Multi-way Valve Electromagnetic Actuation for Gas Turbine Fluid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-way valves for gas turbines face issues with significant torque application and wear due to metal friction, leading to potential leaks and the need for manual operation to maintain a continuous seal, which complicates the management of fluid passages for different combustion modes and purge operations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-way valve design featuring a rotating actuator with a smaller cross-section than the housing cavity, equipped with projecting elements such as cams to open sealing means, and a torque generator for reduced friction and automated operation, allowing for precise control of fluid flow between multiple ports and incorporating a cooling fluid cavity for temperature management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating mechanism with two concentric cylinders is used to enable selective feeding of fluids, then multi-way fluid control is achieved, but metal friction between cylinders causes significant torque and quick wearing leading to leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical rotating valve mechanism with an electromagnetic valve system. The electromagnetic valve uses a solenoid actuator to open and close fluid passages electronically, eliminating metal-to-metal friction and contact wear between rotating parts. This substitution of mechanical rotation with electromagnetic actuation resolves the contradiction by maintaining multi-way fluid control capability while eliminating the friction-induced torque and wear that cause leaks.
2Force
If deformable sleeves are used to prevent friction between housing and actuator, then friction is reduced, but significant torque is still required to overcome friction and manual operation is needed to maintain continuous seal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical deformable sleeve sealing system with an electromagnetic valve actuation system. Instead of relying on manual operation to maintain seals through deformable sleeves, the system uses electromagnetic solenoids to automatically open and close valve ports. This eliminates the need for manual intervention while further reducing friction through non-contact electromagnetic actuation, resolving the contradiction between friction reduction and ease of operation.
3Productivity
If distribution valve is placed close to combustion chamber to reduce residual liquid fuel volume, then power output step is avoided, but valve is exposed to high temperatures and harsh conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the electromagnetic valve close to the combustion chamber to minimize residual fuel volume and prevent power output steps, while the electromagnetic actuation system's lack of friction and contact wear enables it to withstand the harsh thermal and chemical environment better than traditional mechanical rotating valves. The electronic control system can also respond more quickly to temperature and pressure changes, maintaining stable power output despite the harsh conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-way valve includes an outer casing provided with an internal cavity, at least one input to the cavity, at least one output from the cavity, the at least one input having sealing means, and an actuator adapted to cause the opening of the sealing means of the inputs. A cross-section of the actuator is smaller than a cross-section of the inner cavity.