Lattice Valve Cage Structure for Lower Weight and Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional valve cages in fluid regulators and control valves are heavy due to their solid construction, which can compromise their structural integrity and efficiency in fluid flow control without providing adequate weight reduction.
Innovation Solution
A valve cage with a three-dimensional lattice structure is designed using additive manufacturing, featuring a cylindrical body with rings and passages, where the lattice structure is fluidly isolated and strategically positioned to reduce weight while maintaining structural integrity and controlling fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a solid construction is used for the valve cage, then structural integrity is maintained, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve cage incorporates a lattice structure with controlled porosity, creating a network of interconnected struts and voids that reduce material usage and weight while maintaining structural integrity through the geometric configuration of the lattice framework
Solution Approach 2:
The valve cage combines solid wall regions for structural support with lattice structure regions for weight reduction, creating a composite construction that optimizes the balance between strength and weight by using different structural configurations in different zones of the valve cage
2Strength
If a solid construction is used for the valve cage, then structural integrity is maintained, but fluid flow control efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve cage is segmented into solid wall portions and lattice structure portions, allowing different regions to perform different functions - solid walls provide structural support and sealing surfaces, while lattice regions provide fluid flow paths and control characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the valve cage have different structural qualities - solid walls are positioned where structural integrity and sealing are critical, while lattice structures are positioned where fluid flow control and weight reduction are priorities, creating locally optimized performance
Data Source
AI summary
A valve cage of a control valve includes a cylindrical body having a first ring, a second ring opposite the first ring, an outer wall, an inner wall, and an interior portion that extends radially between the inner wall and the outer wall and extends axially between the first ring and the second ring. A passage extends through the outer and inner walls of the cylindrical body, and is disposed between the first ring and the second ring of the cylindrical body. A three-dimensional lattice structure is disposed in the interior portion of the cylindrical body.