As a core control component in a hydraulic system, the rationality of the internal flow path design of a Crane accessories-multi-way valve housings directly impacts the system's efficiency, stability, and reliability. Flow path design must balance fluid dynamics, structural strength requirements, and the coordinated control of multiple actuators. It requires comprehensive consideration from seven perspectives: layout optimization, structural innovation, material selection, process control, seal design, simulation verification, and energy conservation and environmental protection.
Flow path layout should prioritize functional integration, utilizing a hybrid series-parallel architecture to achieve precise distribution of hydraulic oil across multiple channels. For example, when operating multiple coordinated actions such as hoisting, boom adjustment, telescoping, and slewing, the flow path design must ensure that each valve body can be independently controlled while also dynamically matching flow rates through the main oil circuit. Sharp bends or sudden changes in cross-section should be avoided in the flow path. Using circular arc transitions can reduce eddy currents and energy loss. Optimizing the bridge structure can also reduce pressure loss and improve system response speed.
Structural innovation should focus on reducing steady-state hydraulic forces and improving operational stability. Steady-state hydraulic force is a key source of resistance in multi-way valve operation. Annular grooves or tapered structures on the valve core can compensate for this interference. Furthermore, the use of U-shaped throttle grooves improves fluid flow uniformity and reduces pressure fluctuations at the throttle, thereby enhancing micro-motion performance. For complex motion scenarios, the flow path design must support pressure compensation to ensure that the flow rate of each actuator is not affected by load fluctuations.
Material selection requires a balance between strength, corrosion resistance, and processability. Valve body materials must withstand the impact of high-pressure hydraulic fluid and long-term vibration. High-strength alloy steel or cast iron is typically selected, and surface corrosion resistance is enhanced through chrome plating or nitriding. For high-temperature and high-humidity environments, stainless steel or nickel-based alloys effectively resist chemical attack and extend service life. Seal materials must balance temperature resistance and fluid resistance. Fluorine rubber or perfluoroelastomer ensures sealing reliability under extreme operating conditions.
Process control ensures flow path accuracy and surface quality. Precision casting techniques can reduce subsequent machining allowances, while CNC milling or electro-discharge machining ensures flow path dimensional accuracy. The surface roughness of the flow channel must be controlled below Ra0.2 to reduce fluid friction. During assembly, the workshop temperature must be maintained at 20±2°C, and the humidity must not exceed 60% to prevent thermal expansion and contraction, or moisture deformation of precision parts, which could affect flow channel sealing.
The sealing design must prevent internal leakage and external contamination. Crane accessories-multi-way valve housings require multiple high-pressure seals, such as the gap between the valve core and the valve body, and at flow channel joints. Using a combined sealing structure, such as an O-ring and a retaining ring, can enhance sealing reliability. Furthermore, the flow channel design must avoid dead corners to prevent impurity accumulation and seal failure. If necessary, filters or magnetic adsorption devices can be added to improve system cleanliness.
Simulation verification must be integrated throughout the design process. Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software to simulate and analyze the flow channel can predict pressure distribution, flow velocity variations, and hydraulic forces in advance, providing data support for structural optimization. For example, after simulation identified pressure concentration at a bridge structure transition, the use of a circular transition design significantly reduced pressure loss. In addition, finite element analysis (FEA) can assess stress concentration within the valve body under high pressure, ensuring the design meets strength requirements.
Energy conservation and environmental protection must be key design considerations. By optimizing the flow path layout to reduce pressure loss, system energy consumption can be lowered. A low-resistance throttle groove design reduces hydraulic oil heating and extends oil life. Furthermore, the modular design concept makes the crane accessories—multi-way valve housing—easier to maintain and upgrade. For example, the main valve, overload valve, and charge valve are integrated into modular components, allowing for complete replacement during maintenance, reducing downtime and improving equipment utilization.
