Utilizing a Transparent Model of a Semi-Direct Acting Water Solenoid Valve to Visualize Diaphragm Displacement and Apply Resulting Data for CFD Analysis

Abstract

This article introduces a comprehensive methodology that combines physical prototyping and computational modeling to analyze the hydrodynamics and design of a semi-direct acting solenoid valve for water applications. A transparent, injection-molded valve model was used to experimentally measure diaphragm displacement, which exhibited linear behavior at flow rates up to 10.1 L/min. Beyond this threshold, the diaphragm reached maximum displacement, constraining flow control accuracy. These experimental results informed the creation of a computational domain for detailed CFD analysis, demonstrating strong validation against experimental pressure drop data. The CFD simulations identified critical inefficiencies, such as uneven pressure distribution on the diaphragm due to inlet flow, flow imbalances, and vortex formation within the chamber and outlet channel. These issues were traced to specific design limitations. To address these design flaws, this study suggests optimizing the inlet geometry, implementing a symmetric chamber design, and modifying the outlet channel with smoother transitions to enhance flow control and improve operational efficiency.