How Does Opening a Valve Affect the Force Due to Fluid Pressure?

In summary: If so, why?In summary, the valve is subjected to a force which is determined by the STATIC pressure and the TOTAL pressure, including the kinetic part of the fluid motion.
  • #1
KingBongo
23
0
I have been thinking about this a lot. It is about conservation of energy. A simplified analysis using Bernoulli's Principle for one-dimensional incompressible liquid fluids should be good enough to gain some understanding (at least for me). Let us also neglect gravitational effects.

Assume you have a pressurized pipe filled with liquid plugged by a spring loaded valve at one end. What is the (fluid) force on the valve?

I understand that when the valve is CLOSED the force would simply be F = P*A, where P is the STATIC pressure and A is the Area on the valve. But what if you OPEN the valve a little so that liquid begins to flow? Is the force on the valve determined by the STATIC pressure only, or is it determined by the TOTAL pressure, i.e. including the kinetic part of the fluid motion?

What is the Force? Please help.
 
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  • #2
Make sure you state exactly what you know from the problem. A problem like this can be solved many ways if you know most of the information, but a homework problem usually gives you the bare minimum and can only be solved one way.
If fluid is flowing through a control volume, a valve for example, the net resultant force on the valve is equal to the difference in momentum rates (mass flow rate times velocity) between the inflow and the outflow.
 
  • #3
genghiskron:
Thank you! Well, I am actually not a student. I am a Doctor in control engineering. But this flowing liquidsthing is killing me. No wonder, since I only took a basic course like forever ago, :) Is it thermodynamics we are talking about here?

Are there any good books I could read about this? A little bit more advanced would be just fine.

Further questions:
I suspect the "momentum rates approach" can only be used if the valve is open, because else there would be no flow at all. Is it so?
 

FAQ: How Does Opening a Valve Affect the Force Due to Fluid Pressure?

What is a force on spring loaded valve?

A force on spring loaded valve is a type of valve that uses a spring to regulate the flow of a fluid or gas. The force on the spring determines how much the valve opens or closes, controlling the flow rate.

How does a force on spring loaded valve work?

A force on spring loaded valve works by using the force of a spring to balance the pressure of the fluid or gas trying to pass through the valve. When the force of the fluid or gas is stronger than the force of the spring, the valve opens. When the force of the spring is stronger, the valve closes.

What factors affect the force on a spring loaded valve?

The force on a spring loaded valve can be affected by several factors, including the type and strength of the spring, the pressure and flow rate of the fluid or gas, and the design and materials of the valve. Additionally, external factors such as temperature and vibration can also impact the force on the valve.

How is the force on a spring loaded valve measured?

The force on a spring loaded valve is typically measured using a force gauge or load cell. These devices can accurately measure the amount of force being applied to the valve, providing important data for calibration and troubleshooting.

What are the advantages of using a force on spring loaded valve?

There are several advantages to using a force on spring loaded valve, including precise flow control, high reliability, and low maintenance. They are also relatively simple and cost-effective compared to other types of valves, making them a popular choice in many industries.

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