Main Stage In-Line Pressure Control Cartridge with Optional Reverse Flow Function

Abstract

A main stage in-line pressure control cartridge. The cartridge selectively controls flow in-line in the same direction as opposed to directing flow at a 90 degree angle like other cartridges. A tubular poppet can be mounted into a body and has a sliding control sleeve that can expose radial holes in the poppet to an open position and to seal the radial holes in a closed position. The cartridge can be configured in numerous ways in order to serve many functions, such as a pressure relief valve, a counterbalance valve, and a flow control valve. The cartridge can also be configured to allow or prevent reverse flow.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An apparatus, comprising:
 tubular poppet means comprising a first end and a second end;   a hole set means in the tubular poppet;   a control sleeve means attached to the second end, the control sleeve configured to slide from the second end to a control sleeve stopping point on the tubular poppet towards the first end in open position; and   a spring means positioned around the tubular poppet and configured such that the spring naturally pushes the control sleeve towards the second end in a closed position.