Analysis of cavitation flow in conical throttle valve with different cone angle

Abstract

Cavitation is a common phenomenon in industrial control valves, which has a strong influence on the internal flow. Herein, characteristics of cavitation flow inside conical throttle valve have been numerically analysed using a two-phase mixture model via computational fluid dynamics software firstly. The accuracy of the numerical model is proven by comparing the numerical results with the experimental data recorded by high-speed camera. Then, the development of cavitation and the relationship between cavitation, pressure and velocity have also been discussed. The effects of cone angle on the flow and cavitation characteristics have been investigated in detail. The results reveal that under different cone angle conditions, cavitation process and flow field physical parameters are similar. The highest velocity and lowest pressure of the oil is located at the orifice, which is the main area cavitation occurs. Meanwhile, with decreasing cone angle valve, the range of low pressure increases gradually also the highest velocity. It is concluded from the results that the decreasing cone angle will be beneficial for the anti-cavitation and anti-erosion of throttle valve. The authors' conclusions could provide theoretical help for designing high-performance hydraulic valves.