Noise attenuation device and fluid coupling comprised thereof

Abstract

Embodiments of a noise attenuation device comprise a plurality of stacked plates that form channels to reduce energy in a flow of working fluid that transits the noise attenuation device. In one embodiment, the stacked plates include plates having openings in different patterns. Orientation of the plates align the patterns in a housing to form the channels. In one example, the plates are disposed in a fluid coupling (e.g., a valve and / or flow regulator) that includes a throttling element. The plates are spaced apart from the throttling element, thereby permitting the working fluid to flow through all of the channels whether the throttling element is fully or partially open.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of priority pursuant to relevant sections of 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61 / 699,153, filed on Sep. 10, 2012 and entitled “NOISE ATTENUATION DEVICE AND APPARATUS COMPRISED THEREOF,” the content of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND[0002]The subject matter of this disclosure relates to noise attenuation in fluid couplings, e.g., valves and flow regulators.[0003]The flow of working fluids (e.g., gas and liquids) through fluid couplings can generate unfavorable operating conditions. Changes in pressure of the working fluid across the fluid coupling can lead to fluid dynamics that cause noise, heat, and mechanical vibrations. The resulting noise may reach well above 100 dba and, often, exceed regulations that set limits on acceptable exposure to noise in the workplace.[0004]Some fluid couplings incorporate devices that can address these problems...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes an improvement in noise attenuation for fluid couplings that addresses wear issues in a cost-effective design. The improvements separate the noise attenuation device from the throttling element, resulting in better fluid velocity management to reduce wear and erosion damage. The noise attenuation device utilizes multiple plates with openings that form the channels, which require only two types of plates with different patterns of openings. The channels have a plurality of turns to change the direction of the flow and reduce noise. The design features a stacked configuration that positions the plates in only two orientations to form the channels, which helps avoid improper orientation that would fail to properly form channels through which the working fluid can flow.

Problems solved by technology

However, these devices employ plates that simplify assembly of the channels.

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