Flow Path Insert for Fluid Control Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid control systems for high-pressure gases, such as oxygen, face issues with oxidizer-related auto-ignition events due to the ignition of materials like elastomers and polymers used in pressure regulators, which can lead to chain reactions and are often addressed with restrictive orifices and surge pressure valves that require additional components and complex geometries.
Innovation Solution
The use of a flow path insert made from ignition-resistant materials, featuring an upstream and downstream portion with distinct diameters and orientations, which defines intersecting passages to create a tortuous flow path that reduces kinetic energy and prevents ignition, integrated within a fluid control assembly to regulate pressure and flow rate while preventing auto-ignition events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If elastomers and polymers are used in pressure regulators for consistent and leak-free operation, then sealing performance is improved, but ignition resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes elastomeric and polymeric materials from the pressure regulator assembly entirely. The flow path insert is made from ignition-resistant materials such as metal or ceramic, eliminating the combustible materials that could contribute to auto-ignition while maintaining functional performance through alternative sealing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction with the flow path insert made from ignition-resistant material (metal or ceramic) that integrates multiple functions: flow regulation, sealing surfaces, and structural support. This composite approach replaces traditional elastomeric seals with metal-to-metal or ceramic-to-metal sealing interfaces.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If orifices and surge pressure valves are used to address ignition issues, then ignition resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path insert serves multiple functions simultaneously: it regulates flow rate through its geometry, provides sealing surfaces against the regulator body, directs fluid flow through integrated passages, and prevents auto-ignition through ignition-resistant material. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate orifices and surge pressure valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of flow regulation, sealing, and ignition protection into a single integrated flow path insert component. The insert's geometry and material properties work together to achieve all required functions without requiring additional separate components.
3Productivity
If restrictive orifices are used to control flow rate, then flow rate control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path insert's geometric features, including its passages and openings, provide flow rate control functionality while simultaneously serving as sealing surfaces and structural elements. This integrated approach eliminates the need for separate restrictive orifices.
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 inhibits ignition and auto-ignition events by reducing kinetic energy through a tortuous flow path, ensuring safe operation and maintaining fluid flow efficiency without the need for additional complex components, thus enhancing the safety and reliability of fluid delivery systems.
Implementation Method 1
The flow path insert defines an inlet passage and an outlet passage that intersect one another such that the pressurized fluid is forced to follow a tortuous flow path as it flows through the flow path insert. The tortuous flow path reduces the kinetic energy of the pressurized fluid sufficient to prevent ignition events.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow path insert for a fluid control assembly includes an upstream portion and a downstream portion integral with the upstream portion. The upstream portion includes an upstream peripheral surface and the downstream portion includes a downstream peripheral surface. The upstream portion and the downstream portion cooperate to define an inlet passage and an outlet passage in fluid communication with the inlet passage. The inlet passage defines a first axis and the outlet passage defines a second axis that is transverse to the first axis. When the flow path insert is positioned within a body of a fluid control assembly, the upstream peripheral surface is in contacting engagement with the body and the downstream peripheral surface is spaced from the body. At least the downstream portion of the flow path insert and the body cooperate to define an annular passage in fluid communication with the outlet passage. Fluid control assemblies are also disclosed.