A new class of high performance valves is proposed which has neglible accoustic emissions below 25 Khz under extremely adverse operating conditions, E.G. flow rates of 16,000 (LBS/SEC)/SQ-IN, temperatures of 1600 F and pressures of 1000 PSI. In additioin, the accoustic emissions above 25 Khz are very low, being less than 40 dB Re 10*E-12 watt and showing no spectra peaks, I.I. the acoustic signature is very uniform and of lwo intensity. Under less adverse operating conditions. The valve will be even quieter. The valve is able to respond from fully open to fully closed in less than 0.1 second and is continuously adjustable at all intermediate flow settings. Because of its design it exhibits very good erosion resistance with ordinary valve materials, making it very cost effetive from both materials and fabrication standpoints. The valve is compact and lightweight. Several alternative designs are proposed. Fabrication and test plans are proposed and commercial applications beyond steam-throttling are descussed, including chemical processing, Hydraulic control systems, and engine components.
Keywords: VALVE QUIET STEAM NOISE EROSION THROTTLING PRESSURE-REDUCTION
