Pressure Balancing Globe Valve with Dual-Stage Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional globe valves experience pressure lock issues when dealing with highly pressurized fluids, requiring excessive force to open due to fluid pressure buildup, and existing solutions like equalizing pipes and relief valves complicate the process and increase installation complexity.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with first and second valve elements and seats, where the first valve element disengages from its seat to equalize pressure before the second valve element is opened, allowing fluid flow through a dual path system, reducing the force needed to open the valve and enabling a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single valve element is used in a conventional globe valve, then the structure is simple, but the valve becomes stuck in the closed position under high pressure due to pressure lock
Solution Approach 1:
The single valve element is divided into two separate valve elements (first and second valve elements), each engaging with its own valve seat. This segmentation allows the first valve element to open first and equalize pressure before the second valve element opens, preventing pressure lock while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If equalizing pipes and relief valves are used to overcome pressure lock, then the valve can open under high pressure, but the installation complexity increases and more space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure equalization function is merged into the valve body structure itself through the first flow path and first valve element, eliminating the need for separate equalizing pipes and relief valves. The first valve element acts as both a sealing element and a pressure equalization mechanism, reducing installation complexity and space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The first valve element serves as an intermediary mechanism that mediates the pressure differential across the valve. By opening first and allowing fluid to flow through the first flow path, it mediates the pressure equalization process that enables the second valve element to subsequently open without excessive force.
3Force
If the first valve element has a smaller upstream surface area, then less force is needed to disengage it, but the flow capacity through the first flow path is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is segmented into two stages: the first flow path through the first valve element handles the initial pressure equalization with reduced flow capacity, while the second flow path through the second valve element provides the main flow capacity. This segmentation allows optimization of each stage for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The first valve element performs the preliminary action of pressure equalization before the main flow is established. Its smaller size is appropriate for this preliminary function, while the second valve element with larger surface area handles the main flow capacity requirement.
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 the valve to open without excessive force even under high pressure, simplifying the opening process and reducing installation complexity by equalizing pressure and providing a compact solution.
Implementation Method 1
initially the first valve element disengages from the first valve seat to permit fluid flow through the first flow path in order to equalise upstream and downstream pressure on the second valve element
Implementation Method 2
further operation of the actuator disengages the second valve element from the second valve seat to permit fluid flow through the second flow path
Implementation Method 3
pressure of the fluid biases the valve towards the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly includes a valve body with an upstream inlet, a downstream outlet, and first and second valve elements located between them and engageable with and disengageable from first and second valve seats, respectively. The first valve seat has a diameter which is less than that of the second valve seat. An actuator is operable to engage and disengage the valve elements with the valve seats to close and open the valve assembly. The assembly is configured to provide a first flow path from the inlet to the outlet when the first valve element is disengaged from the first valve seat and to provide a second flow path from the inlet to the outlet when the second valve element is disengaged from the second valve seat. Upon operation of the actuator to open the valve, initially the first valve element disengages from the first valve seat to permit fluid flow through the first flow path in order to equalize upstream and downstream pressure on the second valve element. Further operation of the actuator disengages the second valve element from the second valve seat to permit fluid flow through the second flow path.