Numerical Simulation and Structure Optimization of the Minimum Flow Valve

Based on three-dimensional numerical simulation results, the minimum flow valve is studied under different opening level. The flow inside the valve was controlled by the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes equations together with the continuity equation. The RNG k-epsilon turbulence model was selected to govern the turbulence characteristics. Pressure and velocity distributions in the flow fields were obtained and analyzed under every opening level. The varia- tion curves of the loss coefficient and the flow rate along with the opening level were obtained to study the valve per- formance. The location where the major pressure loss happening was found by analyzing the pressure distribution. Then, the improvement method was proposed. The results of the valve with the new structure show that the pressure loss is decreased and the impaction of the fluid to the valve is alleviated.