Pressure Relief Module with Orthogonal Flow Chambers
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Solution Overview
Problem
In pressurized liquid flow systems, such as those in automotive paint finishing facilities, existing pressure relief mechanisms like rupture discs require replacement and involve additional cleaning processes, leading to inefficiencies and potential safety hazards when pressure exceeds safe limits.
Innovation Solution
A pressure relief module with orthogonally arranged flow chambers and a valve mechanism that diverts excess pressurized fluid from the supply pipeline directly into the tank return pipeline, eliminating the need for separate relief pipelines and reducing downtime by sealing the orifice with a biased valve member that opens when pressure exceeds a threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rupture discs are used to provide pressure relief, then pressure management is achieved, but the discs need to be replaced after each failure and require separate run-off pipeline cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure relief valve automatically performs pressure relief operations without external intervention. When pressure exceeds the threshold, the valve member opens to divert flow, and automatically closes when pressure normalizes, eliminating the need for manual replacement or cleaning operations
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding rupture discs after failure, the system recovers and reuses the same pressure relief valve repeatedly. The valve member can open and close multiple times without replacement, transforming a single-use component into a reusable one
2Reliability
If rupture discs divert paint into a run-off pipeline, then pressure relief is achieved, but the run-off pipeline must be cleaned after use to prevent paint aggregation
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure relief valve merges the pressure relief function with the existing return pipeline system. Excess paint is diverted directly into the return pipeline that already handles paint circulation, eliminating the need for a separate run-off pipeline and its associated cleaning requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The return pipeline serves dual functions: normal paint return during operation and pressure relief diversion when needed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated pressure relief infrastructure
3Reliability
If a pressure relief mechanism is installed, then equipment damage is prevented, but system complexity increases with additional components and pipelines
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure relief valve is integrated into the existing supply and return pipeline structure. The valve body connects to both pipelines, and the flow chambers utilize the existing pipeline interfaces, merging the pressure relief function into the existing system architecture rather than adding separate infrastructure
4Volume of moving object
If orthogonally arranged flow chambers are used, then housing compactness is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase for the common separating wall
Solution Approach 1:
The orthogonal arrangement creates an asymmetric configuration where the common separating wall is positioned at right angles to the main flow paths. This asymmetric geometry allows the orifice to be located at a specific corner position that is easier to manufacture and inspect compared to symmetric arrangements
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
This solution provides a compact, efficient pressure relief mechanism that minimizes downtime and eliminates the need for replaceable rupture discs, as it diverts excess pressure directly into the tank return pipeline, reducing the risk of equipment damage and simplifying post-fault cleanup.
Implementation Method 1
a valve member biased against the orifice, seals the orifice in normal operating conditions
Implementation Method 2
arranged to open the valve (the valve member moves away from the orifice) when the pressure of the supply fluid flow exceeds a threshold value
Data Source
AI summary
A paint circulating system 10 and a pressure relief module 40 utilized therein are described. The paint circulating system 10 comprises a pressurized paint supply pipeline 22, a tank return pipeline 34 and a pressure relief module 40. The pressure relief module 40 comprises: a first flow chamber 65 through which pressurized paint is provided to said supply pipeline 22; a second flow chamber 69 through which paint returns to said tank return pipeline 34; an orifice 42 interconnecting said first and second flow chambers; and a valve member 46 biased towards the orifice so as to block said orifice. The valve member 46 is moveable in response to a pressure in said first flow chamber 65 exceeding a predetermined relief pressure so as to displace said valve member 46 to open said orifice 42. This allows paint to flow from said first flow chamber 65 into said second flow chamber 69, preventing failure occurring in the paint circulating system 10.