Compressor air valves: functions, types, design and maintenance

Compressor valve
Introduction
In the working process of the compressor, the air valve plays a vital role. The main function of the air valve is to control the inlet and outlet of the gas, ensure the smooth progress of the compression process, and regulate the flow and pressure of the gas. This article will discuss in detail the functions, types, designs and maintenance strategies of the compressor air valve.

Functions of air valves
The main functions of the compressor air valve include:

Control the inlet and outlet of gas: the air valve controls the inlet and outlet of gas by opening and closing, ensuring that the gas flows along the predetermined path inside the compressor.
Regulate the gas flow: the degree of opening and closing of the air valve directly affects the gas flow, thereby regulating the output pressure and flow of the compressor.
Prevent backflow: the air valve can prevent the gas from backflowing inside the compressor and maintain the stability and efficiency of the compression process.
Protect the compressor: the air valve can automatically open or close when the compressor is overloaded or overpressured to protect the compressor from damage.
Types of air valves
According to the function and position, the compressor air valve is mainly divided into the following types:

Suction valve:

Location: located at the suction end of the compressor, usually installed at the suction port of the cylinder.
Function: Control the gas intake to ensure that the gas enters the compression chamber smoothly.
Features: Usually bear lower pressure, and the opening and closing frequency is high.
Discharge Valve:

Location: Located at the exhaust end of the compressor, usually installed at the exhaust port of the cylinder.
Function: Control the gas discharge to ensure that the gas is discharged from the compression chamber.
Features: Bear higher pressure, and the opening and closing frequency is relatively low.
Safety Valve:

Location: Usually installed at the exhaust end of the compressor or in the pipeline system.
Function: In the case of overpressure in the compressor, it automatically opens to release overpressure gas and protect the compressor from damage.
Features: Designed with a specific pressure opening value, usually with springs and adjustment devices.
Pressure Relief Valve:

Location: Installed at key locations of the compressor, such as the oil system and cooling system.
Function: When the system pressure is too high, it automatically releases the pressure to prevent system damage.
Features: Usually installed in high-pressure areas, designed with different opening pressure ranges.
Key points of valve design
Material selection:
Valves are usually made of high-strength, wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel, alloy steel, etc. The selection of materials should take into account their pressure resistance, temperature resistance and use environment.
Geometry:
The geometry of the valve directly affects the stability of its opening and closing. Common shapes are circular, elliptical and rectangular. The design should consider the principles of fluid dynamics and optimize the gas channel.
Spring design:
The stiffness and preload of the spring are key factors in the performance of the valve. The spring design should ensure that stable opening and closing forces can be provided under various working conditions.
Seal design:
The sealing performance of the valve directly affects the efficiency and safety of the compressor. The seal design should consider gas leakage and wear problems, and wear-resistant gaskets and sealing rings are usually used.
Surface treatment:
The surface treatment of the valve, such as heat treatment and plating, can improve its wear resistance and corrosion resistance and extend its service life.
Maintenance strategy of the valve
Regular inspection:
Regularly check the wear of the valve and the preload of the spring to ensure its normal operation. The inspection frequency should be determined according to the frequency of use and working environment of the compressor.
Cleaning and maintenance:
Regularly clean the oil and carbon deposits around the air valve to prevent blockage and increased wear. Use appropriate cleaning agents and tools to avoid damage to the air valve.
Replacement cycle:
Wear of the air valve will cause its working performance to decline, and in severe cases may cause reduced efficiency and failure of the compressor. The air valve should be replaced in time according to the wear condition. It is usually recommended to check it every 5,000 hours or so.
Lubrication optimization:
Reasonably select and use lubricating oil to ensure that it has good viscosity and anti-wear properties to reduce wear and corrosion of the air valve.
Air valve failure and solution
Air valve wear:
Due to long-term wear, the air valve may crack or deform, resulting in reduced compressor performance. The solution is to replace the worn air valve and check the preload of the spring.
Air valve stuck:
Scaling or carbon deposits on the surface of the air valve may cause the air valve to fail to open and close normally. The solution is to clean the air valve and the surrounding area, and use a special cleaning agent if necessary.
Spring failure:

Spring failure may cause the valve to not work properly, affecting the efficiency and safety of the compressor. The solution is to replace the failed spring and readjust the preload.

Valve leakage:

Poor valve sealing may cause gas leakage, affecting the efficiency and safety of the compressor. The solution is to check the sealing gasket and sealing ring, and replace new seals when necessary.

Conclusion
As a key component of the compressor, the design and maintenance of the compressor valve have a direct impact on the performance and life of the compressor. Through reasonable selection of materials, optimized design and regular maintenance, the working efficiency of the valve can be effectively improved, failures can be reduced, and the service life of the compressor can be extended. In practical applications, a reasonable maintenance and replacement strategy should be formulated according to the specific working conditions and use environment to ensure that the valve is always in the best working condition.


Post time: Dec-10-2024