Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

The fluid-operated, double diaphragm pump of the invention includes a central housing block having opposed side faces, and a pair of diaphragm housing end sections secured to opposite sides of the central housing block. The diaphragm housings define a pair of enclosures having a common central axis. Mounted in each of the diaphragm housings is a diaphragm that serves to divide each enclosure into an inner pumping chamber, defined by a side face of the housing block and the diaphragm, and a drive chamber defined by the opposite side of the diaphragm and, at least in part, by the inner surface of the respective end section. The central housing block defines inlet and discharge passages for the inner pumping chambers, the flow of material through the passages being controlled by one-way check valves associated therewith. In one embodiment of the invention, the pump also includes a connecting arrangement disposed externally of the pumping chambers. The connecting arrangement links the diaphragms to one another for simultaneous flexing movement. A valve assembly is associated with the connecting arrangement, and alternately supplies drive fluid under pressure to the fluid drive chambers, in response to movement of the connecting arrangement. A source of operating fluid pressure and a control valve system are also provided. In another, preferred embodiment, the modular double-diaphragm pump of the present invention includes separate drive mechanisms for each of the flexible diaphragms. Such configuration further reduces the number of parts required for the pump, thus greatly simplifying and facilitating ease of assembly and disassembly of the pump. This configuration also allows the diaphragms of any number of pumps to be controlled independently of one another, thus greatly enhancing the versatility of the system.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim