Adjustable Valve Element for Multi-Phase Fluid Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for managing multi-phase and multi-component fluid streams, such as separating or mixing liquids, are inefficient due to turbulence and lack of precise control over fluid separation or mixing processes.
Innovation Solution
A valve with an adjustable element featuring intersecting flow passages that can be linearly translated or rotatably positioned to align with the stratification boundary of a fluid stream, allowing for precise separation or mixing of fluid components by altering the relative positions of the flow passages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a phase separator utilizing a weir plate or foil is used to divert flow, then fluid separation is achieved, but turbulence occurs and control precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The valve element is segmented with multiple flow passages (first flow passage, second flow passage) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows different portions of the stratified fluid to be directed through different passages, enabling precise control over separation while minimizing turbulence by providing dedicated pathways for each fluid component.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve element is made movable (translatable or rotatable) to dynamically adjust the positioning of flow passages relative to the inlet. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to varying flow conditions and maintain optimal separation efficiency while controlling turbulence levels by aligning passages with the stratification boundary.
2Reliability
If a fixed weir plate is used for flow diversion, then separation occurs, but adaptability to different flow conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve element can be translated linearly or rotated angularly to adjust the position of flow passages relative to the inlet port. This dynamic mechanism provides adaptability to different flow conditions, fluid densities, and viscosity combinations, allowing optimal separation performance across varying operational scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing geometric parameters (position of flow passages, angle of valve element) to optimize separation performance. By adjusting these parameters, the valve can adapt to different fluid properties and flow rates, maintaining reliable separation across diverse conditions.
3Measurement precision
If multiple flow passages are introduced for precise control, then separation precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single valve element integrates multiple flow passages and control functions within one component. This multi-functional design achieves precise control over fluid separation without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity while maintaining high control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve combines the functions of flow division, separation control, and adjustment mechanisms into a single integrated element. By merging these functions, the system achieves precise control capability without proportionally increasing complexity, as the combined structure operates more efficiently than separate components would.
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
Enables effective separation and mixing of fluid components with minimal turbulence, allowing for controlled diversion or combination of fluid streams based on density and viscosity differences, improving the management of multi-phase and multi-component fluid flows.
Implementation Method 1
controlled diversion or combination of fluid streams based on density and viscosity differences
Implementation Method 2
controlled diversion or combination of fluid streams based on density and viscosity differences
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-phase separation flow management system includes a housing with an inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet and in which a movable element is mounted. The movable element has a first passageway with an inlet and an outlet and a second passageway having an inlet and an outlet, and are disposed in the element so that the inlets of the first and second passageways are adjacent one another and the outlets of the first and second passageways are spaced apart from one another. The inlets are disposed adjacent a housing inlet, the first passageway outlet is disposed adjacent a first housing outlet and the second passageway outlet is disposed adjacent a second housing outlet.