Split Venturi, Axially-Rotated Valve

Patent · Tue Aug 29 00:00:00 EDT 2000

OSTI ID:879450

Walrath, David E ^[1]; Lindberg, William R ^[1]; Burgess, Robert K ^[2]

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1. Laramie, WY
2. Sheridan, WY

The present invention provides an axially-rotated valve which permits increased flow rates and lower pressure drop (characterized by a lower loss coefficient) by using an axial eccentric split venturi with two portions where at least one portion is rotatable with respect to the other portion. The axially-rotated valve typically may be designed to avoid flow separation and/or cavitation at full flow under a variety of conditions. Similarly, the valve is designed, in some embodiments, to produce streamlined flow within the valve. A typical cross section of the eccentric split venturi may be non-axisymmetric such as a semicircular cross section which may assist in both throttling capabilities and in maximum flow capacity using the design of the present invention. Such a design can include applications for freeze resistant axially-rotated valves and may be fully-opened and fully-closed in one-half of a complete rotation. An internal wide radius elbow typically connected to a rotatable portion of the eccentric venturi may assist in directing flow with lower friction losses. A valve actuator may actuate in an axial manner yet be uniquely located outside of the axial flow path to further reduce friction losses. A seal may be used between the two portions that may include a peripheral and diametrical seal in the same plane.

• Research Organization: Univ. of Wyoming, Laramie, WY (US)
• DOE Contract Number: FC02-91ER75680
• Assignee: Big Horn Valve, Inc. (Sheridan, WY)
• Patent Number(s): US 6109293
• Application Number: 08/925535
• OSTI ID: 879450
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English