Valve Noise Attenuation Assembly With Channeled Trim
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flow control devices, such as quarter-turn valves, experience unwanted noise and vibrations due to fluid expansion, and existing noise abatement solutions are often inefficient due to large clearances and difficult assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A noise attenuation assembly is introduced, featuring a flow control body and a trim with a plurality of channels that control fluid expansion, which is securely positioned relative to the flow control body using constraint surfaces, allowing for effective noise reduction during fluid flow through the valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional flow control devices are used, then fluid flow regulation is achieved, but noise and vibrations are generated due to fluid expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The trim body is segmented into multiple channels that divide the fluid flow path. This segmentation controls fluid expansion by directing flow through separate channels, reducing the harmful noise effects while maintaining flow regulation functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating specific geometric profiles (attenuator inlet profile matching ball inlet profile) at critical locations where fluid expansion occurs. This localized geometric control addresses noise generation at the source without affecting the overall valve performance
2Object-affected harmful factors
If existing noise abatement solutions are implemented, then some noise reduction is achieved, but large clearances remain and assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The noise attenuation assembly is merged with the flow control body by securing the trim body within the fluid pathway across the flow control body. This integration eliminates large clearances between components and simplifies assembly by reducing the number of separate parts that need to be positioned and secured
Solution Approach 2:
The trim body is nested within the valve body structure, with the attenuator positioned inside the fluid pathway. This nesting arrangement minimizes clearances while maintaining accessibility for assembly and integration with the flow control body
3Object-affected harmful factors
If trim body is securely positioned relative to flow control body, then noise reduction effectiveness is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attenuator inlet profile is pre-configured to be geometrically similar to the ball inlet profile, ensuring proper alignment before final assembly. This preliminary geometric matching simplifies the assembly process by eliminating complex alignment procedures while maintaining the secure positioning needed for effective noise reduction
Data Source
AI summary
A valve, such as a ball valve, can include a noise attenuation assembly to control fluid expansion through the valve and provide noise abatement. The valve can include a valve body and a valve stem and the noise attenuation assembly can include a flow control body and a trim body. The flow control body can be coupled to the valve stem and the flow control body can be configured to selectively permit fluid flow through the valve body in an axial direction. The trim body can include a plurality of channels to control fluid expansion during fluid flow through the valve body. The trim body can be engaged with the flow control body at first and second mounting structures of the flow control body to secure the trim within a fluid pathway of the flow control body.