Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for Evaluation of Fluid Flow Through a Gate Valve

Abstract

Abstract Gate valves are the most common valve in industrial plants. However, there is no work in the literature regarding the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to evaluate the fluid flow characteristics and pressure drop in gate valves. The present work evaluated the fluid flow and pressure drop through a commercial gate valve using CFD. The obtained values for the pressure loss coefficient (k) are in accordance to those described in the literature and a power type equation could be used for modeling it as function of the Reynolds Number. Fluid flow behavior through the gate valve highlighted the flow recirculation and stagnant areas, being critical for food and pharmaceutical products processing. The obtained results reinforce the advantages in using CFD as a tool for the engineering evaluation of fluid processes.