Actuator Coupling Hollow Shaft Thermal Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Metal valve actuators in industrial applications are prone to internal rust, especially in humid environments, which can lead to loss of transmission function.
Innovation Solution
The actuator coupling component features a hollow shaft with an openwork support and a thick heat barrier pad, along with a locking mechanism and circlip, to reduce heat transfer and prevent drifting, while through-holes on the shaft enhance ventilation and reduce temperature differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a solid shaft coupling component is used to connect the actuator and valve adapter, then the structural strength and rigidity are sufficient, but the heat transfer area is large which causes cold from the medium to transfer to the actuator, leading to condensation and rust
Solution Approach 1:
The solid shaft is segmented into a hollow shaft structure with internal partitions, dividing the continuous heat transfer path into separate sections. This segmentation reduces the effective heat transfer area while maintaining structural integrity through the partition walls, thereby reducing cold transfer to the actuator without sacrificing strength
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow shaft structure with internal partitions creates a porous-like configuration that reduces the solid material volume and heat transfer area. The partitioned hollow structure allows heat to transfer through a smaller effective area compared to a solid shaft, reducing the harmful thermal effect while maintaining mechanical strength
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the hollow shaft structure with reduced heat transfer area is implemented, then the heat transfer to actuator is reduced, but the structural rigidity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow shaft is divided into multiple sections by internal partitions, creating a segmented structure that maintains rigidity through the partition walls while reducing the overall heat transfer area. The segmentation provides structural reinforcement points that compensate for the reduced material volume
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling component uses composite construction with the hollow shaft structure combining thermal insulation properties with structural strength. The partitioned hollow design creates a composite-like effect where the air gaps and partition walls work together to provide both thermal barrier function and mechanical rigidity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design effectively minimizes the impact of medium temperature on the actuator, preventing condensation and maintaining mechanical performance by reducing heat transfer and rust formation.
Implementation Method 1
the heat transfer area of the shaft can be reduced effectively. In this way, transfer of cold from the medium in the valve adapter to the actuator through the actuator coupling component can be reduced
Implementation Method 2
through-holes arranged opposite each other or through-holes arranged in a staggered fashion are designed on the hollow shaft; dissipation of shaft heat by air can be increased, thereby reducing the shaft temperature difference
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are an actuator coupling component, an actuator assembly and an actuator valve assembly. The actuator coupling component comprises: a hollow shaft (33), having one end driven by the actuator (2) and another end connected to a valve adapter (1); the hollow shaft is capable of controlling, under a driving action of the actuator, an action of the valve adapter. The technical solution in the present patent application can ameliorate the problem of rust in actuators.