A need exists for a rapid action valve with a minimum pressure capability of 20,000 psi and with a minimum flow passage area of 0.05 square inch for use in high pressure oxygen test systems. The approach in this project provides unique design features that reduce necessary actuation power to existing state-of-the-art rapid action electrical solenoids. These solenoids are capable of stroking the valve gate system in 3 milliseconds. The key feature of this valve that allows attaining the required operating time is an internally bearing supported gate. The project objectives will be to verify the valve design techniques that reduces the actuation power to the range of the simple high speed solenoid. Theoretical work will optimize valve component sizing including actuator power requirements. Laboratory simulations will be conducted to verify the predicted response time performance of critical features under actual load conditions. Based on Phase I research, a preliminary prototype valve design will be established for Phase II fabrication and test.
