EP4698809A1 - Ensemble soupape amélioré - Google Patents

Ensemble soupape amélioré

Info

Publication number
EP4698809A1
EP4698809A1 EP24724614.3A EP24724614A EP4698809A1 EP 4698809 A1 EP4698809 A1 EP 4698809A1 EP 24724614 A EP24724614 A EP 24724614A EP 4698809 A1 EP4698809 A1 EP 4698809A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fluid
valve assembly
shutter
pressure
pressure tap
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP24724614.3A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Mario Pietro NARDI
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Pietro Fiorentini SpA
Original Assignee
Pietro Fiorentini SpA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Pietro Fiorentini SpA filed Critical Pietro Fiorentini SpA
Publication of EP4698809A1 publication Critical patent/EP4698809A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K1/00—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces
    • F16K1/16—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members
    • F16K1/18—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members with pivoted discs or flaps
    • F16K1/22—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members with pivoted discs or flaps with axis of rotation crossing the valve member, e.g. butterfly valves
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K37/00—Special means in or on valves or other cut-off apparatus for indicating or recording operation thereof, or for enabling an alarm to be given
    • F16K37/0025—Electrical or magnetic means
    • F16K37/005—Electrical or magnetic means for measuring fluid parameters
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K37/00—Special means in or on valves or other cut-off apparatus for indicating or recording operation thereof, or for enabling an alarm to be given
    • F16K37/0075—For recording or indicating the functioning of a valve in combination with test equipment
    • F16K37/0091—For recording or indicating the functioning of a valve in combination with test equipment by measuring fluid parameters
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K5/00—Plug valves; Taps or cocks comprising only cut-off apparatus having at least one of the sealing faces shaped as a more or less complete surface of a solid of revolution, the opening and closing movement being predominantly rotary
    • F16K5/06—Plug valves; Taps or cocks comprising only cut-off apparatus having at least one of the sealing faces shaped as a more or less complete surface of a solid of revolution, the opening and closing movement being predominantly rotary with plugs having spherical surfaces; Packings therefor
    • F16K5/0605—Plug valves; Taps or cocks comprising only cut-off apparatus having at least one of the sealing faces shaped as a more or less complete surface of a solid of revolution, the opening and closing movement being predominantly rotary with plugs having spherical surfaces; Packings therefor with particular plug arrangements, e.g. particular shape or built-in means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an improved valve assembly.
  • the valve assembly according to the invention can be installed in an apparatus for the distribution of a fluid, in particular for a gas or liquid (for example water). More preferably, the valve assembly according to the invention can be installed in an apparatus for the distribution of a fluid to end users, for example for the distribution of gas present and circulating inside a pipe, such as for example a pipe of the distribution network of natural gas or other gases produced in a decentralized way, such as biomethane or hydrogen.
  • the invention finds advantageous use in the technical sector of the production and marketing of apparatuses and devices for the distribution of fluids, in particular gases or liquids (for example water), and is advantageously usable in networks for the transport and distribution of gas (in particular natural gas, or hydrogen and/or hydrogen/natural gas mixtures, or other gases produced in a decentralized way, such as biomethane) or liquids (in particular water).
  • gas in particular natural gas, or hydrogen and/or hydrogen/natural gas mixtures, or other gases produced in a decentralized way, such as biomethane
  • liquids in particular water
  • flow meters were not installed in gas distribution networks as these networks, not having data connections, would have required an operator to physically go to the site to acquire the measurement and this being an expensive, uncomfortable operation which needed to be repeated frequently.
  • known flowmeters which are generally installed in transport networks, have a cost and provide a fiscal measure with a level of accuracy that are also too high, in particular for the need for flow measurement required in transport networks distribution.
  • known flow meters generally require long straight sections of upstream and downstream piping in order to be installed, which sections are not always available in distribution networks.
  • WO201 4/189395 describes a flow measurement system in which, inside the rotating ball shutter of a ball valve, an additional and dedicated component is introduced, i.e. a calibrated measuring disc according to the ISO5167 standard.
  • a calibrated measuring disc according to the ISO5167 standard. This calibrated disk creates, as the flow rate varies, a corresponding pressure drop between upstream and downstream; for each measuring disk there is therefore a known correlation between flow rate and pressure drop and, therefore, by measuring the latter it is possible to trace the flow rate.
  • WO2014/189395 is not particularly satisfactory as it is applicable only to ball type valves, and not to valves of other types, for example butterfly valves; furthermore, the measuring disc inevitably creates a reduction and/or obstruction of the gas passage section through the valve, effectively limiting the maximum capacity of the nominal diameter of the valve, and therefore also of the pipe in which the valve is installed.
  • the object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which allows to overcome, at least in part, the aforementioned drawbacks present in traditional solutions.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly that allows the interception and/or regulation of the fluid that passes through it and, at the same time, allows a measurement of the speed and/or flow rate of the fluid that passes through it.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly that can be installed in an already existing network, and this without requiring additional spaces or varying the geometry of the network itself.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly that can be installed in any section of a fluid distribution network, in particular at a final reduction unit.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which avoids the need to modify the geometry of the network in which it is installed.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which can also act as a measuring instrument in a transport network. 701 .2189
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which satisfies all the regulatory requirements on the subject.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which is structurally and functionally completely reliable.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which is an improvement and/or alternative to the traditional ones.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which has high standards of safety and operability.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which can be manufactured simply, quickly and at relatively low costs.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a valve assembly which has an alternative characterization, both in constructive and functional terms, with respect to traditional ones.
  • Another object of the invention is to propose a method for measuring the flow rate and/or speed of a fluid, such as gas or liquid (for example water), which flows in an apparatus, preferably in an apparatus for distributing said fluid.
  • a fluid such as gas or liquid (for example water)
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a fluid distribution apparatus in which at least one valve assembly object of the present invention is installed
  • Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the valve assembly according to the invention, installed in a pipe and in a condition of opening of the shutter;
  • Figure 2B shows a perspective view of an enlarged detail of the valve assembly of Figure 2A, concerning the fluid flow pressure taps;
  • Figure 2C shows a perspective view of the valve assembly of figure 2A
  • Figure 3A shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the valve assembly according to the invention, installed in a pipe and in a condition of opening of the shutter; 701 .2189
  • Figure 3B shows a perspective view of an enlarged detail of the valve assembly of Figure 3A, concerning the fluid flow pressure taps;
  • Figure 3C shows a perspective view of the valve assembly of figure 3A
  • Figure 4 shows a front view of the valve assembly according to the invention in its closed condition
  • Figure 5 shows a front view of the valve assembly according to the invention in an open condition
  • Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional front view of the valve assembly according to the invention with some components shown schematically
  • Figure 7A shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of the valve assembly according to the invention, in a condition of opening of the shutter;
  • Figure 7B shows a front view of the valve assembly of figure 7A in a condition of opening of the shutter.
  • Figure 7C shows a front view of the valve assembly of figure 7A in a closed condition of the shutter
  • Figure 7D shows the same view of figure 7C without the unit provided with the first and second mouth elements
  • Figure 7E shows the view of the valve assembly shown in figure 7C according to a section plan parallel to the Y axis and passing through the unit provided with the first and second mouth elements.
  • the present invention relates to a valve assembly which has been identified as a whole with the reference number 1 in the attached figures.
  • valve assembly 1 is suitable for being used and installed in gas transport and distribution networks, in particular in the distribution networks of natural gas or other gases produced in a decentralized way (such as biomethane or hydrogen).
  • the valve assembly in question can be advantageously used in distribution networks and/or in transport networks, as well as in fluid distribution equipment such as in particular Final Reduction Groups (GRF).
  • GRF Final Reduction Groups
  • valve assembly according to the invention can be advantageously used to intercept and/or vary the flow of any fluid, be it a liquid, such as water, or a gas, such as natural gas or other gases produced in a decentralized way (such as biomethane or hydrogen), or even a multiphase fluid. 701 .2189
  • valve assembly 1 is particularly but not limitedly suitable for use and installed in a distribution apparatus 100, in particular at the final reduction units (GRF) provided in the distribution network of the gas.
  • GRF final reduction units
  • valve assembly 1 has two ports/ways, that is, with an inlet port 3 and an outlet port 4.
  • valve assembly 1 intercepts and/or regulates/partializes the flow of fluid that passes through the valve itself.
  • valve assembly 1 comprises a valve body 2 in which a fixed opening 20 is defined and in which a shutter 5 (i.e. mobile member of the valve assembly 1) is housed which acts at said fixed opening 20.
  • shutter 5 is moved with respect to said fixed opening 20 so as to block the flow of fluid or so as to define at least one passage 2’ to allow and/or regulate/partialize the flow of fluid that passes through the valve assembly 1 .
  • the valve assembly 1 may comprise an interception valve in which the shutter 5 is movable with respect to the fixed opening between one (single/single) opening condition - preferably of maximum/complete opening - and a closing one to allow respectively and exclusively the passage or the stop of the fluid.
  • the valve assembly 1 can comprise a two-position valve (on/off) and, preferably, can be a safety valve.
  • the valve assembly 1 may comprise a regulating valve in which the shutter 5 is movable with respect to the fixed opening 20 between a closed condition and a plurality of different opening conditions, in particularly comprising a condition of maximum opening at at least one intermediate opening condition, to thus define different areas for the passage sections 2’ and vary in a controlled manner the flow of the fluid that passes through the valve itself.
  • valve assembly 1 can be associated with a fluid inlet, for example defined by an upstream pipe section T1 , and with a fluid outlet, for example defined by a pipe section T2 downstream of said valve assembly.
  • a fluid inlet for example defined by an upstream pipe section T1
  • a fluid outlet for example defined by a pipe section T2 downstream of said valve assembly.
  • the inlet port 3 of the valve assembly 1 is intended to be fluidly connected with the upstream portion of pipe T1
  • outlet port 4 of the valve assembly 1 is intended to be fluidically connected with the downstream portion of pipe T2.
  • mechanical connection means can be provided on the valve body 2 with the upstream pipe section T1 and with the downstream pipe section T2, for example with flanged portions 29 of the latter. 701 .2189
  • connection of the valve body 2 of the valve assembly 1 with the upstream portions T 1 and downstream T2 is watertight, to prevent the fluid from escaping to the outside.
  • the valve body 2 has an annular shape - made in one or more pieces - and internally delimits the passage 2’.
  • the valve body 2 is made of metal.
  • the valve body 2 can comprise internally and at the fixed opening 20 a valve seat, preferably comprising a gasket or the like, which acts as a seat for the shutter 5 and ensures the seal of the fluid when it is in contact with the valve shutter 5.
  • the fixed opening 20 of the valve body 2, at which the shutter 5 acts is orthogonal with respect to an axis X also corresponding to the direction of the flow of fluid that passes through said fixed opening.
  • the X axis has an orientation corresponding to and in agreement with the orientation with which the fluid passes through the valve assembly 1 and, in particular, the fixed opening 20.
  • the X axis can correspond to or be parallel to the longitudinal development axis portions of pipe immediately upstream T1 and immediately downstream T2 intended to be connected respectively at the inlet and outlet to said valve assembly 1 .
  • the fixed opening 20 has a substantially circular section.
  • the fixed opening 20 extends along the X axis between the inlet port 3 and the outlet port 4 and faces said doors.
  • the fixed opening 20, the inlet port 3 and the outlet port 4 are mutually aligned along the X axis.
  • the shutter 5 which is housed inside the valve body 2 is operatively associated by means of at least one transmission member, preferably defined by a stem 10, to an actuator (not shown) configured to cause the movement of said shutter 5 between at least one opening condition, in which it allows the fluid to flow through said at least one passage 2', and a closed condition in which it blocks/intercepts the flow of fluid through the valve assembly 1 .
  • the stem 10 transmits the motion from the actuator to the shutter.
  • the transmitted motion can be rotary, thus causing the rotation of the shutter 5, or linear translation, thus causing the translation of the shutter 5.
  • said shutter 5 comprises at least one body 8 which is movable in rotation, and in particular, it is rotatable with respect to the fixed opening 20 of the valve body 2.
  • said body 8 is rotatable, and in particular it is rotatable, around an axis of rotation Y which is orthogonal to the axis X.
  • said body 8 has a substantially discoidal conformation and is equipped with a first face 8’ and a second face 8” and is movable in rotation around a rotation axis Y which crosses diametrically said discoidal body and is 701 .2189 orthogonal with respect to X.
  • the valve assembly 1 conveniently comprises a butterfly-type shutter.
  • the shutter 5 is integral with the stem 10 which is mounted on the valve body 2 so as to be moved with respect to the latter, preferably so as to be rotated with respect to the valve body 2 around the Y axis.
  • the stem 10 crosses the shutter 5 diametrically and engages rotatably at its ends on the valve body 2 at the fixed opening 20.
  • the stem 10 is operatively associated with actuation means configured to cause its rotation, and therefore of the shutter 5 integral with it, around the Y axis corresponding to the longitudinal development axis of the stem itself.
  • the body 8 of the shutter 5 can have other shapes according to the knowledge available to those skilled in the art, for example it can have a substantially spherical or mushroom or cone shape.
  • the valve assembly 1 also comprises at least a first pressure tap 9' defined and/or mounted on said shutter 5 and at least a second pressure tap 9" defined and/or mounted on said shutter 5.
  • valve assembly 1 comprises fluidic connection means 16 between said first pressure tap 9', said second pressure tap 9" and measuring means 17, as better described below.
  • connection means 16 comprising at least one fluidic circuit 13 which it is obtained inside said shutter 5 and/or inside the valve body 2 and/or inside the member - preferably defined by the stem 10 - which transmits motion to the shutter 5.
  • the fluid circuit 13 comprises one or more ducts 13' obtained inside the shutter 5 and/or inside the stem 10 and/or inside the valve body 2.
  • said first pressure tap 9' defines a total pressure tap
  • said second pressure tap 9" defines a static pressure tap
  • said first pressure tap 9' and said second pressure tap 9" - both mounted and/or defined on the shutter 5 - respectively define the total pressure tap and the static pressure tap of a Pitot tube.
  • the first pressure tap 9' is mounted and/or defined on the shutter 5 in an area of the latter which, when the shutter itself is open, results in a stagnation zone.
  • the second pressure tap 9" is mounted and/or defined on the shutter 5 in a different area from that of the first pressure tap 9' and in which the flow lines of the flow field of the fluid are not altered by the presence of said pressure taps.
  • the first pressure tap 9' and the second pressure tap 9" are configured so that the axis V1 that emerges orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9' has a different/non- coincident direction or a coincident/parallel direction and a different orientation with respect to the V2 axis which protrudes orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9". 701 .2189
  • the axes V1 and V2 are mutually parallel and have opposite orientations.
  • the axes V1 and V2 are perpendicular to each other.
  • said first pressure tap 9' is mounted and/or defined on said shutter 5 so that, in a condition of opening of said shutter, and preferably in its condition of maximum and/or single opening, it is open and facing towards the direction of flow of the fluid through the fixed opening 20, to thus substantially intercept the flow of said inlet fluid from the front.
  • said first pressure tap 9' is mounted and/or defined on said shutter 5 so that, in a condition of opening of said shutter, the axis V1 which protrudes orthogonally from said first pressure tap 9' is substantially parallel, but with the opposite orientation, with respect to the X axis which crosses orthogonally the fixed opening 20 with an orientation corresponding to that of the advancement of the fluid through the valve assembly 1 .
  • the second pressure tap 9" is defined and/or mounted on said shutter 5 so that, in the same opening condition as said shutter, the axis V2 which protrudes orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9" defines with the axis V1 which protrudes orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9' an angle of approximately 90° -180°.
  • the axis V2 which protrudes orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9" is arranged so as to define an angle of 180° with respect to the axis V1 which it emerges orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9'.
  • the axis V2 which protrudes orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9" is arranged so as to define an angle of 90° with respect to the axis V1 which protrudes orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9'.
  • the pressure taps 9', 9" are mounted and/or defined on the same face 8' of the shutter 5, however they could suitably be mounted and/or defined on different or opposite faces of the shutter 5.
  • the pressure taps 9' and 9" are superimposed on each other along the direction/axis Y.
  • the shutter 5 is movable around the axis of rotation Y between said closing condition (see fig. 4), in which said first face 8' and said second face 8" are substantially transverse to the X axis and said opening condition (see fig. 5) in which said first face 8' and said second face 8" are substantially parallel to the X axis.
  • the first pressure tap 9' and/or the second pressure tap 9" are formed in corresponding mouth elements, 6' or 6” respectively, which are mechanically associated to said shutter 5, preferably they are mounted on the latter. 701 .2189
  • the first pressure tap 9' comprises a first mouth element 6’ that is mechanically mounted on the shutter 5 and that is fluidical ly connected with the fluidic circuit 13 which it is obtained, at least partly, inside said shutter 5.
  • the second pressure tap 9 comprises a second mouth element 6” that is mechanically mounted on the shutter 5 and that is fluidically connected with the fluidic circuit 13 which it is obtained, at least partly, inside said shutter 5.
  • each mouth element 6' or 6" comprises a tubular section 11 shaped like an "L" which is open at one end so as to define said first pressure tap 9' or said second pressure tap 9", while at the other end it is mechanically associated with said shutter 5.
  • said tubular section 11 comprises a first part which extends from the first face 8' (ie perpendicular to the axes V1 or V2) and a second part which extends parallel to said first face 8' (ie parallel to the V1 or V2 axes) and ends with the respective pressure tap 9' or 9".
  • a first mouth element 6' is provided which, at its free end, defines the first pressure tap 9' and a second mouth element 6" which, at its free end, defines the second pressure tap 9".
  • the first pressure tap 9' and/or the second pressure tap 9" are defined by corresponding holes 23 made on said shutter 5.
  • said holes are formed on one face of said disk.
  • a first mouth element 6' is provided which, at its free end, defines the first pressure tap 9', while the second pressure tap 9" is defined by a hole 23 which is obtained directly on the body of said shutter 5.
  • the valve assembly 1 comprises a single unit 50 comprising the first mouth element 6' and the second mouth element 6”; preferably, such unit 50 may be defined by a single piece that may be mounted on the shutter 5.
  • the first pressure tap 9’ and the second pressure tap 9' are configured so that the axis V1 which protrudes orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9’ has a direction parallel with the same orientation with respect to the axis V2 which comes out orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9".
  • both the pressure taps 9’ and 9” may be opened by facing towards the upstream of the valve assembly 1.
  • the second pressure tap 9" comprises a Venturi tube 40 configured to increase the speed and lowering the pressure of the fluid entering said second pressure tap 9", thus reducing the static pressure Ps of said fluid. 701 .2189
  • the second mouth element 6” of the second pressure tap 9 comprises a Venturi tube 40.
  • the Venturi tube 40 is at the entry of the second mouth element 6”.
  • the second mouth element 6” of the second pressure tap 9” comprises at least a portion configured as a Venturi tube 40 so as to locally increase the fluid speed entering such tap and lowering the corresponding pressure, i.e. the static pressure Ps.
  • the linear Venturi tube 40 of the second mouth element 6 may have a cross-section reducing/narrowing starting from the entry 41 of the second mouth element 6”; more in detail, the cross-section at the entry 41 of the second mount element 6” is wider and then it narrows/reduces so as so as to increase the fluid speed.
  • the Venturi tube 40 at the second pressure tap 9” allows to reduce the static pressure (i.e. the static pressure Ps) at said tap so as to increase said pressure difference (i.e. the dynamic pressure “dP”), thus increasing the precision of calculating the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve assembly.
  • the linear Venturi tube 40 comprises in sequence a wider first entry section 41 , a narrowing/converging second/intermediate section 42 and a widening/diverging thi rd/exit section 43 (see Fig. 7C).
  • the linear Venturi tube 40 is open at both ends and, in particular, the third/exit section 43 is open at its free end.
  • the entry 41 of the linear Venturi tube 40 is in fluidic communication with the fluid inlet that is upstream of the valve assembly, while the third/exit section is in fluidic communication with the fluid outlet that is downstream of the valve assembly.
  • the first mouth element 6’ is open at one end for the entry of the fluid within the same mouth element and then the first mouth element 6’ is configured so as to be in fluidic communication only with a first entry passage 45 of fluidic circuit 13 obtained inside the shutter 5.
  • the second mouth element 6 is open at its both ends so that the entering fluid can flow through it, while between the opposite ends - and more preferably downstream of the linear Venturi tube 40 - there is a passage for the fluidic communication with a second entry passage 46 of the fluidic circuit 13 obtained inside the shutter 5.
  • the valve assembly 1 comprises measuring means 17 operatively connected to said first pressure tap 9' and to said second pressure tap 9" and configured to detect and/or determine at least one quantity to be used for calculating the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid through the valve assembly 1 .
  • said measuring means 17 are configured to detect and/or determine at least one of the following quantities:
  • valve assembly 1 comprises fluid connection means 16 between said first pressure tap 9', said second pressure tap 9" and said measuring means 17.
  • the fluidic circuit 13 connects each pressure tap 9' or 9" with a corresponding pressure transducer and/or with a differential pressure transducer.
  • the stem 10 extending along said axis of rotation Y, mechanically connected to said shutter 5 and movable in rotation around said axis of rotation Y, is internally equipped with at least one duct 13' and 13" which communicates fluid said first and second pressure tap 9', 9" with said measuring means 17. 701 .2189
  • the stem 10 is equipped with two distinct ducts 13' and 13" placed in fluid communication respectively with the first pressure tap 9' and the second pressure tap 9".
  • said two ducts 13' and 13" are in fluid communication respectively with the mouths 6' and 6", if provided, or with the holes 23.
  • valve assembly 1 also comprises a fixed structure 19 which is associated with the valve body 2.
  • the fixed structure 19 comprises a jacket 14 inside which the stem 10 is rotatably housed which is integral in rotation with the shutter 5.
  • valve assembly 1 of the present invention in addition to the function of interception and/or regulation of the fluid flow, also allows to implement the detection and measurement of the speed and/or flow rate Q (as described in detail below), of the fluid that passes through the valve assembly and this is substantially obtained within the overall dimensions of the valve assembly itself, thus obviating the need to install an additional sensor (such as a dedicated flow meter) outside the valve assembly 1.
  • an additional sensor such as a dedicated flow meter
  • valve assembly 1 can be used in existing and operational distribution apparatuses to replace valve assemblies already present therein, without the need to vary the geometry of said apparatuses and without further encumbrance, thus allowing to have - in addition to the function of interception and/or regulation of the fluid flow - also a detection of the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid itself.
  • the measuring means 17 comprise at least one pressure transducer which is operatively connected - and in particular is fluidically connected - to said first pressure tap 9' and to said second pressure tap 9".
  • a first pressure transducer can be provided which is operatively connected to the first pressure tap 9' to thus provide a signal representative of the total pressure of the fluid.
  • a second pressure transducer can be provided which is operatively connected to the second pressure tap 9" to thus provide a signal representative of the static pressure of the fluid.
  • a differential pressure transducer can be provided which is operatively connected to the first 9' and to the second pressure tap 9" to thus provide a signal representative of the dynamic pressure, i.e. of the fluid pressure difference between the first and the second pressure tap.
  • said at least one pressure transducer is configured to generate at its output a corresponding electrical signal representative of the pressure of the fluid drawn at the first pressure tap 9' and the second pressure tap 9", and/or their difference. 701 .2189
  • said at least one pressure transducer comprises a flow meter - for example a flow meter - which is operationally mounted on a by-pass circuit which receives the flow taken from said first pressure tap 9' and re-introduced into said second pressure tap 9", to thus provide a signal representative of the flow rate “q” of the flow deriving from the pressure difference between the first and second pressure taps.
  • said at least one transducer of the measuring means 17 is mounted externally with respect to the valve body 2, but it could also be mounted on the latter.
  • the valve assembly 1 also comprises an electronic processing unit 7 which is electronically - via cable or via wireless - connected to the measuring means 17 and which is configured to determine the speed and/or flow rate Q of said fluid passing through the unit valve on the basis of the quantities detected and/or determined by said measuring means 17.
  • the processing unit 7 is electronically connected to said at least one transducer and is configured to receive from them an electrical signal representative of said corresponding values of pressure PT, P S , dP and/or flow rate q.
  • the processing unit 7 is configured to determine the speed and/or flow rate Q of said fluid on the basis of the pressure values at the first pressure tap 9' and the second pressure tap 9", and/or directly on the basis of their difference, and/or on the basis of the flow rate q of said fluid - preferably circulating in a by-pass circuit - deriving from the pressure difference at the first pressure tap 9' and the second pressure tap 9".
  • valve assembly 1 is also suitable for determining the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid that passes through the valve, quickly, easily and without requiring further dimensions.
  • the measuring means 17 and the electronic processing unit 7 are mounted on the same electronic board 18.
  • the measuring means 17 can be mounted on the valve body 2 and be connected via cable or via wireless with the electronic processing unit 7.
  • the electronic processing unit 7 can be mounted on or near the valve body 2, or it can also be provided in a remote location with respect to the valve body 2.
  • the processing electronics unit 7 comprises a microprocessor or a microcontroller or a computer/processor.
  • the electronic processing unit 7 can be mounted externally on the valve body 2 or it can be mounted externally and spaced apart from the valve body 2.
  • the same electronic unit which acts as an electronic processing unit 7 can also be configured for commanding the opening or closing movement of the shutter 5, or a separate and dedicated electronic unit could be provided for the command of the shutter. 701 .2189
  • the electronic processing unit 7 comprises at least one calculation module programmed to receive and process the electrical signals of the pressure transducers to thus calculate the aforementioned value of the speed and/or flow rate Q of said fluid passing through the valve assembly 1 .
  • the electronic processing unit 7 and in particular its calculation module is configured to calculate the value of the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid flowing through at least a passage 2' of the valve assembly 1 on the basis of the value of total pressure PT, measured at the first pressure tap 9' and the static pressure value Ps, measured at the second pressure tap 9".
  • the electronic processing unit 7 and in particular its calculation module is configured to calculate the value of the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid flowing through the passage 2' of the valve assembly 1 on the basis of the difference dP of the value of total pressure, measured at the first pressure tap 9' and the static pressure value, measured at the second pressure tap 9".
  • the calculation module advantageously determines the flow rate value Q by multiplying this value of velocity for the area of said at least one passage 2' through which the fluid flows. Conveniently, this calculation of the speed and/or flow rate Q indirectly starting from the total and static pressure values of the fluid exploits the principle known per se with the term "Pitot tube".
  • the electronic processing unit 7 and in particular its calculation module is configured to calculate the value of the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid flowing through the passage 2' of the valve assembly 1 on the basis of the flow rate q of fluid deriving from the difference in pressure between the first and second pressure taps and which circulates in a by-pass circuit which receives the flow taken from said first pressure tap 9’ and then reintroduced into said second pressure tap 9".
  • the electronic processing unit 7 further comprises at least one communication module, which receives the speed and/or flow rate values Q and sends it to an external device, even remote, preferably for monitoring and/or control purposes. 701 .2189
  • the valve assembly 1 may comprise a sensor (not shown) for detecting and determining the density of the fluid flowing through the valve.
  • a sensor for detecting and determining the density of the fluid flowing through the valve.
  • such density sensor may be mounted on the valve assembly 1 , for example it may be mounted externally on the shutter 5 and/or inside the fluidic circuit 13 and/or in the first 6’ and/or second mouth elements 6”.
  • the valve assembly 1 may comprise a further sensor (not shown) for detecting and determining the temperature of the fluid flowing through the valve.
  • a further sensor for detecting and determining the temperature of the fluid flowing through the valve.
  • such temperature sensor may be mounted on the valve assembly 1 , for example it may be mounted externally on the shutter 5 and/or inside the fluidic circuit 13 and/or in the first 6’ and/or second mouth elements 6”.
  • said sensor for the density and/or said further sensor for the temperature are electronically connected with the measuring means 17 and/or with the electronic processing unit 7 so as to calculate the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve assembly by considering also the density and/or the temperature of the fluid.
  • this allows to calculate the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid at the reference thermodynamic conditions.
  • said sensor for the density and/or said further sensor for the temperature are mounted outside the valve assembly 1 , for example on the upstream pipe section T1 and/or on the downstream pipe section T2, and they are electronically connected with the electronic processing unit 7 so as to calculate the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve assembly by considering also the density and/or the temperature of the fluid.
  • the valve assembly 1 comprises a display module (not illustrated in the attached figures), for example a display, for displaying the measured and/or calculated measurements.
  • a display module for example a display, for displaying the measured and/or calculated measurements.
  • the valve assembly 1 comprises a memorization module (not illustrated in the attached figures), for thus memorizing the measurements detected and/or calculated.
  • valve assembly 1 comprises a transmission or transceiver module (not shown in the attached figures), preferably of the wireless type, for thus remotely transmitting the measured and/or calculated measurements.
  • valve assembly 1 comprises at least one source of electrical power supply for the components of the unit itself and/or may comprise means for electrical connection to an external source for the electrical power supply of said components.
  • no disc is provided and mounted inside the shutter 5 or on the latter (and in particular no calibrated measuring disc is provided) or any other component. 701 .2189
  • the present invention also relates to a fluid distribution apparatus 100 comprising at least one valve assembly 1 of the type described up to now in its essential and/or optional characteristics. All the above characteristics with reference to the valve assembly 1 must also be understood as referring to the distribution apparatus 100 comprising at least one valve assembly 1 .
  • the apparatus 100 comprises at least one distribution line 101 , which comprises a pipe in which the fluid flows, in particular combustible gas but it could also be a liquid, for example water.
  • the distribution line 101 extends between an inlet section 102 and an outlet section 103 in which at least one valve assembly 1 is preferably interposed.
  • the fluid entering the inlet section 102 is a high or medium pressure fluid and the fluid leaving the outlet section 103 is a low pressure fluid, or in any case a lower pressure than the inlet one.
  • the apparatus 100 preferably comprises at least one pressure reducing device 106 placed to intercept the line 101 , interposed between the inlet section 102 and the outlet section 103.
  • the distribution line 101 comprises two branches 105, 105’ in parallel with each other in which the fluid flows. In this way, it is possible to operate on the distribution apparatus, for example in the case of maintenance, by blocking one branch at a time without interrupting the supply of fluid to the users downstream of the apparatus.
  • the apparatus 100 comprises at least one said pressure reducing device 106 for each branch 105, 105’ and advantageously at least two devices 106 for each branch 105, 105'.
  • the apparatus 100 also comprises at least one filter 107 placed to intercept the line 101 and preferably comprises two filters 107, each placed to intercept a corresponding branch 105, 105' preferably in proximity to the inlet section 102.
  • the apparatus 100 comprises at least one valve assembly 1 of the type described above.
  • the apparatus 100 can comprise at least one valve assembly 1 placed to intercept each branch 105, 105'.
  • the apparatus can comprise at least two valve assemblies 1 , each placed to intercept the corresponding branch 105, 105' near the inlet and/or outlet of said branch.
  • the apparatus comprises four valve assemblies 1 , in which two valve assemblies 1 are placed to intercept the first branch 105, and two valve assemblies 1 are arranged to intercept the second branch 105'.
  • two valve assemblies are placed to intercept the corresponding branches 105, 105' near the inlet of said branches and two valve assemblies 701 .2189 are placed to intercept the corresponding branches 105, 105' near the outlet of said branches.
  • valve assembly 1 according to the invention can be used to replace the traditional butterfly valves provided in gas distribution networks, in particular in final reduction units.
  • the present invention also concerns a method for measuring the speed and/or flow rate Q of a fluid flowing in an apparatus, preferably in an apparatus for distributing said fluid, characterized in that it is used a valve assembly 1 as described above.
  • valve assembly 1 is particularly advantageous in that:
  • a first pressure tap is provided which instead defines a total pressure tap.
  • the pressure taps are mounted and/or defined directly on the shutter and, in particular, unlike the solution of WO2014/189395, the installation and use of a dedicated component is avoided, i.e.
  • the calibrated measuring disc which is mounted on the shutter and which, inevitably and undesirably, reduces and/or obstructs the section of passage of the fluid through the valve, thus limiting the maximum capacity of the nominal diameter of the valve and of the installation pipe, as well as limiting its application to ball valves only.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Measuring Volume Flow (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un ensemble soupape (1) pour un fluide, comprenant un corps de soupape (2) dans lequel une ouverture fixe (20) est délimitée et qui comprend un obturateur (5) qui est actionné de façon à être mobile par rapport à ladite ouverture fixe (20) entre au moins un état ouvert, dans laquelle celui-ci délimite au moins un passage (2') pour l'écoulement dudit fluide à travers l'ensemble soupape (1), et un état fermé dans lequel celui-ci bloque l'écoulement de fluide à travers l'ensemble soupape (1), ledit ensemble soupape (1) étant caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend en outre : – au moins une première prise de pression (9') définie et/ou montée sur ledit obturateur (5) de sorte que, lorsque ledit obturateur (5) est dans ledit au moins un état ouvert, celle-ci définisse une prise de pression totale, – au moins une seconde prise de pression (9") définie et/ou montée sur ledit obturateur (5) et conçue pour définir une prise de pression statique, – des moyens de mesure (17) reliés fonctionnellement à ladite première prise de pression (9') et à ladite seconde prise de pression (9") et conçus pour détecter et/ou déterminer au moins une quantité à utiliser pour calculer la vitesse et/ou le débit (Q) du fluide à travers l'ensemble soupape (1), et caractérisés en ce que la seconde prise de pression (9") comprend un tube de Venturi (40) conçu pour augmenter la vitesse et abaisser la pression du fluide entrant dans ladite seconde prise de pression (9"), réduisant ainsi la pression statique (Ps) dudit fluide.
EP24724614.3A 2023-04-17 2024-04-11 Ensemble soupape amélioré Pending EP4698809A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102023000007374A IT202300007374A1 (it) 2023-04-17 2023-04-17 Gruppo valvola perfezionato.
PCT/IB2024/053551 WO2024218615A1 (fr) 2023-04-17 2024-04-11 Ensemble soupape amélioré

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4698809A1 true EP4698809A1 (fr) 2026-02-25

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EP24724614.3A Pending EP4698809A1 (fr) 2023-04-17 2024-04-11 Ensemble soupape amélioré

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP4698809A1 (fr)
CN (1) CN120958263A (fr)
IT (1) IT202300007374A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2024218615A1 (fr)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN120083842B (zh) * 2025-04-30 2025-07-11 良正阀门有限公司 一种天然气管路用双向密封自泄压超低温球阀

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5533549A (en) * 1995-01-26 1996-07-09 Hydronic Components, Inc. Ball valve with integrated removable flow venturi, flow balancing means, and pipe union means
PL225433B1 (pl) 2013-05-24 2017-04-28 Zakład Produkcji Doświadczalnej Automatyki Spółka Z Ograniczoną Odpowiedzial Układ do pomiaru przepływu mediów, zwłaszcza na rurociągach przemysłowych
US10768031B2 (en) * 2018-01-17 2020-09-08 Johnson Controls, Inc. Air duct airflow sensor
WO2021061985A1 (fr) * 2019-09-24 2021-04-01 Checkmate Environmental Solutions, Inc. Vanne avec transducteur et mesure de fluide ou de lait

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IT202300007374A1 (it) 2024-10-17
WO2024218615A1 (fr) 2024-10-24
CN120958263A (zh) 2025-11-14

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