Two-Outlet Hydrant Flow Channel for Low Pressure Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing post hydrants face challenges in achieving high throughput due to flow resistance issues, particularly in high-pressure applications like industrial plants and airports, where the existing designs hinder undisturbed flow and result in significant pressure losses.
Innovation Solution
The hydrant design features a tapered flow channel between the two outlets with a shut-off element having a zeta value of at most 0.1 in the open position, optimized geometry for outlets with a 90-degree exit angle and a radius of curvature equal to or larger than the nominal diameter, and a flange connection between column parts to minimize flow resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional hydrant design with constant cross-section flow channel is used, then the structure is simple, but the throughput is limited due to high flow resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The flow channel cross-section is changed from constant to variable (tapered), specifically narrowing towards the outlets. This parameter change optimizes flow velocity distribution and reduces turbulence, thereby decreasing flow resistance and pressure losses while increasing throughput capability
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered flow channel design creates curved streamlines that guide flow more smoothly from the column through the outlets. The gradual convergence of the flow channel reduces abrupt flow direction changes, minimizing energy dissipation and maintaining higher throughput
2Adaptability or versatility
If the outlets are positioned at different heights, then versatility of use is improved, but flow disturbance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow channel is designed with different local characteristics for upper and lower outlets. Each outlet has its own optimized flow path and tapering section, allowing independent flow optimization while maintaining overall system performance and reducing mutual interference between outlets
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 design ensures undisturbed flow with minimal pressure losses, achieving a high Kv value of 1500 m^3/h at DN 150, reducing eddies and flow resistance, and maintaining flow without limitations up to high volume flows, primarily constrained by the supply network characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
the flow channel formed from the upper column part tapers between the two outlets
Data Source
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AI summary
The fire-hydrant has a column (1) provided with a column lower part (1.1) and a column upper part (1.2), where the lower and upper parts form a flow channel. A shut-off device (2) e.g. plug valve, is arranged at a base of the column lower part. A lower outlet is formed from the lower part. An upper outlet is formed from the upper part. The shut-off device has a zeta value of highest 0.1 in an open position. The flow channel formed from the upper part is tapered between the outlets. A design of one of the outlets describes that the flow obtains a radius of curvature (6) during deflection.