Development of a novel Pilot-Operated Proportional Valve

Multi-physics simulations are carried out to replicate the working conditions of a pilot-operated proportional valve, focusing on the dynamic response of the polymeric diaphragm. The problem lies in the occurrence of unwanted vibrations of the diaphragm during normal operation at low pressure, which compromises stability and performance.

By developing a dedicated numerical model capable of coupling fluid dynamics, structural mechanics, and transient effects, we systematically investigated all possible causes of the membrane vibration.

From the original model affected by diaphragm vibrations to the optimized design minimizing instability of the valve and ensuring reliable operation

Goal: Development of a numerical multi-physics model to address any possible cause to membrane vibration

Methods: CAD cleaning and repairing, finite volume analysis and computational tools

Results: Discovery of the reason why the valve is affected by vibration and development of a novel design able to reduce the vibration occurrence