Braced Hollow Ball Valve Element for Low-Torque Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ball elements in rotary valves are not elastic enough to conform to the shape of the valve seat effectively, leading to higher friction and torque requirements, especially at low pressure drops, and are affected by temperature variations, making sealing engagement difficult.
Innovation Solution
A braced ball element with a body having an outer portion, a bore, and at least one brace disposed between the bore and the outer portion, allowing for varying thicknesses and configurations of the braces, which enhances elasticity and conformability to the valve seat, reducing the weight and spring force required for sealing engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a conventional solid ball element is used, then structural integrity is maintained, but elasticity and conformability to the valve seat are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The ball element is segmented into a hollow structure with internal braces, dividing the solid mass into functional zones that provide both structural support and elastic deformation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow ball structure with strategic brace placement creates a flexible shell that can deform and conform to the valve seat surface while maintaining overall structural integrity through the brace support system
2Force
If the ball element weight is increased to maintain seat load, then sealing force is improved, but friction and torque requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ball element transitions from solid to hollow construction, fundamentally changing the density and weight parameters while maintaining sealing force through optimized brace configuration and material distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The ball element combines hollow space with strategic brace structures to create a composite configuration that reduces weight while maintaining the necessary seat load through efficient structural arrangement
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional ball elements are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but sealing performance under temperature variations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow ball structure with braces creates a dynamically adaptable sealing surface that can deform in response to temperature variations and pressure changes, maintaining reliable sealing under varying operating conditions
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 braced ball element improves sealing performance by reducing friction and torque requirements, allowing for easier conformation to the valve seat, even under temperature variations and low pressure conditions, while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the hollow, braced ball element is more elastic than the conventional solid ball element, allowing the ball element to more easily conform to the shape of a sealing surface
Implementation Method 2
the hollow, braced ball element reduces the weight of the ball element, reducing an amount of spring force required to push the ball element into a valve seat
Data Source
AI summary
A rotary valve is provided for use in highly corrosive and abrasive applications. The valve includes a valve body defining an inlet, an outlet, and a valve interior in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet. The valve also includes a ball element disposed within the valve interior via a valve stem to control fluid flow through the valve, and a valve seat to sealingly engage the ball element. The ball element includes a body having an outside portion, a bore disposed through a center portion of the body, and at least one brace disposed between the bore and the outside portion to strengthen the ball element during highly corrosive and abrasive applications of the valve.