Integrated Temperature-Control Valve Assembly for Cavitation Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid pressure reduction devices in process control systems often lead to cavitation or solidification of viscous fluids during pressure reduction, and their manufacturing processes are time-consuming and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with integrated temperature control is manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques, featuring an annular plenum that changes the temperature of the process fluid, preventing cavitation and solidification by reducing vapor pressure through cooling or heating, and is designed to be more efficient and cost-effective.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fabrication processes are used to manufacture flow reduction devices, then the devices can prevent cavitation or solidification, but the manufacturing process is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temperature control function directly into the valve body by integrating cooling channels and heating elements within the valve structure itself, eliminating the need for separate external temperature control devices. This integration maintains the ability to prevent cavitation and solidification while simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: pressure reduction through the trim and flow control, and temperature control through integrated heating and cooling capabilities. This multi-functionality allows a single device to prevent both cavitation and solidification without requiring separate specialized components.
2Stress or pressure
If pressure reduction is applied to process fluid, then the pressure is reduced, but cavitation occurs in the fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary heating to the process fluid before it reaches the pressure reduction zone. By pre-heating the fluid, the vapor pressure is reduced relative to the absolute pressure, creating a margin that prevents cavitation during the subsequent pressure drop. This preliminary temperature adjustment ensures cavitation-free operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the process fluid to control its vapor pressure. By adjusting the fluid temperature through integrated heating and cooling elements, the vapor pressure is modified to remain below the absolute pressure throughout the pressure reduction process, thereby preventing cavitation.
3Stress or pressure
If pressure reduction is applied to viscous fluid, then the pressure is reduced, but solidification occurs in the fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary heating to viscous process fluids before pressure reduction. This pre-heating prevents the temperature from dropping to the freezing point during pressure reduction, thereby preventing solidification while maintaining the pressure reduction function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of viscous fluids to prevent solidification during pressure reduction. By maintaining the fluid temperature above the freezing point through integrated heating elements, the fluid remains in liquid state throughout the pressure reduction process.
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 effectively reduces fluid pressure while preventing cavitation and solidification, enhancing the efficiency and reducing the manufacturing costs of fluid pressure reduction devices in process control systems.
Implementation Method 1
The annular plenum is positioned immediately adjacent a portion of the fluid flow path so that the annular plenum changes a temperature of the process fluid flowing through the portion of the fluid flow path from the first temperature to a second temperature that is different from the first temperature
Implementation Method 2
The inlet passage is integrally formed in the valve body or the bonnet and directs the media from the inlet port to the annular plenum
Data Source
AI summary
A valve control assembly includes a valve body having an inlet adapted to be coupled to a source of process fluid having a first temperature, an outlet, and a fluid flow path extending between the inlet and the outlet, and a bonnet coupled to the valve body. An inlet port, an outlet port, an annular plenum, an inlet passage, and an outlet passage are integrally formed in the valve body or the bonnet. The inlet port is adapted to be coupled to source of media and the annular plenum is disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port, immediately adjacent a portion of the fluid flow path. The inlet passage directs the media from the inlet port to the annular plenum, which changes a temperature of the process fluid flowing through the fluid flow path from the first temperature to a second temperature different from the first temperature.