Recessed-Seat Gate Valve for Centered Throttling Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional gate valves are not suitable for throttling applications due to undesirable flow characteristics, which can lead to flow decentralization and potential damage to downstream pipes from abrasive materials, despite the use of inserts with various shapes to centralize flow.
Innovation Solution
A gate valve design featuring a valve body with a seat plate having a recessed face in the upstream direction, narrower than the bore width, and a lip defining an opening, which reduces flow deflection by allowing the gate to move into an extended position against the recessed face, obstructing the opening, and includes a guide for the gate to move between extended and retracted positions, minimizing flow disruption and erosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional gate valve design is used with a planar insert, then the valve structure is simple, but the flow centralization is insufficient causing erosion of downstream pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The seat plate is designed with a recessed portion that creates a three-dimensional flow path modification. This recessed geometry, extending partially into the bore, adds a dimensional element to the flow control mechanism that redirects flow centrally and reduces erosion without requiring complex external structures
Solution Approach 2:
The seat plate is segmented into different functional zones: a recessed portion for flow centralization and redirection, and a non-recessed portion for structural support and sealing. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall structural integrity
2Ease of operation
If the gate is moved to partially obstruct the opening for throttling, then flow control is achieved, but flow decentralization occurs causing potential damage to downstream pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed seat plate is pre-configured to establish a centralized flow path before the gate begins to obstruct the opening. This preliminary flow conditioning ensures that as the gate moves to create throttling, the flow remains centered and directed away from pipe walls, preventing erosion even during partial obstruction
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed portion of the seat plate creates localized flow modification in the critical area where flow separation would normally occur. This localized geometric feature ensures that the flow remains centralized and controlled specifically in the regions most susceptible to erosion, while the rest of the valve structure maintains its standard configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A gate valve having a seat plate with a recessed face smaller in width than a bore of the valve. The recessed face includes an opening, which can be generally rectangular for use of the valve as a substantially linear control valve. The valve closes by movement of the gate along the recessed face to obstruct the opening, and opens by the reverse movement.