Ice slurry flow in a poppet-type flow control valve

The paper presents the results of experimental studies of the flow resistance of ice slurry in a poppet-type flow control valve with a diameter of 20 mm. The studies found that the usable regulation range of the valve decreases as the content of ice particles in the slurry rises. The paper draws on a simulation calculation model and 10 geometric models of the valve (for various locations of the poppet) in order to optimize the characteristics of the valve. Using the simulation model of the valve, later verified by experimental studies, changes in the construction of the valve were considered, which could improve its regulation capability for the flow of ice slurry with a content of ice particles ranging from 5% to 20%. During simulation studies, the influence of a cylindrical shape of the poppet with diameters between 18.5 mm and 19.6 mm and a conical shape, with the angle between the generators ranging from 0° to 15°, on the characteristics of the valve was examined. The studies also covered the impact of the degree of edge bevelling of the poppet within the range of 0–1.5 mm. Changes in the characteristics of the poppet resulting from simulation calculations were verified in experimental studies of the modified shape of the poppet.

► I examine a flow of 5–20% ice slurry made from 10.6% ethylene alcohol.
► I examine the pressure loss in a poppet-type flow control valve.
► Changes in the valve characteristics resulting from simulation were presented.
► Influence of a cylindrical and conical shape of the poppet was examined.
► Impact of the degree of edge bevelling of the poppet was also examined.