Valve Force Generating Element for Extreme Temperature Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pilot-operated valves face challenges with extreme operating temperatures, as conventional o-rings and elastomeric materials are not compatible, leading to potential breakdown and ineffective seals due to dimensional changes in the valve structure.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a force generating element using metal-to-metal contact seals, such as spring washers, to maintain pressure and ensure consistent contact between components, accommodating for variations in temperature and mechanical changes, eliminating the need for o-rings and elastomeric devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional o-rings and elastomeric materials are used for sealing, then the valve can operate at moderate temperatures, but the seals break down and become ineffective at extreme temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the problematic elastomeric o-rings from the sealing system entirely. The pilot assembly uses metal-to-metal contact surfaces between the piston and cylinder, and between the disc and nozzle, eliminating the temperature-sensitive elastomeric materials that break down at extreme temperatures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs different materials for different functional requirements: elastomeric o-rings are used specifically for the pilot assembly sealing (where temperatures are controlled), while metal components with machined sealing surfaces handle the extreme temperature conditions in the main valve body.
2Temperature
If metal-to-metal contact seals are used to withstand extreme temperatures, then temperature compatibility improves, but manufacturing tolerances and mechanical changes disrupt contact and render seals ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a force-generating element (spring) that dynamically adjusts the contact force between metal sealing surfaces. This dynamic mechanism compensates for manufacturing tolerances and mechanical changes, ensuring consistent metal-to-metal contact despite variations in component dimensions or wear over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded force-generating element changes the contact pressure parameter, applying sufficient force to maintain reliable metal-to-metal sealing contact. This controlled parameter change ensures that sealing surfaces remain in consistent contact despite manufacturing tolerances or thermal expansion/contraction.
3Reliability
If a force generating element is added to maintain contact pressure, then seal reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force-generating element is self-regulating, using the pressure differential across the pilot assembly to automatically adjust and maintain appropriate contact force on the metal sealing surfaces. The system serves itself by using its operating conditions to generate the necessary sealing force without external control.
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 allows pilot-operated valves to operate effectively across extreme temperatures without o-rings, maintaining seal integrity and pressure consistency despite dimensional changes, enhancing durability and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a force generating element that ensures contact between components to form appropriate seals
Implementation Method 2
such as spring washers, to maintain pressure and ensure consistent contact between components
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a force generating element that can broaden the application of valves and, in particular, pilot-operated valves to include applications that have extreme operating temperatures. These improvements forgo use of o-rings (and like elastomeric devices) in lieu of more durable and robust seals (e.g., metal-to-metal contact). Rather, as discussed more below, the valves incorporate a force generating element that ensures contact between components to form appropriate seals that allow the cylinder to maintain pressure, despite dimensional changes in the structure of the valve.