Experimental Investigation of Flow and Force Characteristics of Hydraulic Poppet and Disc Valves

Abstract

Tests have been performed on a range of different poppet and disc valves operating under steady flow, non-cavitating conditions, for Reynolds numbers greater than 2500. The working fluid was water, and the axisymmetric valve housing was constructed from clear perspex to facilitate flow visualization. Measured flow coefficients and force characteristics show marked differences depending on valve geometry and opening. These differences are explained with reference to visualized flow patterns.