Variable Angle Orifice for Coal Conduit Flow Regulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable orifices for conduits conveying particulate materials like pulverized coal or metal ore lack efficient regulation mechanisms, particularly in achieving balanced flow across multiple conduits to control combustion processes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A variable angle orifice design featuring semi-circular plates with concentric shafts and an actuator system that allows coordinated angular movement between fully extended and folded positions, enabling multiple intermediate restrictions, along with a position indicator and mounting mechanism for secure installation within conduits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If gate type valves with blade structure are used to regulate flow, then flow regulation capability is achieved, but device complexity and susceptibility to abrasion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is divided into two separate semi-circular plates that can be independently positioned and adjusted, allowing each plate to be optimized for its specific function while reducing overall structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The plates are designed to be rotatable within the conduit, enabling dynamic adjustment of flow restriction from fully open to fully closed positions, providing continuous flow regulation capability without complex mechanical linkages
2Ease of operation
If traditional variable orifices are used in conduits conveying particulate material, then flow control is achieved, but abrasion resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having the valve blades extend into the flow path (traditional approach), the plates are positioned to create flow restriction by their angular orientation, with the bulk of the plate structure remaining outside the direct particulate flow path, thereby protecting the valve from abrasion while maintaining flow control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The valve utilizes angular parameter adjustment of the plates to control flow, where the rotation angle of each plate determines the degree of flow restriction, providing precise flow control through simple angular positioning rather than complex mechanical adjustments
3Measurement precision
If variable angle blades are used for flow regulation, then flow control precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The valve employs two separate semi-circular plates instead of a single blade, allowing independent adjustment of each plate to achieve precise flow control. This partial action approach enables fine-tuned flow regulation by adjusting each plate to the required position without the complexity of single-blade variable angle mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A variable orifice for use in connection with a conduit designed to convey particulate material comprising a set of semi-circular plates mounted on respective concentric shafts so that they may be rotated in opposite directions between a first position in which they extend across the interior of the conduit for maximum flow resistance to a second folded condition where they are adjacent and parallel to one another to present minimum flow resistance. An actuator is connected through the concentric shafts to the plates and mounts on the outside of the conduit surface. The unit is operated by hand crank and has a position indicator. The size of the valve plates is such that, even when fully extended relative to one another and lying across the cross-section of the conduit, only about a 30% restriction is produced.