Implementation of Smart Materials for Actuation of Traditional Valve Technology for Hybrid Energy Systems

Abstract

The ever-changing nature of the power industry will require the implementation of hybrid energy systems. Integration of tightly coupled components in hybrids often involves the diversion of high-temperature flow, which need expensive valve technology. An innovative smart material actuation technology is proposed to replace traditional electro-mechanical actuated valve mechanisms with lighter and less expensive actuators. A shape memory alloy (SMA) spring-actuated valve was designed for high-temperature service to demonstrate the promise of smart materials in control valve applications. With SMA springs only generating a maximum force of 3.2N, an innovative valve design was necessary. To demonstrate the concept, a 3-inch Nominal Pipe Size valve was designed and 3D printed using the Stereolithography technique. Increasing the electrical current to actuate the SMA springs reduced actuation time. The maximum current of 10 amps produced the lowest actuation time of 2.85 seconds, with an observed maximum stroke rate of more than 100%/s (considering actuation open/close as 100% stroke) at the midrange. The final assembly of the valve for high-temperature (>600°C) applications was estimated to provide a cost reduction of more than 75% and a weight reduction of 90%.