Compressor Valve Arrangement with Angled Suction Valve
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In piston compressors, the size of the suction and discharge valves is limited by the need for a bulkhead to withstand differential pressure and provide support, which reduces the available space for the valves and ports, leading to less than optimal operation.
Innovation Solution
The suction and discharge ports are positioned on the diametral axis, with the valve arranged at an angle to this axis, and chamfers are formed inside the cylinder recess to support the valve in its open position, allowing for a larger discharge port and improved support without interfering with other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the discharge port is moved off the diametral axis to avoid covering by the suction valve, then the suction valve can be properly positioned for symmetric support, but the space available for the discharge port is reduced resulting in a smaller than desirable port size
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is arranged at an angle to the diametral axis rather than symmetrically, creating an asymmetric configuration that allows both the suction and discharge ports to be optimally positioned on the diametral axis while maintaining proper valve support and avoiding interference between components
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is positioned at an angular orientation relative to the diametral axis, utilizing the angular dimension to resolve the spatial conflict between the suction valve positioning requirements and the discharge port sizing requirements, allowing both to coexist optimally on the diametral axis
2Strength
If the bulkhead is made of sufficient size to withstand differential pressure and provide support, then structural integrity is ensured, but the available area for valves and valve ports is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The valve arrangement segments the port positioning along the diametral axis, with the suction port and discharge port positioned at different locations, allowing both ports to have adequate size while the bulkhead maintains its structural integrity through optimized support distribution
Solution Approach 2:
By positioning ports along the diametral axis rather than concentrating them in one location, the design utilizes the linear dimension of the diametral axis to distribute valve requirements, allowing larger port areas while maintaining bulkhead strength through proper structural support placement
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An arrangement for a compressor (20) having a suction valve (36) and discharge valve (56) is provided. The compressor (20) includes a cylinder (24) having a diametral axis (33). A valve plate (28) is positioned to cover the cylinder (24). The valve plate (28) includes a suction port (32) positioned on the diametral axis (33) and a discharge port (34). A suction valve (36) having a first end (44) is coupled to the valve plate (28) and a second end (46) is movable between a first position, in contact with suction port (32), and a second position. The suction valve (36) is arranged such that it is on an angle relative to the diametral axis (33).