Integrated Equalization Valve for Pressure-Balanced Gate Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping systems face challenges with flow valves, such as gate valves, when large pressure differentials are present, leading to difficulty in operation and potential damage, and the external equalization valve is vulnerable to damage and requires separate operation, making the process time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
An integrated equalization valve with a gate and actuation stem that defines equalization channels and pathways, allowing for pressure equalization across the valve assembly before operation, and an actuation stem that moves between positions to block or unblock these pathways for gas and fluid flow, enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an external equalization valve is provided, then pressure equalization can be achieved, but the equalization valve is vulnerable to damage during transportation and operation
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization valve is integrated into the flow valve body, combining two previously separate components into one unified structure. The equalization valve shares the same robust housing and mounting infrastructure as the flow valve, eliminating the vulnerability of separate external equalization valves while maintaining pressure equalization functionality through integrated equalization ports and channels within the valve body
2Reliability
If an external equalization valve is used, then pressure equalization is possible, but separate operation adds time and complexity to the process
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization valve and flow valve are merged into a single integrated unit with a common actuation mechanism. The actuator can selectively operate either the flow valve or the equalization valve or both simultaneously, allowing pressure equalization and flow control to be performed in a single coordinated operation rather than as separate steps, thereby reducing operational time and simplifying the control process
3Reliability
If an external equalization valve is provided, then pressure equalization can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization valve is integrated into the flow valve body, combining two previously separate components into one unified structure. The equalization valve shares the same housing, mounting infrastructure, and actuation mechanism as the flow valve, reducing the total number of separate components and simplifying installation and maintenance while maintaining pressure equalization functionality through integrated equalization ports and channels within the valve body
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 integrated equalization valve effectively reduces the risk of damage and simplifies the operation of flow valves by equalizing pressure, ensuring safe and efficient operation across varying pressure conditions.
Implementation Method 1
An equalization valve may be provided to assist in equalizing the pressure across the flow valve prior to operation of the flow valve
Data Source
AI summary
An equalization valve includes a valve body defining an inlet body, an outlet body, and a gate slot, the inlet body defining an inlet passage and the outlet body defining an outlet passage; a gate defining an equalization chamber, a first equalization channel, and a second equalization channel, the equalization chamber and the first and second equalization channels defining an equalization pathway across the gate; and an actuation stem slidable within the equalization chamber between a first chamber position, wherein the actuation stem blocks the equalization pathway, and a second chamber position, wherein the actuation stem unblocks the equalization pathway; wherein the actuation stem is further slidable within the gate slot of the valve body between a first valve position, wherein the gate is seated with the valve body, and a second valve position, wherein the gate is unseated from the valve body.