Numerical investigation of inlet-pipe configurations on fluid dynamics and flow-field characteristics inside filling valve

Abstract

The filling valve requires high efficiency and stability in the working process, which is closely related to the distribution of the flow characteristics inside the valve. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods were present to analyse the pressure, velocity, and other characteristics of the filling valve under different inlet pipe angles and valve openings. The flow characteristics, which are experimentally measured, are consistent with CFD simulation results. Research shows that the increase in the angle of the inlet pipe can improve the uniformity of the flow field inside the valve, produce a better core flow pattern at the valve outlet, and have better fluid stability. Based on the flow characteristics of the valve, to obtain good filling efficiency and stability, a moderate valve opening of 9 mm should be selected, and the flow coefficient can reach 1.08, which is 1.6 times higher than that of 3 mm, and the angle of the inlet pipe should be appropriately increased. This study provides a reference for the use and optimization of filling valves.