Pressure Regulator Sense Tube Flow Modifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas regulators face challenges in maintaining consistent outlet pressure due to fluctuations caused by varying flow path geometries, leading to pressure spikes that exceed accuracy class ratings, forcing them to be rated at lower capacities.
Innovation Solution
A fluid regulating device with a sense tube featuring a flared portion and adjustable length, which creates an artificial low-pressure zone and disrupts the flow path to maintain uniform pressure, preventing premature boosting or drooping of outlet pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional sense tube is used to sense outlet pressure, then the regulator can control outlet pressure, but pressure spikes occur that exceed accuracy class ratings
Solution Approach 1:
A flow modifier is introduced as an intermediary component between the sense tube and the outlet. This flow modifier creates an artificial low-pressure zone that mediates the pressure sensing, preventing direct sensing of pressure spikes while still providing accurate outlet pressure control to the regulator mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow modifier creates a localized low-pressure zone at its downstream end, where the sense tube is positioned. This local modification of pressure characteristics allows the sense tube to measure a stabilized pressure representative of outlet pressure without being directly exposed to pressure spikes and fluctuations in the main flow path.
2Measurement precision
If the regulator is rated at lower capacity to avoid pressure spikes, then pressure control accuracy is maintained, but the regulator capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flow modifier serves as a mediator that decouples the pressure sensing function from the main high-capacity flow path. By positioning the sense tube downstream of the flow modifier where pressure is stabilized, the regulator can handle higher flow capacities while the sensing mechanism continues to operate within accurate pressure ranges, preventing false pressure spike readings.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow modifier changes the pressure parameter in the local zone where the sense tube operates. By creating an artificial low-pressure zone with reduced pressure fluctuations, the system allows the regulator to operate at higher capacities while maintaining accurate pressure control readings through the modified local pressure conditions.
3Measurement precision
If the sense tube extends into the outlet to sense pressure, then outlet pressure can be monitored, but flow path geometry variations cause pressure fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The flow modifier acts as an intermediary that stabilizes the flow path geometry effects before the pressure reaches the sense tube. By positioning the sense tube downstream of this flow stabilization element, the system monitors outlet pressure while filtering out fluctuations caused by varying flow path geometries, achieving both accurate sensing and pressure consistency.
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
The solution enhances the capacity of the regulator by maintaining accurate pressure control within the specified accuracy class, allowing for increased flow without exceeding rated limits, regardless of flow conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A flow modifier is disposed in the flow path adjacent the intermediate portion of the sense tube, and a flared portion is disposed in the flow path adjacent the second end and downstream of the flow modifier
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A fluid regulating device includes a valve body having an inlet, an outlet, a valve port, and a control element shiftable within the valve body. A control assembly includes an actuator coupled to the control element and includes a diaphragm disposed adjacent a diaphragm chamber. A sense tube has a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion, the first end positioned to communicate with the diaphragm chamber, the second end disposed adjacent the outlet, and the intermediate portion disposed adjacent an intermediate portion of the outlet. The sense tube includes a shoulder and a flared portion, with the flared portion disposed adjacent the second end.