Bond Graph Modeling of a Two-Stage Pressure Relief Valve

Abstract

This study examined the use of bond graphs for the modeling and simulation of a fluid power system component. A new method is presented for creating the bond graph model, based upon a previously developed mathematical model. A nonlinear dynamic bond graph model for a two-stage pressure relief valve has been developed in this paper. Bond graph submodels were constructed considering each element of the studied valve assembly. The overall bond graph model of the valve was developed by combining these submodels using junction structures. Causality was then assigned in order to obtain a computational model, which could be simulated. The simulation results of the causal bond graph model were compared with those of a mathematical model, which had been also developed in this paper based on the same assumptions. The results were found to correlate very well both in the shape of the curves, magnitude, and response times. The causal bond graph model was verified experimentally in the dynamic mode of operation. As a result of comparison, bond graphs can quickly and accurately model the dynamics in a fluid power control system component. During the simulation study, it was found that nonlinearity occur due to three factors: changes in pressure, which cause nonlinear velocity changes of the flow rate; changes in the throttling area of the valve restriction, which usually changes nonlinearly; and changes in the discharge coefficient of the throttling area of the valve restriction, which does not remain constant.