from a gas source (S) to a mould cavity (C) in a die body (D) of pressure thermoforming machinery, and incorporating the above distribution device (1) is also disclosed.