Types of Control Valves Noise

A control valve is equipment to control fluid flow by varying the size of the flow passage as directed by a signal from a controller. This allows the direct control of flow rate and the consequential control of process quantities such as temperature, pressure, and liquid level.

There are three types of control valve noise as follows:

1, Hydrodynamic noise

2, The mechanical vibration of components

3, Aerodynamic noise

Hydrodynamic Noise

Hydrodynamic noise is produced in liquid flows. The fluid forms vapor bubbles when it passes through a restricted path. This causes a pressure change.  This is called flashing. Flashing is the first stage of cavitation. However, it is possible for flashing to occur by itself without cavitation.

Cavitation is the same as flashing but the pressure is regained in the outlet flow-stream. It means the bubbles returns in the liquid stage. Noise is produced by the energy dissipation of the imploding bubbles. Cavitation produces noise in a valve that has a broad frequency range. however, it has substantial energy at frequencies below 600 Hz. The hydrodynamic is the indication of potential damage to the trim component.

Hydrodynamic noise is not a major concern from a personal safety perspective, as it is usually low in frequency and intensity and as such does not pose a problem to personnel.

Mechanical Noise in Control Valve

The mechanical noise in the control valve generates because;

• The vibration of the valve is caused by random pressure fluctuations within the valve body and/or fluid impingement upon the movable or flexible parts.
• Vibration in the piping system.
• Improper valve design
• Structural problem

Mechanical vibration is an indication of the deterioration of valve components. The vibration is low in frequency and intensity.  The steam valves have more mechanical vibration problems compared to the cage valves. The cage valve has a larger support area and is apt to cause less vibration.

There are two types of control valve noise.

• Hydrodynamic Noise
• Aerodynamic Noise

Aerodynamic Noise in Control Valve

The main source of aerodynamic valve noise is unsteady flow. The unsteady flow creates turbulence inflow the stream.  It is also called aeronautics or flow noise.

The aerodynamic noise depends on;

• Size of the control valve
• Differential pressure across the control valve
• Flow rate

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