3D Flow-Path Pressure Reduction Trim for Low-Noise Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid pressure reduction devices in process control systems often lead to increased noise and vibration, and are costly and inefficient in pressure reduction due to their design limitations.
Innovation Solution
A fluid pressure reduction device manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques, featuring a unitary body with customizable, complex flow paths that maximize pressure reduction by utilizing the entire device profile, reducing dead space and enhancing flow path lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If conventional pressure reduction devices are used, then pressure reduction is achieved, but noise and vibration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is divided into multiple sections (inlet, intermediate, outlet) with the intermediate section extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. This segmentation allows the fluid to undergo gradual pressure reduction through a longer, more controlled flow path, minimizing turbulence and the associated noise and vibration while achieving effective pressure reduction.
2Stress or pressure
If conventional pressure reduction devices are used, then pressure reduction is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines multiple functional elements (inlet aperture, intermediate section, outlet aperture, and flow path) into a single unitary body. This integration eliminates the need for assembling multiple separate components, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs while maintaining the complex flow path geometry necessary for effective pressure reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate section of the flow path extends in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, utilizing the vertical dimension within the device profile. This three-dimensional flow path configuration maximizes pressure reduction capabilities without increasing the device's external footprint, allowing for compact design that is easier and more cost-effective to manufacture.
3Stress or pressure
If conventional pressure reduction devices are used, then pressure reduction is achieved, but device efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate section extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, utilizing the vertical dimension within the device profile. This three-dimensional flow path configuration maximizes pressure reduction capabilities without increasing the device's external footprint, allowing for compact design that is easier and more cost-effective to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow path is designed with different characteristics in different sections: the inlet section, the intermediate section extending parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the outlet section. This localized optimization of flow path geometry in each section enhances the overall pressure reduction efficiency by controlling fluid flow and pressure distribution throughout the device.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of custom manufacturing a fluid pressure reduction device for use in a process control valve. The method includes creating the fluid pressure reduction device using an additive manufacturing technique, which generally includes forming a body and forming a plurality of flow paths in the body. The body has an inner wall and an outer wall spaced radially outward of the inner wall. The flow paths are formed in the body between the inner wall and the outer wall of the body. Each of the flow paths includes an inlet aperture, an outlet aperture, and an intermediate section extending between the inlet and outlet apertures. At least a portion of the intermediate section extends in a substantially vertical direction that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, such that the flow paths are able to utilize previously un-used space in the device.