Asymmetric Regulator Valve Assembly for Stable High-Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current direct acting regulator valves for high pressure and ultrahigh pressure pumps experience 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 displaced, biasing the valve pin away from its central axis, thereby stabilizing the pressure signal and minimizing fluctuations by disrupting the uniform flow path.
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 introduces an asymmetrical surface feature on the valve pin that disrupts the symmetrical flow path of pressurized fluid. This asymmetry creates unbalanced hydrodynamic forces that generate a stabilizing moment counteracting the oscillatory tendencies of the direct acting regulator valve, thereby eliminating pressure oscillations and improving pressure signal stability
2Reliability
If the valve pin is held in closed position by spring force, then pressure control is achieved, but pressure build-up beyond acceptable level occurs when fluid demand decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The regulator valve uses a direct acting mechanism where pressurized fluid acts directly on the valve pin to open it when outlet chamber pressure exceeds the preset limit. This immediate feedback response prevents dangerous pressure build-up by automatically relieving excess pressure without delay, while the spring force provides the biasing mechanism for normal closed position operation
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 significantly reduces pressure oscillations and ensures stable, consistent operating pressures, enhancing the durability and performance of the regulator valve assembly, particularly in high-pressure applications.
Implementation Method 1
unbalanced hydrodynamic forces arise from an interaction of the fluid with the asymmetrical surface feature
Implementation Method 2
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
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.