A Lightweight Cryogenic Valve for Space Applications

Orbital Cryogenics is proposing to develop a new-type of integrated-pilot linear pneumatic valve, capable of providing long-life control of cryogenic liquids and associated gasses, while meeting the low-weight requirements of flight hardware. The valve will have a thermally isolated integrated pilot, with provisions for electrical pilot heat if required. The valve inlet/outlet can be any of several different standard interfaces, including AN-16, V-band, ISO flange, or weld-on. The valve is a center-mounted piston, linear poppet (CPLP) configuration, with an integrated pilot mounted on or within the valve body. The CPLP valve has five main parts: a center section with a piston bore mounted in the center of the flow, held in place by three integral standoffs, inlet and outlet sections mounted to the main body by through-bolted cap screws, the piston and poppet, and the pilot valve with a thermal isolator and provisions for a pilot heater. The main seal stands slightly proud of the poppet, forming an effective seal between the metal surfaces on the poppet and valve outlet. An internal flow simulation will be performed for the prototype valve to estimate pressure drop. The flow passage geometry will then be optimized for minimum pressure, then scaled to achieve the required Cv. The valve will then go through detailed design, prototype fabrication, and testing with both water and liquid nitrogen.