Importance

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Abstract

A quick-disconnect coupling with a heat-sensitive cutoff feature for use in connecting a tank of pressurized gas (e.g., natural or LP gas) with a gas appliance, such as an outdoor gas grill. The coupling comprises interengageable plug and socket components, the latter component having a passage therethrough, a valve seat in the passage and a poppet valve in the passage comprising a valve stem and a sealing member soldered on the stem and engageable with the valve seat. A spring is engageable with the sealing member for biasing the poppet valve to a closed position for blocking flow through the passage. When inserted into the socket chamber, the plug component engages the valve stem for forcing the poppet valve open. In the event the temperature of the coupling rises to a temperature above the melting point of the solder bond between the sealing member and the valve stem, the sealing member is slidable on the stem into engagement with the valve seat for cutting off flow therepast.

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First Claim