Numerical Simulation Of The Dynamics Of Reed Type Valves

The present work considers the development of a computational model to simulate the dynamics of reed type valves of reciprocating compressors. Because the valve dynamics and the time dependent flow field through the valve are coupled, they are solved simultaneously. A one-degree of freedom model is adopted for the valve motion and the finite volume methodology is employed to obtain the flow field through the valve, which is assumed incompressible, turbulent and axisymmetric. In view of the valve motion a numerical technique has been developed to take into account the variation with time of the computation domain. Through a coordinate transformation a moving coordinate system is obtained so as to expand and contract according to the valve displacement. Results for the turbulent flow (streamlines and turbulence intensity) and for the reed motion (resultant force, valve lift and pressure distribution on the reed surface) are obtained for a prescribed periodic mass flow rate at the valve entrance.