摘要 |
A fluid pressure valve actuator of the type utilized for controlling the operation of a ball-type valve is provided and includes a housing for supporting an actuating shaft for axial movement relative to the housing. A piston assembly is mounted within the housing and is responsive to fluid pressure for moving the shaft axially to an actuated position. A latch member is provided in the actuator for engagement with a shoulder portion on the actuating shaft to define an actuated position. In accordance with the present invention, the latch member is mounted for selective axial movement relative to the housing. This permits the axial position of the latch member to adjust the change in the actuating position of the shaft thereby compensating for wear in the internal components of the valve. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, a ratcheting element such as an adjustable collet lock is utilized as the means for supporting the latch member. The ratcheting element is responsive to axial movement of the piston assembly for selectively moving the latch member axially in one direction when an adjustment is required, but preventing axial movement of the latch member in the opposite direction.
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