Cavitation in a Valve

[RJVAN]

I am beginning design on a valve intended to feed/expand liquids (like NH3) from subcooled liquid state to saturated or mixed state. I expect there will be some cavitation, but of course I'd like to minimize it.

Can anyone recommend good sources to give me background (either empirical or analytical) on how valve part geometry affects cavitation?

Thanks!

 

[ChasBean1]

RJVAN -

To feed/expand liquids without re-pressurizing (causing collapse of the bubbles at the outlet) is basically half of the cavitation process. I think your application probably is best suited, however, by a valve type with preferred throttling characteristics, such as a globe or needle valve.

Other valves (gate, butterfly, ball, etc.) can do the job but may not be smooth and can experience excessive wear on the disc/gate, or sealing edge.

 

[geo57]

Hi,

I would recommend contacting your local Fisher Valve rep. Fisher has extensive data on cavitation, and can most likely answer any questions you would have about it. George Griggs
Sr Process Controls Engineer