Inventors:
Robert E. West - Albuquerque NM
International Classification:
F16K 1106
Abstract:
Apparatus for manipulating at least two fluid flow circuits comprising a manifold, and a valve stem assembly with at least two stages in series, with each stage comprising a valve relief for communicating with at least two inlet and outlet ports, and a seal for blocking off or isolating a port. The apparatus of the invention allows at least two fluid flow circuits to be connected to the manifold in a parallel configuration to operate in a redundant manner. If the conduit or a fluid control or monitoring device within a circuit fails or requires maintenance, that particular circuit may be isolated from the process flow system by the multiple flow directing capability of the apparatus. Use of the apparatus of the invention enables the removal of valve devices or conduit in a circuit for repair or replacement without interrupting the on-line process fluid flow.