Diaphragm Valve Membrane Structure for Heat-Stable Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Membrane valves in high-temperature processes face material stress leading to reduced elasticity and compromised sealing due to material stress, resulting in wrinkles, cracks, and reduced service life.
Innovation Solution
A membrane design with differing compression sets between regions, where the first region has a larger compression set for increased flexibility and the second region has a smaller compression set for improved clamping, combined with an annular recess and ring structure to limit inward material flow and enhance sealing and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the membrane is uniformly designed with single compression set, then manufacturing is simple, but the membrane develops wrinkles and cracks under clamping forces
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane is designed with different compression sets in different regions: the first region (clamping area) has a first compression set optimized for clamping performance, while the second region (functional area) has a second compression set optimized for flexibility and resistance to wrinkling. This local differentiation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally without compromising overall membrane integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the membrane is made thinner to improve flexibility, then mobility is improved, but sealing capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane design allows different regions to have different thickness characteristics and compression set properties. The first region can be optimized for sealing with appropriate thickness and compression set, while the second region can be thinner or more flexible to ensure good mobility and responsiveness during actuation, achieving both sealing capability and membrane mobility.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the membrane material is hardened to improve durability, then service life is extended, but flexibility and sealing are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane uses different compression set values in different regions, allowing the first region to have properties optimized for durability and resistance to clamping forces, while the second region maintains higher flexibility for good mobility. This regional differentiation enables the membrane to achieve both extended service life and maintained flexibility during 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
The design enhances the membrane's sealing efficiency, mobility, and service life by reducing material accumulation and maintaining flexibility and clamping effects over time, even under strong clamping forces.
Implementation Method 1
a first compression set of the first region of the membrane (30) differing from a second compression set of the second region (32) of the membrane (4)
Data Source
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AI summary
A diaphragm (4) for a diaphragm valve is provided. The diaphragm (4) comprises an elastomer section (24) which includes: an inwardly facing first region (30) which has a first compression set; and a second region (32) laterally enclosing the first region (30) which has a second compression set which is smaller than the first compression set.