Selection of the geometric shape of the flow path of a remotely controlled valve to minimize its acoustic radiated power of turbulent noise and hydraulic resistance

The article investigates the acoustic power radiation of an isotropic turbulent flow of superheated steam in the flow path of an angle shut-off valve through numerical simulation. The study aims to determine the geometric dimensions of the valve's flow path that minimize the acoustic radiation power into the connected pipeline mains for a given medium velocity in the inlet pipe. Certain parameters of the valve's flow path are subject to design constraints, dictated by the existing component base (bellows with limitations on maximum allowable pressure and compression) and requirements for minimal valve dimensions (particularly the actuator, whose size is determined by the seat diameter). As part of the study, the effectiveness of various measures to modify the base valve design was evaluated through detailed numerical hydrodynamic and acoustic modeling. These measures, aimed at reducing the acoustic power of the flow in the valve, were analyzed both individually and in combination. The authors found that the most effective measures were: changing the lift height of the valve plug and modifying the radial dimensions of the annular cavity between the plug and the bushing. The calculated effectiveness of these measures reaches up to 11 dB. The obtained results are recommended for use in the refinement of shut-off valves in pneumatic and hydraulic systems to reduce the noise they generate.