Estudo de redução de massa em uniões flangeadas de válvulas esfera

Abstract

This research proposes to evaluate the structural integrity of two alternative ball valve flange geometries in order to save material in its construction and consequently reduce manufacturing cost. The analysis is performed using computational simulation where real valve operating conditions are reproduced, which are evaluated by the Elastic Stress Analysis Criterion. During the analysis the pre-load of the stud bolts proved to be the most influential variable under the resulting stresses. Both proposed geometries presented satisfactory results, however the Model A is the one that has a more significant mass reduction, about 27%. With the proven structural integrity, Model A enables flange mass reduction without changing component reliability, resulting in a final cost reduction.