Adjustable Multi-Phase Flow Valve for Precise Fluid Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for managing multi-phase and multi-component flow streams, such as separating or mixing fluids, are limited in their ability to effectively control the separation or mixing process, particularly in stratified flows where precise control over fluid components is needed.
Innovation Solution
A valve with an adjustable element featuring multiple flow passages that can be linearly translated or rotatably positioned to alter the flow paths, allowing for precise control over the separation or mixing of fluid components by adjusting the position of the leading edge relative to the stratification boundary within the flow stream.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a phase separator utilizing a weir plate or foil is used to divert a portion of the flow, then fluid separation is achieved, but precise control over the flow paths and fluid component ratios is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve element is made movable rather than fixed, allowing dynamic adjustment of the flow paths. The element can be positioned at different locations within the valve body to precisely control the separation of fluid components, transforming a static separation device into a dynamically adjustable one that adapts to varying flow conditions and separation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve internally defines multiple distinct flow paths (first flow path, second flow path, third flow path) that can be independently controlled by positioning the valve element at different locations. This segmentation allows precise control over which fluid components travel through which paths, enabling ratio control that was previously unachievable with simple weir plates.
2Measurement precision
If multiple flow passages are defined in an adjustable element, then precise control over fluid separation and mixing is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single valve element performs multiple functions: it can control separation of different fluid components, adjust the ratio of components in mixed streams, and direct flow through different paths. By consolidating these functions into one adjustable component with multiple internal passages, the design achieves precise control without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple flow passages are combined within a single valve element rather than using separate valves or complex piping arrangements. This merging of flow paths into one controllable component simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining the ability to precisely control fluid distribution and mixing ratios.
3Productivity
If the adjustable element is linearly translated or rotatably positioned to alter flow paths, then separation and mixing control is improved, but the ease of operation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The valve element can be dynamically repositioned along the flow direction or rotated to change flow path configuration. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements (separation vs. mixing, different ratios) without requiring multiple fixed valves, improving overall fluid management efficiency despite the added adjustment mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-phase separation flow management apparatus has a housing with an inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet and in which a movable element is mounted. The movable element has a first passageway with an inlet and an outlet and a second passageway having an inlet and an outlet, and are disposed in the element so that the inlets of the first and second passageways are adjacent one another and the outlets of the first and second passageways are spaced apart from one another. The inlets are disposed adjacent a housing inlet, the first passageway outlet is disposed adjacent a first housing outlet and the second passageway outlet is disposed adjacent a second housing outlet.