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How Does a Critical Orifice Work?

Published in Engineering 2 mins read

A critical orifice is a device designed to control the flow of a fluid by creating a specific pressure drop across it, resulting in choked flow conditions.

Understanding Choked Flow

Choked flow occurs when the fluid velocity reaches the speed of sound at the orifice's throat. This happens when the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the orifice is high enough to overcome the fluid's internal resistance.

How a Critical Orifice Works:

  1. Fluid enters the orifice: The fluid, under pressure, enters the critical orifice.
  2. Pressure drop: As the fluid flows through the narrow throat of the orifice, its velocity increases, and its pressure decreases.
  3. Choked flow: The pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the orifice reaches a critical point where the fluid's velocity equals the speed of sound. This point is known as the choked flow condition.
  4. Constant mass flow rate: Once choked flow is reached, further increases in the upstream pressure do not increase the mass flow rate. The orifice acts as a limiting factor, controlling the flow rate regardless of the upstream pressure.

Applications of Critical Orifices:

Critical orifices are used in various applications, including:

  • Flow measurement: They can measure the mass flow rate of gases and liquids.
  • Pressure regulation: They can regulate the pressure of a fluid by controlling the flow rate.
  • Safety devices: They can act as safety devices in systems where excessive pressure could cause damage.

Examples:

  • Gas pipeline: A critical orifice can be used to control the flow of natural gas in a pipeline, ensuring a safe and efficient delivery.
  • Fuel injection system: In a fuel injection system, a critical orifice can be used to control the flow of fuel to the engine, ensuring optimal combustion.

Practical Insights:

  • The size and shape of the critical orifice are crucial factors determining the choked flow condition.
  • The fluid properties, such as density and viscosity, also affect the flow rate.
  • Critical orifices are often used in conjunction with pressure sensors and flow meters to monitor and control the flow rate.

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