Temperature controlled valve mechanism and method

摘要

The temperature controlled valve mechanism herein comprises a valve housing, a valve inlet in the housing for connection with a fluid source, a valve outlet in the housing for draining fluid from the housing and a valve closure member supported for movement toward and away from the valve outlet between closed and opened positions. The valve closure member blocks and closes the valve outlet when it is in the closed position. A biasing spring is provided for urging the valve closure member away from the closed position. An expansion chamber is formed within the housing. Apparatus for introducing a pressure into the expansion chamber is provided for moving the closure member to a closed position against the force of the biasing spring upon entry of a pressurized medium into the expansion chamber. A temperature-activated venting mechanism for venting and depressurizing the expansion chamber upon occurrence of a predetermined temperature drop is provided. Such temperature-activated venting system vents the pressurized medium from the expansion chamber causing the biasing spring to rapidly move the valve closure member from the closed position, whereupon the valve mechanism is opened. When the valve mechanism is thusly opened, the fluid within the system is drained from the system.