Asymmetric Regulator Valve Assembly for Pressure Oscillation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current direct acting regulator valves for high pressure and ultrahigh pressure pumps are susceptible to pressure oscillations due to hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces, leading to unstable pressure regulation and potential damage to pump components.
Innovation Solution
The regulator valve assembly incorporates a valve pin and valve seat with asymmetrical surface features that create unbalanced hydrodynamic forces when the valve pin is displaced, biasing it away from the central axis and stabilizing the pressure signal, thereby minimizing fluctuations and maintaining consistent operating pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a direct acting regulator valve is used for pressure control in high pressure pumps, then pressure regulation function is provided, but pressure oscillations occur due to hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing an asymmetrical surface feature on the valve pin that is not uniformly distributed around the central axis. This asymmetrical feature creates unbalanced hydrodynamic forces when fluid flows through the annular space, which generates a stabilizing effect that reduces pressure oscillations and improves pressure regulation stability.
2Stress or pressure
If the valve pin is displaced from the seated configuration, then fluid flows through the annular space to relieve pressure, but unbalanced hydrodynamic forces cause instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful unbalanced hydrodynamic forces into a beneficial stabilizing mechanism. The asymmetrical surface feature is specifically designed to generate unbalanced hydrodynamic forces that create a stabilizing effect, transforming what could be a source of oscillation into a pressure-stabilizing mechanism that reduces fluctuations during pressure relief operations.
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 solution effectively reduces pressure oscillations and maintains stable pressure regulation, enhancing the durability and performance of the regulator valve assembly, especially in high-pressure applications like waterjet cutting.
Implementation Method 1
unbalanced hydrodynamic forces arise from an interaction of the fluid with the asymmetrical surface feature
Data Source
AI summary
A regulator valve assembly is provided for use in connection with high pressure fluid systems. The regulator valve assembly includes a valve pin having an engagement portion with a tapered surface and a valve seat having a valve pin receiving aperture defining a tapered surface on the valve seat to sealingly mate with the engagement portion of the valve pin. At least one of the valve pin and the valve seat includes an asymmetrical surface feature sized and shaped such that, when the valve pin is displaced away from the seated configuration and fluid flows through an annular space created between the engagement portion of the valve pin and the valve seat, unbalanced hydrodynamic forces arise from an interaction of the fluid with the asymmetrical surface feature. Systems incorporating the regulator valve assembly are also provided.