Rotational Valve FSU

Introduction

The goal of this project is to design a gas compressor valve that opens and closes in a rotational manner. Most valves in use today operate in a linear open and closed fashion. In other words, when the desired pressure is reached in the cylinder, the valve is pushed open. When the pressure drops to the desired pressure, the valve slides back closed. This design of valve is known as a plate valve (fig.1). The plate valve is reliable and relatively inexpensive but inefficient. The gas must flow in a very indirect path both reducing flow, and adding energy in the form of heat due to restrictions. This project focuses on producing a rotational type valve that is more efficient than the currently used valves.

Product Specification

It is important that the valve has a balance of cost, reliability, and performance. If the product turns out to be more expensive than the existing valves, the pros must out weigh the cons. The desired mode of operation of this valve is a rotational manner. When the desired pressure of the gas cylinder is achieved, the valve must rotate to allow the gas to flow out. When the pressure drops, the exhaust valve must rotate shut as the intake valve rotates open. Then again, as the pressure increases, the intake valve must rotate shut. This device should be able to be used as both an intake and exhaust valve. The device should also be able to be fitted onto all or most of the gas compressor out on the field today. This product should be able to be easily installed in replace of the existing plate and poppets valves with no modification to the compressor. The entire project should fall within the budget range of two thousand dollars.

Costumer Needs

• Product must operate in a rotational manner
• Flow volume and efficiencies must out perform current designs
• The valve’s cost must be justified by its performance including efficiency, cost, and lifetime
• The product must stay in the budget range of $2000
• A working model is to be made at the end of the design process

Material Research and Selection

Two main obstacles in producing the valve is the material selection for both the valve and the seals to achieve maximum lifetime. The material in which the valve is produced from should be able to withstand high temperatures, pressures, and long exposure to natural gas. It will be important to research the materials used for current valves and alternative materials if necessary. As for the seal, since no valves currently use rotation to relieve pressure, research and trial and error must be conducted to ensure the proper seal material selection. During operation, it is important that no amount of gas is able to leak in or out of the cylinder during both the suction and compression strokes of the compressor.

Quality Function Deployment

The Quality Function Deployment matrix above shows the importance of certain engineering specifications to the customers needs. The material and design selection are amongst the most important parameters to successfully complete the project. Though not reflected, the rate of flow must also be maximized to justify the use of the rotational compressor valve in the field.