Kinetic Hinge Structure for Low-Resistance Rupture Disk Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rupture disk hinges obstruct fluid flow, increasing flow resistance and reducing the efficiency of pressure relief in systems, especially when used with lined rupture disks.
Innovation Solution
A kinetic hinge with a pre-weakened root area, designed to deform and absorb kinetic energy, allowing the rupture disk petal to open fully and reducing obstruction, is introduced. This hinge is created through processes like laser cutting or EDM, and is configured to interact with the rupture disk petal to minimize fragmentation and enhance flow characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional static hinge is used to control rupture disk opening, then fragmentation is managed, but flow resistance increases and pressure relief efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one that actively moves during operation. The kinetic hinge is initially positioned to control the rupture disk opening and prevent fragmentation, then automatically moves outward upon activation to reduce flow resistance and improve pressure relief efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge is pre-positioned in a controlled location that optimizes fragmentation management during normal operation. Upon activation, the pre-positioned hinge automatically moves to a second position that reduces flow resistance, preparing the system for efficient pressure relief before the actual venting occurs.
2Productivity
If a kinetic hinge is designed to move and absorb kinetic energy, then flow resistance is reduced and opening quality improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The kinetic hinge utilizes a flexible, thin-walled structure that can deform and move easily in response to pressure changes. This flexibility allows the hinge to transition between positions without requiring complex mechanical actuators, motors, or linkages, thereby maintaining simplicity while achieving the desired dynamic behavior.
Solution Approach 2:
The kinetic hinge is designed to automatically move and absorb kinetic energy through its own structural properties rather than requiring external control systems. The hinge uses the force from the rupture disk activation itself to drive its movement, eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
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 kinetic hinge significantly reduces flow resistance (Krg) compared to static hinges, improving the opening quality of rupture disks and managing fragmentation, as demonstrated by ASME PTC25 performance testing, with observed reductions in flow resistance values across various sizes.
Implementation Method 1
A kinetic hinge with a pre-weakened root area, designed to deform and absorb kinetic energy
Implementation Method 2
designed to deform and absorb kinetic energy
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a kinetic hinge for a pressure relief device, such as a rupture disk. In one embodiment, the kinetic hinge may extend from an inner periphery of a flange ring, into a central fluid flow path. The hinge may be configured to deform in response to an activation of the rupture disk, thereby allowing the hinge to move radially out of the central fluid flow path. In other embodiments, a kinetic hinge may include a retaining element, reinforcing element, stiffening element, pre-weakened area, perforation, or other features configured to control or influence the manner in which the kinetic hinge may deform.