Unitary bearing and locator assembly for rotatable valves

摘要

A unitary bearing and locator assembly is provided having a body portion with a passageway therethrough and an integral shoulder flange portion. In one embodiment, this shoulder flange includes a rectilinear perimeter and a radiussed surface. In another embodiment, the shoulder flange has a generally curved perimeter with only a portion thereof being flattened. The bearing is adapted to be inserted in a valve assembly between a rotatable shaft, on which a valving member is mounted, and a shaft bore in the valve body. The shoulder flange is adopted to support and distribute the load from this valving member within the valve body and the fluid passageway therethrough. The linear portions shoulder flange perimeter are adapted to engage portions of the valve body and prevent rotation of the unitary bearing and locator with respect to the valve body. The radiussed surface of the shoulder flange is adapted to engage portions of said valve body to prevent bearing rotation, provide positive location, and improve load distribution and carrying capabilities.