Propellant flow regulating valve for recoverable liquid rocket engine

Abstract

The application provides a propellant flow regulating valve for a recoverable liquid rocket engine, comprising: an electric device, a valve body, a valve seat assembly and a second valve core, the valve body is connected with the electric device, the valve seat assembly is slidingly installed in the valve body, the second valve core is rotatably installed in the valve body, the electric device is in transmission connection with the second valve core, and the valve seat assembly is in abutment with the second valve core.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of liquid rocket engine fuel delivery technology, and more particularly to a propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of aerospace technology, reusable liquid rockets have become the mainstream in the market. Their engines face more stringent requirements for thrust adjustment structures than expendable engines, demanding longer lifespans, higher reliability, and faster response. Engines typically adjust thrust by regulating fuel flow. Currently, one of the mainstream technologies for achieving wide-range thrust adjustment is the use of adjustable cavitation venturi tubes or needle-type injectors. However, under extreme reusable operating conditions, these solutions have revealed inherent limitations, showing significant shortcomings in terms of maintenance-free operation and stability under extreme conditions for future ultra-high-frequency reusable missions. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine, which addresses the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0004] The technical solution of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: A propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine, comprising: an electric device, a valve body, a valve seat assembly, and a second valve core, wherein the valve body is connected to the electric device, the valve seat assembly is slidably installed in the valve body, the second valve core is rotatably installed in the valve body, the electric device is throttlely connected to the second valve core, and the valve seat assembly abuts against the second valve core.

[0005] The beneficial effects of adopting the technical solution of this invention are that, driven by an electric device, the valve core can be controlled to open at any angle, featuring a wide adjustment range, stable adjustment, and fast response. The valve seat is a movable valve seat, which presses the valve core under the action of the first spring and the bellows, ensuring a stable and reliable seal. When the valve core deforms under high-pressure media or the valve seat sealing surface experiences slight wear, the valve seat can compensate for the deformation and wear under the action of the first spring and the bellows, allowing the valve to continue to maintain a sealed state. When closing, excess material on the valve seat is scraped off, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal.

[0006] Furthermore, the second valve core is an eccentric valve core; the valve seat assembly includes: a valve seat, a bellows, and a first spring, the valve seat is slidably mounted in the valve body through the bellows and the first spring, and the valve seat abuts against the second valve core.

[0007] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solutions are as follows: The flow control valve structure adopts a ball valve sealing form, and the valve seat is a movable valve seat. Under the action of the first spring and the bellows, the valve core is pressed tightly, ensuring stable and reliable sealing. When the valve core deforms under high-pressure media or the valve seat sealing surface experiences slight wear, the valve seat can compensate for the deformation and wear under the action of the first spring and the bellows, allowing the valve to continue to maintain a sealed state. The valve seat assembly is equipped with two elastic elements: a first spring and a bellows, which presses the valve seat and valve core together and seals them, while also providing a compensation function to the valve seat assembly. The valve core adopts an eccentric structure, so that the valve core rotates in a cam-like manner. When the valve opens, the spherical sealing surface of the valve core quickly disengages from the valve seat; when closed, it only contacts the valve seat last. There is almost no friction between the valve core and the valve seat, reducing the valve driving torque and improving the valve's service life. When the valve core closes, it scrapes off excess material on the valve seat, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal.

[0008] Furthermore, the valve body is connected to an inlet flange via a third fastener, a first graphite sealing ring is provided between the valve body and the inlet flange, a support ring is snapped onto the valve seat, the two ends of the first spring abut against the support ring and the inlet flange respectively, a base is mounted on the valve body, there is a gap between the base and the valve seat, the two ends of the bellows abut against the support ring and the base respectively, a non-metallic sealing surface is mounted on the valve seat, and the non-metallic sealing surface abuts against the second valve core.

[0009] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is that there is a gap between the valve seat and the base in the valve seat assembly, and the valve seat has an automatic self-aligning function when the valve is closed. The flow regulating valve structure adopts a ball valve sealing form, and the valve seat is a movable valve seat. Under the action of the first spring and the bellows, the valve core is pressed together, ensuring stable and reliable sealing. The valve seat assembly is equipped with two elastic elements, the first spring and the bellows, which press the valve seat and the valve core together and seal them, while also enabling the valve seat assembly to have a compensation function. When the valve core deforms under high pressure or the valve seat sealing surface experiences slight wear, the valve seat can compensate for the deformation and wear under the action of the first spring and the bellows, allowing the valve to continue to maintain a sealed state.

[0010] Furthermore, the second valve core is connected to a lower valve stem and an upper valve stem respectively. The lower valve stem and the upper valve stem are rotatably mounted on the valve body through bearings. The upper valve stem is connected to the electric device through a heat insulation sleeve. The valve body is connected to an end cap through a fourth fastener. A wave spring is provided between the end cap and the bearing on the lower valve stem.

[0011] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are that a heat insulation pad is provided between the electric actuator and the valve body, and a heat insulation sleeve is provided between the electric actuator and the upper valve stem, effectively reducing the impact of the medium temperature on the electric actuator. Self-aligning bearings are provided on both the upper and lower valve stems, ensuring smooth and flexible rotation of the valve core and providing self-aligning function when the valve core and valve seat are pressed together. A wave spring is provided between the bearing of the lower valve stem and the end cover to ensure smooth and stable rotation of the valve stem without any movement, while also improving the alignment of the valve core and valve seat and providing support and preload for the bearing.

[0012] Furthermore, the second valve core is provided with an upper valve stem connector and a lower valve stem connector, which are respectively connected to the upper valve stem and the lower valve stem. A gasket, a second graphite sealing ring, a bushing, and a plug ring are provided between the upper valve stem and the valve body. The gasket and the bushing are both sleeved on the upper valve stem. The second graphite sealing ring is located between the bushing and the valve body, and the plug ring is located between the bushing and the upper valve stem.

[0013] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is that a gasket and a bushing are installed between the upper valve stem and the valve body, a sealing ring is installed between the upper valve stem and the bushing for sealing, and a second graphite sealing ring is installed between the valve body and the bushing for sealing.

[0014] Furthermore, the second valve core has a structure of a 1 / 4 ball and a flow channel. The second valve core is provided with a sealing spherical surface and a flow channel. The sealing spherical surface abuts against the valve body, and the flow channel is provided with a U-shaped guide groove.

[0015] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are that the valve core adopts a 1 / 4 ball and flow channel structure, which reduces the weight of the valve core and increases its strength. The valve core flow channel is provided with a U-shaped guide groove, which can reduce the medium resistance and reduce the torque required for valve operation during valve actuation.

[0016] Furthermore, the second valve core is provided with a valve core flow channel center, a ball center, and upper and lower valve stem centers. The ball center and the upper and lower valve stem centers are eccentrically opposed to each other, and the valve core flow channel center and the valve core flow channel center are eccentrically opposed to each other.

[0017] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are as follows: The valve core employs an eccentric structure, including three eccentric dimensions. The first and second eccentric dimensions of the valve core are the eccentricity of the upper and lower valve stem centers relative to the center of the valve core spherical surface. This causes the valve core to exhibit a cam effect when rotating. When the valve is open, the spherical sealing surface of the valve core quickly disengages from the valve seat; when closed, it only contacts the valve seat last. There is almost no friction between the valve core and the valve seat, reducing the valve driving torque and improving the valve's service life. When the valve core closes, it scrapes away excess material on the valve seat, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal. The valve core employs an eccentric structure, including three eccentric dimensions. The third eccentricity of the valve core is the eccentricity of the valve core flow channel center relative to the center of the valve core spherical surface. This ensures that when the valve core is in the open state, the center of the valve core flow channel coincides with the center of the valve seat flow channel, effectively reducing valve flow resistance.

[0018] Furthermore, the valve body is connected to a connector via a second fastener, the electric actuator is connected to the connector via a first fastener, and a heat insulation pad is provided between the connector and the electric actuator.

[0019] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is that a heat insulation pad is provided between the electric actuator and the valve body, and a heat insulation sleeve is provided between the electric actuator and the upper valve stem, which effectively reduces the influence of the medium temperature on the electric actuator. The connector is installed on the valve body by a second fastener, which simultaneously presses the second graphite sealing ring, bushing, plug ring and washer ring to achieve the shaft head seal of the upper valve stem.

[0020] Furthermore, the valve body is provided with a vent and a purge port, and a one-way valve assembly is installed at the vent; both the vent and the purge port are connected to the valve body.

[0021] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are that the valve body is provided with a vent, and the vent is equipped with a one-way valve assembly, which can discharge the medium leaking from the upper valve stem while preventing gas backflow. The valve body is also provided with a purge port, which, when connected to an air source, can purge the remaining medium inside the valve to prepare for engine starting.

[0022] Furthermore, the one-way valve assembly includes: a nut, a second spring, and a first valve core. The nut is connected to the valve body via threads. The second spring and the first valve core are both disposed in the nut. The two ends of the second spring abut against the nut and the first valve core, respectively. A conical surface is provided at the outlet. The first valve core has a conical structure and is abutted by the outlet.

[0023] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is that the second spring and the first valve core are installed in the nut, the nut is connected to the outlet on the valve body through the thread, and presses the first valve core so that the first valve core is sealed with the conical surface of the outlet on the valve body, allowing gas to flow out in only one direction.

[0024] The advantages of additional aspects of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 The main structural view of the propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 A side view of a propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A magnified view of the structure shown at point A.

[0029] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A magnified view of the structure shown at point B.

[0030] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A magnified view of the structure shown at point C.

[0031] Figure 6 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the valve core provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a second schematic diagram of the valve core provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The diagram shows a structure cut along section line DD.

[0034] Figure 9 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the valve-closed state of the structure cut along section line EE.

[0035] Figure 10 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the valve-open state of the structure cut along section line EE.

[0036] Reference numerals: 1. Electric actuator; 2. First fastener; 3. Connector; 4. Second fastener; 5. Valve body; 6. Inlet flange; 7. Valve seat assembly; 71. Support ring; 72. Valve seat; 73. Bellows; 74. Base; 75. Non-metallic sealing surface; 76. First spring; 8. Check valve assembly; 81. Nut; 82. Second spring; 83. First valve core; 9. First graphite sealing ring; 10. Third fastener; 11. Fourth fastener; 12. End cap; 13. Wave spring; 14. Bearing; 15. Lower valve stem; 16. Second valve core; 17. Upper valve stem; 18. Heat insulation sleeve; 19. Heat insulation pad; 20. Gasket ring; 21. Second graphite sealing ring; 22. Bushing; 23. Plug ring; 24. Upper valve stem connector; 25. Lower valve stem connector; 26. Drain outlet; 27. Blowout port; 28. U-shaped guide groove; 29. ​​First eccentricity; 30. Second eccentricity; 31. Third eccentricity; 32. Sealing spherical surface; 33. Flow channel; 34. Valve core flow channel center; 35. Ball center; 36. Upper and lower valve stem centers. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The principles and features of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described are only for explaining the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0038] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0039] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.

[0040] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0041] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that if terms such as "upper", "lower", "horizontal", "inner" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship in which the product of the invention is usually placed during use, they are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0043] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine, comprising: an electric device 1, a valve body 5, a valve seat assembly 7, and a second valve core 16. The valve body 5 is connected to the electric device 1, the valve seat assembly 7 is slidably installed in the valve body 5, the second valve core 16 is rotatably installed in the valve body 5, the electric device 1 is kinetically connected to the second valve core 16, and the valve seat assembly 7 abuts against the second valve core 16.

[0044] The beneficial effects of adopting the technical solution of this invention are that, driven by an electric device, the valve core can be controlled to open at any angle, featuring a wide adjustment range, stable adjustment, and fast response. The valve seat is a movable valve seat, which presses the valve core under the action of the first spring and the bellows, ensuring a stable and reliable seal. When the valve core deforms under high-pressure media or the valve seat sealing surface experiences slight wear, the valve seat can compensate for the deformation and wear under the action of the first spring and the bellows, allowing the valve to continue to maintain a sealed state. When closing, excess material on the valve seat is scraped off, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal.

[0045] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the second valve core 16 is an eccentric valve core; the valve seat assembly 7 includes a valve seat 72, a bellows 73 and a first spring 76, the valve seat 72 is slidably mounted in the valve body 5 through the bellows 73 and the first spring 76, and the valve seat 72 abuts against the second valve core 16.

[0046] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solutions are as follows: The flow control valve structure adopts a ball valve sealing form, and the valve seat is a movable valve seat. Under the action of the first spring and the bellows, the valve core is pressed tightly, ensuring stable and reliable sealing. When the valve core deforms under high-pressure media or the valve seat sealing surface experiences slight wear, the valve seat can compensate for the deformation and wear under the action of the first spring and the bellows, allowing the valve to continue to maintain a sealed state. The valve seat assembly is equipped with two elastic elements: a first spring and a bellows, which presses the valve seat and valve core together and seals them, while also providing a compensation function to the valve seat assembly. The valve core adopts an eccentric structure, so that the valve core rotates in a cam-like manner. When the valve opens, the spherical sealing surface of the valve core quickly disengages from the valve seat; when closed, it only contacts the valve seat last. There is almost no friction between the valve core and the valve seat, reducing the valve driving torque and improving the valve's service life. When the valve core closes, it scrapes off excess material on the valve seat, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal.

[0047] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, further, the valve body 5 is connected to the inlet flange 6 by the third fastener 10, a first graphite sealing ring 9 is provided between the valve body 5 and the inlet flange 6, the valve seat 72 is snapped with the support ring 71, the two ends of the first spring 76 abut against the support ring 71 and the inlet flange 6 respectively, a base 74 is installed on the valve body 5, there is a gap between the base 74 and the valve seat 72, the two ends of the bellows 73 abut against the support ring 71 and the base 74 respectively, a non-metallic sealing surface 75 is installed on the valve seat 72, and the non-metallic sealing surface 75 abuts against the second valve core 16.

[0048] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is that there is a gap between the valve seat and the base in the valve seat assembly, and the valve seat has an automatic self-aligning function when the valve is closed. The flow regulating valve structure adopts a ball valve sealing form, and the valve seat is a movable valve seat. Under the action of the first spring and the bellows, the valve core is pressed together, ensuring stable and reliable sealing. The valve seat assembly is equipped with two elastic elements, the first spring and the bellows, which press the valve seat and the valve core together and seal them, while also enabling the valve seat assembly to have a compensation function. When the valve core deforms under high pressure or the valve seat sealing surface experiences slight wear, the valve seat can compensate for the deformation and wear under the action of the first spring and the bellows, allowing the valve to continue to maintain a sealed state.

[0049] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the second valve core 16 is further connected to a lower valve stem 15 and an upper valve stem 17. The lower valve stem 15 and the upper valve stem 17 are rotatably mounted on the valve body 5 through bearings 14. The upper valve stem 17 is connected to the electric device 1 through a heat insulation sleeve 18. The valve body 5 is connected to an end cap 12 through a fourth fastener 11. A wave spring 13 is provided between the end cap 12 and the bearing on the lower valve stem 15.

[0050] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are that a heat insulation pad is provided between the electric actuator and the valve body, and a heat insulation sleeve is provided between the electric actuator and the upper valve stem, effectively reducing the impact of the medium temperature on the electric actuator. Self-aligning bearings are provided on both the upper and lower valve stems, ensuring smooth and flexible rotation of the valve core and providing self-aligning function when the valve core and valve seat are pressed together. A wave spring is provided between the bearing of the lower valve stem and the end cover to ensure smooth and stable rotation of the valve stem without any movement, while also improving the alignment of the valve core and valve seat and providing support and preload for the bearing.

[0051] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the second valve core 16 is further provided with an upper valve stem connector 24 and a lower valve stem connector 25. The upper valve stem connector 24 and the lower valve stem connector 25 are respectively connected to the upper valve stem 17 and the lower valve stem 15. A gasket 20, a second graphite sealing ring 21, a bushing 22 and a plug ring 23 are provided between the upper valve stem 17 and the valve body 5. The gasket 20 and the bushing 22 are both sleeved on the upper valve stem 17. The second graphite sealing ring 21 is located between the bushing 22 and the valve body 5, and the plug ring 23 is located between the bushing 22 and the upper valve stem 17.

[0052] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is that a gasket and a bushing are installed between the upper valve stem and the valve body, a sealing ring is installed between the upper valve stem and the bushing for sealing, and a second graphite sealing ring is installed between the valve body and the bushing for sealing.

[0053] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the second valve core 16 further comprises a 1 / 4 ball and a flow channel structure. The second valve core 16 is provided with a sealing spherical surface 32 and a flow channel 33. The sealing spherical surface 32 abuts against the valve body 5, and the flow channel 33 is provided with a U-shaped guide groove 28.

[0054] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are that the valve core adopts a 1 / 4 ball and flow channel structure, which reduces the weight of the valve core and increases its strength. The valve core flow channel is provided with a U-shaped guide groove, which can reduce the medium resistance and reduce the torque required for valve operation during valve actuation.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the second valve core 16 is further provided with a valve core flow channel center 34, a ball center 35 and upper and lower valve stem centers 36. The ball center 35 and the upper and lower valve stem centers 36 have a first eccentricity 29 and a second eccentricity 30, and the valve core flow channel center 34 and the valve core flow channel center 36 have a third eccentricity 31.

[0056] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are as follows: The valve core employs an eccentric structure, including three eccentric dimensions. The first and second eccentric dimensions of the valve core are the eccentricity of the upper and lower valve stem centers relative to the center of the valve core spherical surface. This causes the valve core to exhibit a cam effect when rotating. When the valve is open, the spherical sealing surface of the valve core quickly disengages from the valve seat; when closed, it only contacts the valve seat last. There is almost no friction between the valve core and the valve seat, reducing the valve driving torque and improving the valve's service life. When the valve core closes, it scrapes away excess material on the valve seat, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal. The valve core employs an eccentric structure, including three eccentric dimensions. The third eccentricity of the valve core is the eccentricity of the valve core flow channel center relative to the center of the valve core spherical surface. This ensures that when the valve core is in the open state, the center of the valve core flow channel coincides with the center of the valve seat flow channel, effectively reducing valve flow resistance.

[0057] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the valve body 5 is further connected to the connector 3 by the second fastener 4, the electric device 1 is connected to the connector 3 by the first fastener 2, and a heat insulation pad 19 is provided between the connector 3 and the electric device 1.

[0058] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is that a heat insulation pad is provided between the electric actuator and the valve body, and a heat insulation sleeve is provided between the electric actuator and the upper valve stem, which effectively reduces the influence of the medium temperature on the electric actuator. The connector is installed on the valve body by a second fastener, which simultaneously presses the second graphite sealing ring, bushing, plug ring and washer ring to achieve the shaft head seal of the upper valve stem.

[0059] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the valve body 5 is further provided with a discharge port 26 and a purge port 27, and a one-way valve assembly 8 is installed at the discharge port 26; both the discharge port 26 and the purge port 27 are connected to the valve body 5.

[0060] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are that the valve body is provided with a vent, and the vent is equipped with a one-way valve assembly, which can discharge the medium leaking from the upper valve stem while preventing gas backflow. The valve body is also provided with a purge port, which, when connected to an air source, can purge the remaining medium inside the valve to prepare for engine starting.

[0061] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the one-way valve assembly 8 further includes: a nut 81, a second spring 82, and a first valve core 83. The nut 81 is connected to the valve body 5 by threads. The second spring 82 and the first valve core 83 are both disposed in the nut 81. The two ends of the second spring 82 abut against the nut 81 and the first valve core 83, respectively. A conical surface is provided at the discharge port 26. The first valve core 83 has a conical structure and abuts against the discharge port 26.

[0062] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is that the second spring and the first valve core are installed in the nut, the nut is connected to the outlet on the valve body through the thread, and presses the first valve core so that the first valve core is sealed with the conical surface of the outlet on the valve body, allowing gas to flow out in only one direction.

[0063] This invention relates to the field of fuel delivery technology for the start-up, main stage, and shutdown processes of liquid rocket engines, and particularly to a propellant flow regulating valve for reusable liquid rocket engines.

[0064] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, this invention provides a propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine. This flow regulating valve, driven by an electric device 1, can control the valve core (second valve core 16) to open at any angle, featuring a wide adjustment range, stable adjustment, and fast response. This flow regulating valve employs a ball valve sealing structure, with a movable valve seat 72 that presses the valve core (second valve core 16) against the first spring 76 and bellows 73, ensuring a stable and reliable seal. When the valve core (second valve core 16) deforms under high pressure or the valve seat sealing surface experiences slight wear, the valve seat 72, under the action of the first spring 76 and bellows 73, can compensate for the deformation and wear, allowing the valve to maintain a sealed state. Upon closing, excess material on the valve seat 72 is scraped off, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal.

[0065] The present invention provides a propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine, comprising an electric actuator, valve body, valve core, inlet flange, upper and lower valve stems, valve seat assembly, one-way valve assembly, connector, bushing, heat insulation sleeve, heat insulation pad, bearing, wave spring, graphite sealing gasket, etc.

[0066] Furthermore, the valve is driven by an adjustable electric actuator, which controls the valve core (second valve core 16) to open at any angle within the range of 0-90° via the shaft. It features a wide adjustment range, stable adjustment, and fast response.

[0067] Furthermore, the valve body is provided with a purge port 27, which can be connected to an air source to purge the remaining medium inside the valve, preparing for engine start-up.

[0068] Furthermore, the valve body is provided with a discharge port 26, and the discharge port 26 is provided with a one-way valve assembly 8, which can discharge the medium leaked at the upper valve stem 17, while preventing gas backflow.

[0069] Furthermore, the valve core adopts a 1 / 4 ball and flow channel structure (see...). Figure 6 This reduces valve core weight and increases valve core strength.

[0070] Furthermore, the valve core flow channel is provided with a U-shaped guide groove 28 (see...) Figure 6This reduces the resistance of the medium and the torque required for valve operation when the valve is activated.

[0071] Furthermore, the valve core adopts an eccentric structure (see...). Figure 8 The valve core has three eccentric dimensions. The first eccentricity 29 and the second eccentricity 30 are the eccentricities of the upper and lower valve stem centers 36 relative to the spherical center of the valve core (spherical center 35). This creates a cam effect when the valve core rotates. When the valve opens, the spherical sealing surface of the valve core (sealing spherical surface 32) quickly disengages from the valve seat 72. When closed, it only contacts the valve seat 72 last. There is almost no friction between the valve core and the valve seat 72, which reduces the valve driving torque and improves the valve's service life. When the valve core closes, it scrapes away excess material on the valve seat 72, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal.

[0072] Furthermore, the valve core adopts an eccentric structure (see...). Figure 8 It includes three eccentric dimensions. The third eccentricity 31 of the valve core is the eccentricity of the valve core flow channel center 34 relative to the valve core spherical center (spherical center 35). When the valve core is in the open state, the valve core flow channel center 34 coincides with the center of the valve seat flow channel, which effectively reduces the valve flow resistance.

[0073] Furthermore, the valve seat assembly 7 is provided with two elastic elements, a first spring 76 and a bellows 73, which press and seal the valve seat 72 against the valve core (second valve core 16), while also enabling the valve seat assembly 7 to have a compensation function.

[0074] Furthermore, there is a gap between the valve seat 72 and the base 74 in the valve seat assembly 7, and the valve seat 72 has an automatic self-aligning function when the valve is closed.

[0075] Furthermore, the valve body and seat assembly 7, the inlet flange 6, and the end cover 12 are sealed with graphite sealing rings.

[0076] Furthermore, the dynamic seal between the bushing 22 and the valve stem (upper valve stem 17) is sealed with a plug ring 23, and the seal between the bushing 22 and the valve body 5 is sealed with a graphite sealing ring.

[0077] Furthermore, a heat insulation pad 19 is provided between the electric actuator 1 and the valve body, and a heat insulation sleeve 18 is provided between the electric actuator 1 and the upper valve stem 17, which effectively reduces the influence of the medium temperature on the electric actuator 1.

[0078] Furthermore, the upper and lower valve stems are equipped with self-aligning bearings (bearing 14), which allow the valve core to rotate flexibly and smoothly, and provide self-aligning function when the valve core is pressed against the valve seat 72.

[0079] Furthermore, a wave spring 13 is provided between the bearing of the lower valve stem 15 and the end cover 12 to ensure that the valve stem rotates smoothly without any movement, while improving the alignment of the valve core and the valve seat.

[0080] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This flow regulating valve, driven by an electric device, can control the valve core opening angle to any degree, and features a wide adjustment range, stable adjustment, and fast response. This flow regulating valve adopts a ball valve sealing structure, with a movable valve seat 72 that presses the valve core (second valve core 16) against the action of the first spring 76 and the bellows 73, ensuring a stable and reliable seal. When the valve core (second valve core 16) deforms under high pressure or the valve seat sealing surface experiences slight wear, the valve seat 72, under the action of the first spring 76 and the bellows 73, can compensate for the deformation and wear, allowing the valve to continue to maintain a sealed state. Upon closing, excess material on the valve seat 72 is scraped off, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal.

[0081] Example 1 like Figures 1-6 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine, comprising: a valve body 5 serving as the support and mounting base for other components; a second valve core 16 having an upper valve stem connector 24 and a lower valve stem connector 25, the upper valve stem connector 24 and the lower valve stem connector 25 being connected to the upper valve stem 17 and the lower valve stem 15 respectively via splines and fixed inside the valve body 5; the lower valve stem 15 being fixed to the valve body 5 via a bearing 14 and being flexibly rotatable; a wave spring 13 being installed between the outer ring of the bearing 14 and the pressure cap (end cap 12) to provide support and preload for the bearing 14; a second graphite sealing ring 21 being installed in the sealing groove of the valve body 5, the pressure cap (end cap 12) being installed on the valve body 5 via a fourth fastener 11 to press the second graphite sealing ring 21 to achieve a sealing effect; the upper valve stem 17 being fixed to the valve body 5 via the bearing 14 and being flexibly rotatable; the upper valve stem 17 and the valve body 16 being fixed to the valve body 5 via the bearing 14; and the upper valve stem 17 and the valve body 16 being fixed to the valve body 5 via the bearing 14. A gasket 20 and a bushing 22 are installed between valve body 5 and valve body 6. A sealing ring 23 is installed between valve body 17 and bushing 22 for sealing. A second graphite sealing ring 21 is installed between valve body 5 and bushing 22 for sealing. The connector 3 is installed on valve body 5 by a second fastener 4, which simultaneously presses the second graphite sealing ring 21, bushing 22, sealing ring 23 and gasket 20 to achieve a shaft head seal of valve body 17. Valve seat assembly 7 is installed between valve body 5 and inlet flange 6. A first spring 76 is installed between valve seat assembly 7 and inlet flange 6. Sealing grooves are provided on valve body 5 and inlet flange 6. A first graphite sealing ring 9 is installed in the sealing grooves. Inlet flange 6 is installed on valve body 5 by a third fastener 10, which presses the first graphite sealing ring 9 to achieve a seal. Valve body 17 is connected to electric device 1 by a heat insulation sleeve 18. Electric device 1 is connected to connector 3 by a first fastener 2. A heat insulation pad 19 is provided in the middle and fixed to the top of connector 3.

[0082] In some implementations, such as Figure 1 As shown, a heat insulation pad 19 is provided between the electric device 1 and the connector 3, and a heat insulation sleeve 18 is provided between the electric device 1 and the upper valve stem 17, which effectively reduces the influence of the medium temperature on the electric device 1.

[0083] In some implementations, such as Figure 1 As shown, the electric device 1 is a regulating electric device. When it receives a command, it can drive the second valve core 16 to rotate to a specified angle, thereby achieving the requirement of regulating the flow rate.

[0084] In some implementations, such as Figure 2 As shown, the valve body 5 is provided with a discharge port and a purge port. The discharge port is equipped with a one-way valve assembly 8, which only allows discharge and does not allow backflow of the medium.

[0085] In some implementations, such as Figure 4 As shown, the valve seat assembly 7 includes a bellows 73, which is connected to the support ring 71 and the base 74 by welding, and has the functions of sealing and compensating for displacement; the valve seat 72 is connected to the support ring 71 by welding, and leaves a certain gap with the base 74; a non-metallic sealing surface 75 is press-fitted on the valve seat 72, which contacts and seals the second valve core 16.

[0086] In some implementations, such as Figure 4 As shown, the one-way valve assembly 8 includes a nut 81, a second spring 82, and a first valve core 83. The second spring 82 and the first valve core 83 are installed inside the nut 81. The nut 81 is connected to the outlet on the valve body 5 by threads and presses the first valve core 83 so that the first valve core 83 is sealed with the conical surface of the outlet on the valve body 5, allowing gas to flow out in only one direction.

[0087] In some implementations, such as Figure 6 As shown, the second valve core 16 adopts a 1 / 4 ball and flow channel structure, which reduces the weight of the second valve core 16 and increases its strength. The second valve core 16 is provided with a sealing spherical surface 32 and a flow channel 33. The second valve core 16 has a ball center 35 and upper and lower valve stem centers 36.

[0088] In some implementations, such as Figure 6 As shown, the flow channel of the second valve core 16 is provided with a U-shaped guide groove 28, which can reduce the medium resistance and reduce the torque required for valve operation when the valve is activated.

[0089] In some implementations, such as Figure 6 As shown, valve core 16 adopts an eccentric structure (see...). Figure 7 and Figure 8The valve core comprises three eccentric dimensions. The first eccentricity 29 and the second eccentricity 30 of the valve core create a cam effect when the valve core rotates. When the valve opens, the second valve core 16 quickly disengages from the non-metallic sealing surface 75; when closed, it only contacts the non-metallic sealing surface 75 last. There is almost no friction between the second valve core 16 and the non-metallic sealing surface 75, reducing the valve driving torque and improving the valve's service life. When the valve core closes, it scrapes away excess material on the valve seat 72, reducing the impact of excess material on the valve seal. The third eccentricity 31 of the valve core ensures that when the valve core is in the open state, the center 34 of the valve core flow channel coincides with the center of the flow channel of the valve seat assembly 7, effectively reducing the valve flow resistance.

[0090] In some embodiments, the upper valve stem 17 and the lower valve stem 15 are provided with bearings 14 to allow the second valve core 16 to rotate flexibly and smoothly, and to provide self-aligning function when the second valve core 16 is pressed against the non-metallic sealing surface 75.

[0091] Furthermore, a wave spring 13 is provided between the bearing of the lower valve stem 15 and the end cover 12 to ensure that the valve stem rotates smoothly without slippage, and to improve the alignment of the second valve core 16 with the non-metallic sealing surface 75.

[0092] The working process of a flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine provided in this embodiment of the invention is as follows: like Figure 1 As shown, the flow regulating valve is in the closed state. When the electric device 1 receives the valve opening instruction, it rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, which drives the upper valve stem 17 to rotate through the heat insulation sleeve 18. The upper valve stem 17 drives the second valve core 16 to rotate through the spline. The lower valve stem 15 rotates as a driven member. Due to the eccentric design, the second valve core 16 quickly disengages from the non-metallic sealing surface 75 in the valve seat assembly 7. The first spring 76 and the valve seat assembly 7 rebound, and the second valve core 16 continues to rotate. At this time, there is no friction with the non-metallic sealing surface 75 until it rotates to the required angle, the valve opens, and the medium flows, thus realizing the flow regulation function. When the flow regulating valve needs to be closed, the electric actuator 1 receives a valve-closing instruction and rotates counterclockwise. This rotation drives the upper valve stem 17 to rotate via the heat insulation sleeve 18. The upper valve stem 17 then drives the second valve core 16 to rotate via the spline. The lower valve stem 15, as a driven member, follows the rotation. When the second valve core 16 is about to close, it contacts the non-metallic sealing surface 75 in the valve seat assembly 7, pushing the valve seat 72 to move towards the inlet and stretching the bellows 73. At the same time, it compresses the first spring 76 until it rotates to the zero position, at which point the valve closes. The elastic force of the first spring 76 and the bellows 73 seals the non-metallic sealing surface 75 with the second valve core 16, thereby cutting off the flow of the medium.

[0093] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine, characterized in that, include: The device comprises an electric actuator (1), a valve body (5), a valve seat assembly (7), and a second valve core (16). The valve body (5) is connected to the electric actuator (1), the valve seat assembly (7) is slidably installed in the valve body (5), the second valve core (16) is rotatably installed in the valve body (5), the electric actuator (1) is drive-connected to the second valve core (16), and the valve seat assembly (7) abuts against the second valve core (16).

2. The propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second valve core (16) is an eccentric valve core; the valve seat assembly (7) includes: a valve seat (72), a bellows (73) and a first spring (76), the valve seat (72) is slidably installed in the valve body (5) through the bellows (73) and the first spring (76), and the valve seat (72) abuts against the second valve core (16).

3. The propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The valve body (5) is connected to the inlet flange (6) by the third fastener (10). A first graphite sealing ring (9) is provided between the valve body (5) and the inlet flange (6). The valve seat (72) is snapped with a support ring (71). The two ends of the first spring (76) abut against the support ring (71) and the inlet flange (6) respectively. A base (74) is installed on the valve body (5). There is a gap between the base (74) and the valve seat (72). The two ends of the bellows (73) abut against the support ring (71) and the base (74) respectively. A non-metallic sealing surface (75) is installed on the valve seat (72). The non-metallic sealing surface (75) abuts against the second valve core (16).

4. The propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second valve core (16) is connected to the lower valve stem (15) and the upper valve stem (17). The lower valve stem (15) and the upper valve stem (17) are rotatably mounted on the valve body (5) through the bearing (14). The upper valve stem (17) is connected to the electric device (1) through the heat insulation sleeve (18). The valve body (5) is connected to the end cover (12) through the fourth fastener (11). A wave spring (13) is provided between the end cover (12) and the bearing on the lower valve stem (15).

5. The propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second valve core (16) is provided with an upper valve stem connector (24) and a lower valve stem connector (25). The upper valve stem connector (24) and the lower valve stem connector (25) are respectively connected to the upper valve stem (17) and the lower valve stem (15). A gasket (20), a second graphite sealing ring (21), a bushing (22) and a plug ring (23) are provided between the upper valve stem (17) and the valve body (5). The gasket (20) and the bushing (22) are both sleeved on the upper valve stem (17). The second graphite sealing ring (21) is located between the bushing (22) and the valve body (5). The plug ring (23) is located between the bushing (22) and the upper valve stem (17).

6. The propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second valve core (16) has a structure of 1 / 4 ball and flow channel. The second valve core (16) is provided with a sealing ball surface (32) and a flow channel (33). The sealing ball surface (32) abuts against the valve body (5). The flow channel (33) is provided with a U-shaped guide groove (28).

7. A propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second valve core (16) is provided with a valve core flow channel center (34), a ball center (35) and upper and lower valve stem centers (36). There is a first eccentricity (29) and a second eccentricity (30) between the ball center (35) and the upper and lower valve stem centers (36), and there is a third eccentricity (31) between the valve core flow channel center (34).

8. The propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve body (5) is connected to the connector (3) by the second fastener (4), and the electric device (1) is connected to the connector (3) by the first fastener (2). A heat insulation pad (19) is provided between the connector (3) and the electric device (1).

9. A propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve body (5) is provided with a drain port (26) and a blow-out port (27), and a one-way valve assembly (8) is installed at the drain port (26); the drain port (26) and the blow-out port (27) are both connected to the valve body (5).

10. A propellant flow regulating valve for a reusable liquid rocket engine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The one-way valve assembly (8) includes: a nut (81), a second spring (82), and a first valve core (83). The nut (81) is connected to the valve body (5) by threads. The second spring (82) and the first valve core (83) are both disposed in the nut (81). The two ends of the second spring (82) abut against the nut (81) and the first valve core (83) respectively. A conical surface is provided at the outlet (26). The first valve core (83) has a conical structure and the outlet (26) abuts against the first valve core (83).

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