Pressurized container with restrictor tube having multiple capillary passages

• Main Authors: LE FEBRE; DAVID A, SEMERDJIAN; ROY V, MARTIN, JR.; THOMAS B
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 28.12.1999
• Edition: 6
• Subjects: BLASTING; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED,LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; HEATING; LIGHTING; MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; STORING OF DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS; VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED ORSOLIDIFIED GASES; WEAPONS

The present invention uses a flow restrictor in the form of a tube containing multiple capillary sized passages to minimize any discharge of toxic gases from compressed gas cylinders in the unlikely event of the control valve or regulator failure. The use of this arrangement to provide a flow restriction in combination with a regulator in the form of dispensing check valve provides a virtually fail safe system for preventing hazardous discharge of fluid from a pressurized cylinder or tank. The multiple capillary passage structure provides carefully sized openings that minimize any discharge of gas. Location of the inlet to the capillary tube at the midpoint of the cylinder can also prevent the discharge of liquid from the cylinder if the control valve system fails. Limiting the accidental discharge of fluid from the cylinder to gas phase fluids greatly reduces the uncontrolled mass flow rate at which fluid can escape from the cylinder. A diaphragm can control the movement of a check valve element to prevent discharge of gas from a tank unless a predetermined vacuum condition exists downstream of the check valve. This system is particularly useful in the delivery of arsine gas and provides multiple safeguards against accidental discharge.