Analysis of fluid flow through a bidirectional cone throttle valve using computational fluid dynamics

Abstract

ABSTRACT Hydraulic throttle valve is generally used to change the flow rate of oil in a hydraulic system. There are also other applications. In this paper, a geometry model of a bidirectional cone throttle valve is established. The flow pattern and flow characteristics of a bidirectional throttle valve using computational fluid dynamics are investigated with the increasing of the differential pressure under different valve openings. Fluid passing through the cone throttle valve from two different directions is analysed and the discrepancy is observed for the forward flow and reverse flow. The pressure distribution and velocity contour are derived using Fluent software. Then the cause of the discrepancy is explained based on the flow information obtained. In the end, the bidirectional throttle valve with different cone angle is analysed, validating that the results obtained are appropriate just for bidirectional cone throttle valve with small cone angles. This study is beneficial for engineers who want to exert precise control under special applications and learn the characteristics of a bidirectional throttle cone valve in detail.