Flowmeter Non-Return Valve Cleaning via Coaxial Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flowmeters face issues with non-return valves clogging due to particles in industrial fluids, leading to seal failure and pressure loss, especially in low-pressure applications, and are prone to damage from acids and high temperatures.
Innovation Solution
The non-return valve is integrated coaxially with the metering channel and in mechanical contact with the metering cone, allowing the cleaning mechanism to clear both the channel and valve, reducing pressure loss and enabling operation at higher temperatures and pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the non-return valve is placed apart from the metering channel in connection with the sealing fluid connection to the seal, then the non-return valve can prevent backflow, but particles in industrial fluid clog and jam the non-return valve
Solution Approach 1:
The non-return valve is merged with the metering channel by positioning it at the outlet end of the metering channel with the valve axis coinciding with the metering channel axis. This integration ensures that the non-return valve is located within the sealed metering channel environment, preventing particle contamination from industrial fluid from reaching and clogging the valve.
2Ease of operation
If the non-return valve is made of rubber or plastic, then the valve can provide light pressure to open, but the valve is vulnerable to damage from acids and high temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The flowmeter employs a composite material structure where the body is made of chemically resistant material (such as plastic or metal) that can withstand acids and high temperatures, while the non-return valve is made of softer material (rubber or plastic) that requires light opening pressure. This combination allows each component to be made from materials optimized for its specific functional requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If the cleaning means is integrated in the metering channel, then the metering channel can be cleaned, but the non-return valve placed apart from the metering channel cannot be cleaned effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The non-return valve is positioned at the outlet end of the metering channel such that it is integrated with the cleaning means. The cleaning means, which moves along the metering channel to remove deposits, can now also clean the non-return valve surface as it reaches the valve location, ensuring complete cleaning of all internal surfaces including the previously inaccessible valve area.
4Ease of operation
If the non-return valve requires light pressure to open, then the valve can open easily, but this causes pressure loss in the flowing fluid particularly in low pressure applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the non-return valve at the outlet end of the metering channel where the flow dynamics and pressure distribution are optimized. By locating the valve in this specific position with its axis coinciding with the metering channel axis, the valve operates in a region where the fluid pressure is more stable and higher, reducing the relative pressure loss while still maintaining easy opening characteristics.
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
This design prevents clogging, reduces pressure loss, and allows safe operation in harsh conditions by using a metal body and transparent or plastic pipe for readability, while maintaining low manufacturing costs through interchangeable float springs for different flow ranges.
Implementation Method 1
a spring placed in the metering channel and acting against the flow direction on the float
Implementation Method 2
a cleaning means which is placed in the metering channel between the float and the metering channel inlet side end to extend to the inner surface of the metering channel and which is movable in the metering channel
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a flowmeter for regulating and monitoring the flow of sealing fluid to be conducted to a seal of a rotating shaft, the meter including a sealing fluid metering channel, a sealing fluid inlet, and a connection towards the seal for regulating the flow of sealing fluid, a non-return valve for preventing the sealing fluid from flowing back to the flowmeter, a regulating and monitoring mechanism, whereby the sealing fluid flows through the opening, and a cleaning mechanism, which is movable by an actuator. The non-return valve is arranged as an extension of the metering channel at the meter outlet side end, coaxially with the metering channel, whereby the metering cone is in mechanical contact with the non-return valve, and thus it is also possible to clean the non-return valve with the cleaning mechanism.