Elliptical Valve Plug Geometry for Precise Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve plugs with angular or planar shapes hinder precise control of fluid flow due to adverse effects on flow coefficient and capacity, leading to increased operational expenses and downtime in industrial settings.
Innovation Solution
The design of an elliptically-shaped valve plug with a convex dome and integrally formed elliptically-shaped protrusions, which improves fluid distribution and reduces turbulence, coupled with a system including a controller and actuator for precise control of bi-directional fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If angular or planar valve plugs are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but flow coefficient and capacity are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by transitioning from angular or planar valve plug shapes to an elliptically-shaped valve plug with a convex dome. This curved geometry improves fluid distribution and reduces turbulence, thereby enhancing flow coefficient and capacity while maintaining manufacturability through integral formation of the elliptical shape.
2Device complexity
If angular or planar valve plugs are used, then device complexity is reduced, but flow control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The elliptical shape with convex dome provides superior flow control precision by improving fluid distribution and reducing turbulence. The curved geometry allows for more precise modulation of flow during opening and closing operations compared to angular or planar designs, while the integral formation keeps the structure relatively simple.
3Ease of manufacture
If angular or planar valve plugs are used, then manufacturing cost is lower, but operational expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elliptically-shaped valve plug with convex dome reduces turbulence and improves flow efficiency, leading to lower energy losses during operation. Although the curved geometry may slightly increase manufacturing complexity, the integral formation process and improved operational efficiency result in reduced overall operational expenses.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and devices for controlling flow of a fluid through a valve are provided. A valve plug can include a hub. The hub can include a hub body having a longitudinal axis extending through the hub body and a bore extending along the longitudinal axis extending through the hub body. The hub can also include at least one elliptically-shaped protrusion integrally formed within the hub body. The valve plug can also include a dome having a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and at least one side wall extending between the first surface and the second surface around a circumference of the dome. The valve plug can also include at least one arm extending between the hub body and the second surface of the dome. The valve plug can be coupled to a drive shaft and a controller in a variety of non-limiting valve types.