Patent attributes
A valve component utilized in a fluid end assembly of a reciprocating pump may contain a multi-piece construction. The valve component may include a valve body portion, a leg assembly portion, a sealing element, and an insert at least partially captured between the valve body portion and the leg assembly portion. The insert may be constructed from a carbide or a ceramic material, and, when the valve component is fully assembled, may be compressed between the valve body portion and the leg assembly portion. The insert may at least partially form the strike surface of the valve component. The valve body portion and the leg assembly portion may both be constructed from a metallic material, and the valve body portion may define a sealing seat. The sealing element may be constructed from an elastomeric material that may be pre-formed and then compression molded onto the seat of the valve body.