Additive Flow-Path Pressure Reducer for Low-Noise Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid pressure reduction devices in process control systems often lead to increased noise and vibration, and are costly and difficult to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A fluid pressure reduction device manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques, featuring a unitary body with customizable flow paths that include inlet, outlet, and curved intermediate sections, designed to reduce fluid pressure while minimizing noise and vibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If conventional pressure reduction devices are used, then fluid pressure is reduced, but noise and vibration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is divided into multiple segments including a first flow path with first plurality of flow paths and a second flow path with second plurality of flow paths. Each segment processes fluid flow independently, allowing progressive pressure reduction while maintaining flow control to minimize noise and vibration generation
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the device provide different flow characteristics. The first flow paths have specific geometries optimized for initial pressure reduction, while the second flow paths have different geometries for final pressure regulation. This localized optimization allows pressure reduction while controlling noise and vibration in each region
2Stress or pressure
If conventional pressure reduction devices are used, then fluid pressure is reduced, but manufacturing cost and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flow paths and control structures are merged into a single integrated body. The first flow paths, second flow paths, and various structural features are formed as one piece through additive manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate components and assembly operations, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional subtractive manufacturing or assembly of multiple mechanical components is replaced with additive manufacturing technology. This substitution enables complex three-dimensional flow paths to be created directly from digital models, significantly reducing manufacturing difficulty and cost while maintaining precise pressure reduction functionality
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
The device effectively reduces fluid pressure with enhanced efficiency and reduced noise and vibration, while being easier and less costly to manufacture than conventional devices.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the first flow paths includes an inlet section, an outlet section, and a curved intermediate section between the inlet and outlet sections
Data Source
AI summary
A method of custom manufacturing a fluid pressure reduction device for use in a process control valve. The method includes creating the fluid pressure reduction device using an additive manufacturing technique, which generally includes forming a body and forming a plurality of flow paths in the body. The body has an inner wall and an outer wall spaced radially outward of the inner wall. The flow paths are formed in the body between the inner wall and the outer wall of the body. Each of the flow paths includes an inlet section formed in one of the inner and outer walls, a curved intermediate section, and an outlet section formed in the other of the inner and outer walls.