Indexable Multi-Orifice Flow Control for On-Site Purge Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control devices in pressure swing applications, particularly in the air and gas industry, face challenges in adjusting purge flow rates due to fixed orifice sizes, which are not easily changeable on-site, leading to inefficiencies under varying conditions such as pressure, temperature, and gas quality changes.
Innovation Solution
A flow control device with multiple orifices of varying diameters, allowing for selective control of fluid flow rates, where a second orifice can be positioned and locked over a chosen first orifice, and the device can be easily interchanged, reducing the need for precise alignment and accuracy during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed orifice valve is used, then the device is cost effective and reliable, but the orifice size cannot be easily changed on-site when process conditions vary
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device is segmented into multiple discrete orifices of different sizes, each providing a specific flow rate. Instead of a single adjustable mechanism, the system divides the flow control function into multiple fixed options, allowing selection by simply changing which orifice is active.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static fixed orifice to a dynamic multi-orifice configuration. The ability to switch between different orifices provides adaptability to changing process conditions while maintaining the simplicity of fixed orifice design for each individual opening.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a variable area control valve is used, then the flow rate can be adjusted, but the device becomes expensive and requires flow meters and fine adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The device changes the flow rate parameter by selecting different discrete orifice sizes rather than continuously adjusting a single orifice. Each orifice is pre-calibrated to provide a specific flow rate, eliminating the need for flow meters and fine adjustment mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple orifices are provided, then flow rate selectability is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device achieves multi-functionality by incorporating multiple orifices of different sizes within a single valve body. Each orifice serves as a独立的 flow control option, allowing the device to handle various flow rate requirements without needing multiple separate valves.
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
Enables precise and easy adjustment of flow rates on-site, improving operational efficiency and adaptability to changing conditions without requiring expensive variable area valves or flow meters, while preventing backflow and ensuring fluid tightness.
Implementation Method 1
each provide a fixed specific fluid flow rate for any predetermined pressure loss across the orifice
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An adjustable flow control device is provided which has a valve body containing a series of orifices of varying diameter and an indexable valve cover which includes at least one flow conduit which can be positioned and locked in a sealable manner over a chosen orifice whilst the remaining part of the valve cover closes off the other orifices of the valve body. Due to the device having fixed size orifices, each orifice will provide a fixed specific fluid flow rate for any predetermined pressure loss across the orifice. The device is suitable for use on all types of gas and liquid fluids.