Numerical Analysis of Fluid Stream Division to Supply Multiple Hydraulic Receivers

Abstract

This article presents a proposal and a numerical analysis of a hydraulic system consisting of one constant capacity pump supplying multiple receivers in the form of hydraulic motors, based on the example of a rail grinder. The proposed approach requires splitting the stream of the working fluid, which was achieved using 2-way flow control valves. As part of the preliminary CFD studies, the pressure and velocity distributions of the flow control valve were obtained, and the discharge coefficient of the valve nozzles was determined as a function of the valve spool position. Then, a mathematical model of the system was formulated, which was used to build a simulation model in the Matlab/Simulink environment. Next, the ability of the system to achieve the assumed operating parameters and its energy efficiency in a given load range were tested. The results indicate that the system can effectively perform the required work cycles with sufficient accuracy.