IT202300007374A1 - Improved valve group. - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

of the invention entitled:

?Improved valve group?

FIELD OF TECHNICAL

The present invention concerns an improved valve assembly. Preferably, but not limited to, the valve assembly according to the invention can be installed in a fluid distribution apparatus, in particular a gas or liquid (for example water). More preferably, the valve assembly according to the invention can be installed in a fluid distribution apparatus to end users, for example for the distribution of gas present and circulating inside a pipeline, such as for example a pipeline of the natural gas distribution network or other gases produced in a decentralized manner, such as biomethane or hydrogen.

Therefore, the invention finds advantageous use in the technical sector of the production and marketing of apparatus and devices for the distribution of fluids, in particular gas or liquids (for example water), and can be advantageously used in networks for the transport and distribution of gas (in particular natural gas, or hydrogen and/or hydrogen/natural gas mixtures, or other gases produced in a decentralised manner, such as for example biomethane) or liquids (in particular water).

STATE OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Historically, flow meters were not installed in gas distribution networks because these networks, not being equipped with data connections, would have required an operator to physically go on site to acquire the measurement, and this was an expensive, inconvenient operation that needed to be repeated frequently.

Currently, however, in gas distribution networks, but this also applies to water or other liquids, there is a need to know - for example in correspondence with the final reduction groups (also called ?GRF?) that reduce the gas pressure to the final users - the flow rate of the gas that passes through the groups of the network and this in order to then be able to optimally distribute the gas between the various groups of the network itself. In particular, there is a need to digitize the monitoring of the flow rate of the gas that passes through the various groups of a distribution network, to thus allow the network manager to monitor and balance remotely (even not in real-time) the flow of gas between the various groups of the network itself.

In this context, where the geometry of the existing distribution network does not allow, in particular due to space problems, the installation of a flow meter, it becomes - inevitably and undesirably - necessary to completely upset the geometry of the network itself, while where there is not even the possibility of varying it (think for example of an underground distribution network that develops in the vicinity of concrete constructions that constrain its geometry) it is inevitably necessary to forgo the installation of the flow meter.

Furthermore, it should be considered that the insertion of a dedicated flow meter in distribution networks, especially in newly built ones, entails an unwanted increase in both construction and installation costs.

Furthermore, the well-known flow meters, which are generally installed in transport networks, have a cost and provide a fiscal measurement with a level of accuracy that are even too high, especially for the flow measurement requirement in distribution networks. Not only that, the well-known flow meters generally require long straight sections of upstream and downstream piping to be installed, which sections are not always available in distribution networks.

WO2014/189395 describes a flow measurement system in which an additional and dedicated component is introduced inside the rotating ball valve of a ball valve, i.e. a calibrated measuring disc according to the ISO5167 standard. This calibrated disc creates, as the flow rate varies, a corresponding pressure drop between upstream and downstream; for each measuring disc there is therefore a known correlation between flow rate and pressure drop and, therefore, by measuring the latter it is possible to trace the flow rate. The solution of WO2014/189395 is not particularly satisfactory as it is only applicable to ball valves, and not to other types of valves, for example butterfly valves; furthermore, the measuring disc inevitably creates a reduction and/or obstruction of the gas passage section through the valve, effectively limiting the maximum capacity of the nominal diameter of the valve, and therefore also of the pipeline in which the valve is installed.

PURPOSES OF THE INVENTION

The purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that allows to overcome, at least in part, the aforementioned drawbacks present in traditional solutions.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that allows the interception and/or regulation of the fluid passing through it and, at the same time, allows a measurement of the speed and/or flow rate of the fluid passing through it.

Another aim of the invention is to propose a valve group that can be installed in an existing network, and this without requiring additional space or changing the geometry of the network itself.

Another aim of the invention is to propose a valve group that can be installed in any section of a fluid distribution network, in particular in correspondence with a final reduction group.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that avoids the need to modify the geometry of the network in which it is installed.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that can also function as a measuring instrument in a transport network.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that satisfies all the regulatory requirements in the matter.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that is structurally and functionally completely reliable.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that is an improvement and/or alternative to traditional ones.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that presents high standards of safety and operability.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a valve group that can be produced simply, quickly and at relatively low costs.

Another aim of the invention is to propose a valve group that presents an alternative characterisation, both in terms of construction and function, compared to traditional ones.

Another purpose of the invention is to propose a method for measuring the flow rate and/or velocity of a fluid, such as gas or liquid (e.g. water), flowing in an apparatus, preferably in a distribution apparatus for said fluid.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

All the objects mentioned herein, considered either individually or in any combination thereof, and others which will result from the following description are achieved, according to the invention, with a valve assembly as defined in claim 1.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The present invention is further clarified below in some of its preferred forms of practical embodiment reported for purely exemplary and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached tables of drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a fluid distribution apparatus in which at least one valve group according to the present invention is installed,

Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the valve group according to the invention, installed in a pipeline and in a condition of open shutter;

Figure 2B shows a perspective view of an enlarged detail of the valve assembly of Figure 2A, concerning the fluid flow pressure taps;

Figure 2C shows a perspective view of the valve assembly of Figure 2A; Figure 3A shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the valve assembly according to the invention, installed in a pipeline and in a condition of open shutter; Figure 3B shows a perspective view of an enlarged detail of the valve assembly of Figure 3A, concerning the pressure taps of the fluid flow;

Figure 3C shows a perspective view of the valve assembly of Figure 3A; Figure 4 shows a front view of the valve assembly according to the invention in its closed condition;

Figure 5 shows a front view of the valve assembly according to the invention in an open condition;

Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional front view of the valve assembly according to the invention with some components represented schematically;

Figure 7A shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of the valve assembly according to the invention in an open condition;

Figure 7B shows a front view of the valve assembly of Figure 7A in an open condition;

Figure 7C shows a front view of the valve assembly of Figure 7A in the closed condition;

Figure 7D shows the same view as Figure 7C without the unit provided with the first and second mouthpiece elements; and

Figure 7E shows the view of the valve group of Figure 7C according to a section plane parallel to the Y axis and passing through the group equipped with the first and second mouthpiece elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND OF SOME PREFERRED FORMS OF EMBODIMENT

The present invention relates to a valve assembly which has been identified as a whole with the reference number 1 in the attached figures.

Advantageously, the valve group 1 according to the invention is suitable for use and installation in gas transport and distribution networks, in particular in natural gas distribution networks or other gases produced in a decentralized manner (such as, for example, biomethane or hydrogen). The valve group in question may be advantageously used in distribution networks and/or in transport networks, as well as in fluid distribution devices such as, in particular, Final Reduction Groups (FRR).

The valve group according to the invention can be advantageously used to intercept and/or vary the flow of any fluid, be it a liquid, such as water, or a gas, such as natural gas or other gases produced in a decentralized manner (such as biomethane or hydrogen), or even a multiphase fluid.

Preferably, as anticipated above, the valve group 1 according to the invention is particularly but not limitedly suitable to be used and installed in a distribution apparatus 100, in particular in correspondence with the final reduction groups (GRF) provided in the gas distribution network.

Conveniently, valve group 1 is two-port/way, that is, with an inlet port 3 and an outlet port 4.

Conveniently, the valve group 1 according to the invention intercepts and/or regulates/partializes the flow of fluid that passes through the valve itself.

In particular, the valve group 1 comprises a valve body 2 in which a fixed opening 20 is defined and in which a shutter 5 is housed (i.e. mobile member of the valve group 1) which acts in correspondence with said fixed opening 20. In particular, the shutter 5 is moved with respect to said fixed opening 20 in such a way as to block the flow of fluid or in such a way as to define at least one passage 2? to allow and/or regulate/partialize the flow of fluid which passes through the valve group 1.

Suitably, in a possible and preferred embodiment, the valve group 1 may comprise a shut-off valve in which the shutter 5 is movable with respect to the fixed opening between a (single/unique) opening condition - preferably maximum/complete opening - and a closing condition to thus respectively and exclusively allow the passage or the stopping of the fluid. Suitably, therefore, the valve group 1 may comprise a two-position valve (on/off) and, preferably, may be a safety valve.

Suitably, in a possible and preferred embodiment, the valve group 1 may comprise a control valve in which the shutter 5 is movable with respect to the fixed opening 20 between a closed condition and a plurality of different opening conditions, in particular comprising a maximum opening condition and at least one intermediate opening condition, to thus define different areas for the passage sections 2? and vary in a controlled manner the flow of the fluid passing through the valve itself.

Suitably, the valve group 1 can be associated with a fluid inlet, for example defined by a section of pipe upstream T1, and with a fluid outlet, for example defined by a section of pipe downstream T2 of said valve group. Suitably, the inlet port 3 of the valve group 1 is intended to be fluidically connected to the section of pipe upstream T1, while the outlet port 4 of the valve group 1 is intended to be fluidically connected to the section of pipe downstream T2.

Preferably, the valve body 2 may be provided with mechanical connection means with the upstream pipe section T1 and with the downstream pipe section T2, for example with flanged portions 29 of the latter.

Conveniently, the connection of the valve body 2 of the valve group 1 with the upstream pipe sections T1 and downstream pipe sections T2 is watertight, thus preventing the fluid from leaking outwards.

Preferably, the valve body 2 has an annular shape - made of one or more pieces - and internally delimits the passage 2. Preferably, the valve body 2 is made of metal. Preferably, the valve body 2 can comprise internally and in correspondence with the fixed opening 20 a valve seat, preferably comprising a gasket or similar, which acts as a seat for the shutter 5 and ensures the seal of the fluid when it is in contact with the shutter 5.

Conveniently, the fixed opening 20 of the valve body 2, at which the shutter 5 acts, is orthogonal to an axis X which also corresponds to the direction of the fluid flow that passes through said fixed opening. Conveniently, the direction of the X axis corresponds and agrees with the direction in which the fluid passes through the valve unit 1 and, in particular, the fixed opening 20. Preferably, the X axis may correspond to or be parallel to the longitudinal development axis of the sections of pipe immediately upstream T1 and immediately downstream T2 intended to be connected respectively at the inlet and outlet of said valve unit 1.

Preferably, the fixed opening 20 has a substantially circular section. Preferably, the fixed opening 20 extends along the X axis between the input port 3 and the output port 4 and faces said ports. Preferably, the fixed opening 20, the input port 3 and the output port 4 are aligned with each other along the X axis.

Suitably, the shutter 5 which is housed inside the valve body 2 is operatively associated by means of at least one transmission member, preferably defined by a stem 10, to an actuator (not shown) configured to cause the movement of said shutter 5 between at least one open condition, in which it allows the flow of fluid through said at least one passage 2?, and a closed condition in which it blocks/intercepts the flow of fluid through the valve group 1.

Suitably, the stem 10 transmits motion from the actuator to the shutter. Suitably, the transmitted motion can be rotary, thus causing rotation of the shutter 5, or linear translation, thus causing translation of the shutter 5.

Preferably, said shutter 5 comprises at least one body 8 which is movable in rotation, and in particular is rotatable, with respect to the fixed opening 20 of the valve body 2. In particular, said body 8 is rotating, and in particular is rotatable, around a rotation axis Y which is orthogonal to the X axis.

In a possible and preferred embodiment, said body 8 has a substantially discoidal shape and is equipped with a first face 8? and a second face 8?? and is movable in rotation around a rotation axis Y which diametrically passes through said discoidal body and is orthogonal to X. Conveniently, in this case, the valve group 1 comprises a butterfly-type shutter.

Preferably, the shutter 5 is integral with the stem 10 which is mounted on the valve body 2 so as to be moved with respect to the latter, preferably so as to be rotated with respect to the valve body 2 around the Y axis. Suitably, the stem 10 diametrically passes through the shutter 5 and rotatably engages at its ends on the valve body 2 in correspondence with the fixed opening 20. Suitably, the stem 10 is operatively associated with actuation means configured to cause its rotation, and therefore of the shutter 5 integral with it, around the Y axis corresponding to the longitudinal development axis of the stem itself.

It is understood that the body 8 of the shutter 5 may have other shapes according to the knowledge available to the technician in the sector, for example it may have a substantially spherical or mushroom-shaped or conical shape.

The valve group 1 also comprises at least a first pressure tap 9? defined and/or mounted on said shutter 5 and at least a second pressure tap 9?? defined and/or mounted on said shutter 5.

Suitably, the valve group 1 comprises fluid connection means 16 of said first pressure tap 9' and said second pressure tap 9'' with measuring means 17, as better described below.

Advantageously, said connection means 16 comprise at least one fluid circuit 13 which is obtained inside said shutter 5 and/or inside the valve body 2 and/or inside the member - preferably defined by the stem 10 - which transmits motion to the shutter 5. Preferably, the fluid circuit 13 comprises one or more ducts 13' obtained inside the shutter 5 and/or inside the stem 10 and/or inside the valve body 2.

Conveniently, said first pressure tap 9? defines a total pressure tap, while said second pressure tap 9?? defines a static pressure tap. Preferably, said first pressure tap 9? and said second pressure tap 9?? ? both mounted and/or defined on the shutter 5 ? define respectively the total pressure tap and the static pressure tap of a Pitot tube.

Suitably, the first pressure tap 9? is mounted and/or defined on the shutter 5 in an area of the latter which, when the shutter itself is open, is a stagnation zone. Suitably, the second pressure tap 9? is mounted and/or defined on the shutter 5 in an area different from that of the first pressure tap 9? and in which the flow lines of the fluid motion field are not altered by the presence of said pressure taps.

The first pressure tap 9? and the second pressure tap 9?? are configured so that the axis V1 which emerges orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9? has a different/non-coincident direction or a coincident/parallel direction and a different direction with respect to the axis V2 which emerges orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9??.

In particular, in one possible embodiment (see fig. 2B), the axes V1 and V2 are parallel to each other and have opposite directions. In particular, in another possible embodiment (see fig. 3B), the axes V1 and V2 are perpendicular to each other.

Preferably, said first pressure tap 9? is mounted and/or defined on said shutter 5 so that, in an open condition of said shutter, and preferably in its maximum and/or only open condition, it is open and facing the direction of flow of the fluid through the fixed opening 20, to thus substantially frontally intercept the flow of said incoming fluid.

Preferably, said first pressure tap 9? is mounted and/or defined on said shutter 5 so that, in an open condition of said shutter, the axis V1 which emerges orthogonally from said first pressure tap 9? is substantially parallel, but with the opposite direction, to the axis X which orthogonally passes through the fixed opening 20 with a direction corresponding to that of the advancement of the fluid through the valve group 1.

As stated, the second pressure tap 9?? is defined and/or mounted on said shutter 5 so that, in the same opening condition of said shutter, the axis V2 which protrudes orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9?? defines an angle of approximately 90?-180? with the axis V1 which protrudes orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9?. Conveniently, in a possible embodiment (see fig. 2A-2C), the axis V2 which protrudes orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9?? is arranged so as to define an angle of 180? with respect to the axis V1 which protrudes orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9?. Conveniently, in another possible embodiment (see fig. 3A-3C), the axis V2 which protrudes orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9?? arranged so as to define an angle of 90? with respect to the V1 axis which emerges orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9?.

Preferably, the pressure ports 9?, 9?? are mounted and/or defined on the same face 8? of the shutter 5, however they could conveniently be mounted and/or defined on different or opposite faces of the shutter 5.

Preferably, the pressure taps 9? and 9?? are superimposed on each other along the Y direction/axis.

Advantageously, the shutter 5 is movable around the rotation axis Y between said closed condition (see fig. 4), in which said first face 8? and said second face 8?? are substantially transverse to the X axis and said open condition (see fig. 5) in which said first face 8? and said second face 8?? are substantially parallel to the X axis.

Advantageously, in a possible embodiment, the first pressure tap 9? and/or the second pressure tap 9?? are obtained in corresponding mouthpiece elements, respectively 6? or 6??, which are mechanically associated with said shutter 5, preferably they are mounted on the latter.

Preferably, the first pressure tap 9' comprises a first mouthpiece element 6' which is mechanically mounted on the shutter 5 and which is fluidically connected to the fluid circuit 13 which is obtained, at least in part, inside said shutter 5.

Preferably, the second pressure tap 9'' comprises a second mouthpiece element 6'' which is mechanically mounted on the shutter 5 and which is fluidically connected to the fluid circuit 13 which is obtained, at least in part, inside said shutter 5.

Preferably, each mouthpiece element 6? or 6?? comprises a tubular section 11 shaped like an ?L? which is open at one end so as to define said first pressure outlet 9? or said second pressure outlet 9??, while at the other end it is mechanically associated with said shutter 5. Preferably, in more detail, said tubular section 11 comprises a first part which extends in a projection starting from the first face 8? (i.e. perpendicularly to the axes V1 or V2) and a second part which extends parallel to said first face 8? (i.e.

parallel to the axes V1 or V2) and ends with the respective pressure tap 9? or 9??.

More specifically, in a preferred embodiment (see fig. 2A - 2C), a first mouthpiece element 6? is provided which, at its free end, defines the first pressure socket 9? and a second mouthpiece element 6?? which, at its free end, defines the second pressure socket 9??.

Advantageously, in a possible embodiment, the first pressure tap 9? and/or the second pressure tap 9?? are defined by corresponding holes 23 obtained on said shutter 5. Preferably, in the case of a disc-shaped shutter 5, said holes are obtained on one face of said disc.

More specifically, in a possible and preferred embodiment (see fig. 3A - 3C), a first mouthpiece element 6? is provided which, at its free end, defines the first pressure outlet 9?, while the second pressure outlet 9?? is defined by a hole 23 which is obtained directly on the body of said shutter 5.

Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the valve group 1 comprises a unit 50 comprising the first mouthpiece element 6' and the second mouthpiece element 6''; preferably, this group 50 can be defined by a single piece that can be mounted on the shutter 5.

Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the first pressure tap 9' and the second pressure tap 9' are configured so that the axis V1 which emerges orthogonally from the first pressure tap 9' develops along a direction parallel and with the same direction as the axis V2 which emerges orthogonally from the second pressure tap 9''. Conveniently, both pressure taps 9' and 9'' can be open and face the upstream area of the valve group 1.

Preferably, the second pressure tap 9'' includes a Venturi tube 40 configured to increase the velocity and lower the pressure of the fluid entering said second pressure tap 9'', thereby reducing the static pressure PS of said fluid.

In a further possible and preferred embodiment of the valve group (see fig. 7A - 7E), the second mouthpiece 6'' of the second pressure outlet 9'' comprises a Venturi tube 40. Preferably, the Venturi tube 40 is provided at the inlet of the second mouthpiece 6''. In particular, the second mouthpiece 6'' of the second pressure outlet 9'' comprises at least one portion configured as a Venturi tube 40 so as to locally increase the velocity of the fluid entering this outlet and lower the corresponding pressure, i.e. the static pressure PS. Preferably, the linear Venturi tube 40 of the second mouthpiece 6'' can have a reduction/narrowing of section starting from the inlet section 41 of the second mouthpiece 6''; more specifically, the section at the inlet 41 of the second mouthpiece 6'' is more wide (in particular wider than the inlet section of the first mouthpiece 6?) and then narrows/reduces in order to increase the velocity of the fluid.

This is advantageous as it allows to increase the pressure difference (i.e. the dynamic pressure ?dP?) between the total pressure PT of said fluid (corresponding to the pressure of the fluid taken at said first pressure tap 9') and the static pressure (PS) of said fluid (corresponding to the pressure of the fluid taken at said second pressure tap 9''); in particular, the Venturi tube 40 at the second pressure tap 9'' allows to reduce the static pressure (i.e. the static pressure P<S>) at said tap so as to increase said pressure difference (i.e. the dynamic pressure ?dP?), thus increasing the precision of the calculation of the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve assembly.

Preferably, the linear Venturi tube 40 sequentially comprises a first wider inlet section 41, a second intermediate narrowing (converging) section 42 and a third widening (diverging) outlet section 43 (see Fig. 7C). Preferably, the linear Venturi tube 40 is open at both ends and, in particular, the third outlet section 43 is open at its free end. In particular, when said shutter is open, the inlet 41 of the linear Venturi tube 40 is in fluid communication with the fluid inlet located upstream of the valve assembly, while the third section/outlet is in fluid communication with the outlet fluid located downstream of the valve assembly.

Preferably, the first mouthpiece element 6' is open at one end for the entry of fluid into the mouthpiece element itself; therefore, the first mouthpiece element 6' is configured so as to be in fluid communication only with a first inlet passage 45 of fluid circuit 13 obtained inside the shutter 5.

Preferably, the second mouthpiece 6'' is open at its two ends so that the incoming fluid can pass through it from one side to the other, while between the opposite ends - and more preferably downstream of the linear Venturi tube 40 - there is a passage for fluid communication with a second inlet passage 46 of the fluid circuit 13 obtained inside the shutter 5

Preferably, the second mouthpiece element 6'' comprising the Venturi tube 40 is defined in a single piece with the first mouthpiece element 6', so as to be mounted together on the same shutter 5, more preferably on the first face 8' of the body 8 of said shutter 5.

Preferably, the first mouthpiece element 6' and the second mounting element 6'' are superimposed on each other along the Y-direction/axis.

Furthermore, according to the invention, the valve assembly 1 comprises measuring means 17 operatively connected to said first pressure tap 9? and to said second pressure tap 9?? and configured to detect and/or determine at least one quantity to be used for calculating the velocity and/or flow rate Q of the fluid through the valve assembly 1.

Suitably, said measuring means 17 are configured to detect and/or determine at least one of the following quantities:

? the total pressure ?PT? of said fluid, and corresponding to the pressure of the fluid taken at said first pressure tap 9?, and the static pressure ?PS? of said fluid, and corresponding to the pressure of the fluid taken at said second pressure tap 9??, and/or

? the dynamic pressure ?dP? of the fluid as the differential pressure between the total pressure ?PT? of said fluid, and corresponding to the pressure of the fluid taken at said first pressure tap 9?, and the static pressure ?PS? of said fluid, and corresponding to the pressure of the fluid taken at said second pressure tap 9??, and/or

? a flow rate ?q? of the fluid resulting from said pressure difference between said total pressure and said static pressure and, in particular, corresponding to the flow rate of the fluid flowing in a by-pass circuit which receives the flow of the fluid taken at said first pressure tap 9? and reintroduced at said second pressure tap 9??, thus providing a signal representative of the flow rate ?q? of the flow resulting from the pressure difference between the first and second pressure taps.

Suitably, the valve group 1 comprises fluid connection means 16 between said first pressure tap 9?, said second pressure tap 9?? and said measuring means 17.

Advantageously, said connecting means 16 comprise at least one fluid circuit 13 which is obtained inside said shutter 5 and/or inside the valve body 2 and/or inside the organ - preferably defined by the stem 10 - which transmits motion to the shutter 5. Preferably, the fluid circuit 13 comprises one or more ducts 13 obtained inside the shutter 5 and/or inside the stem 10 and/or inside the valve body 2.

Advantageously, the fluid circuit 13 connects each pressure tap 9? or 9?? with a corresponding pressure transducer and/or with a differential pressure transducer.

Advantageously, the stem 10 extending along said rotation axis Y, mechanically connected to said shutter 5 and movable in rotation around said rotation axis Y, is equipped internally with at least one conduit 13? and 13?? which puts said first and second pressure presses 9?, 9?? into fluid communication with said measuring means 17.

Preferably, the stem 10 is equipped with two distinct ducts 13? and 13?? placed in fluid communication with the first pressure tap 9? and the second pressure tap 9?? respectively. Preferably, said two ducts 13? and 13?? are in fluid communication with the mouths 6? and 6?? respectively, if provided, or with the holes 23.

With particular reference to the attached figure 6, the valve group 1 also comprises a fixed structure 19 which is associated with the valve body 2. The fixed structure 19 comprises a sleeve 14 inside which the stem 10 is rotatably housed which is integral in rotation with the shutter 5.

In this way, the valve group 1 which is the object of the present invention, in addition to the function of intercepting and/or regulating the fluid flow, also allows the implementation of the detection and measurement of the speed and/or flow rate Q (as described in detail below) of the fluid which passes through the valve group and this is achieved substantially within the overall dimensions of the valve group itself, thus obviating the need to install an additional sensor (such as for example a dedicated flow meter) external to the valve group 1.

Therefore, valve group 1 can be used in existing and operational distribution systems to replace valve groups already present there, without the need to vary the geometry of said systems and without additional space requirements, thus allowing for - in addition to the function of intercepting and/or regulating the fluid flow - also a detection of the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid itself.

Suitably, the measuring means 17 comprise at least one pressure transducer which is operationally connected - and in particular is fluidically connected - to said first pressure tap 9? and to said second pressure tap 9??.

Preferably, a first pressure transducer may be provided which is operatively connected to the first pressure tap 9? to thereby provide a signal representative of the total fluid pressure.

Preferably, a second pressure transducer may be provided which is operatively connected to the second pressure tap 9?? to thereby provide a signal representative of the static pressure of the fluid.

Preferably, a differential pressure transducer may be provided which is operatively connected to the first 9? and the second pressure tap 9?? to thereby provide a signal representative of the dynamic pressure, i.e. the fluid pressure difference between the first and second pressure taps.

Preferably, said at least one pressure transducer is configured to generate an output corresponding electrical signal representative of the pressure of the fluid drawn at the first pressure tap 9? and the second pressure tap 9??, and/or their difference.

Preferably, said at least one pressure transducer comprises a flow meter - for example a flow meter - which is operatively mounted on a by-pass circuit that receives the flow taken from said first pressure tap 9? and reintroduced into said second pressure tap 9??, thereby providing a signal representative of the flow rate ?q? of the flow resulting from the pressure difference between the first and second pressure taps.

Preferably, said at least one transducer of the measuring means 17 is mounted externally with respect to the valve body 2, but it could also be mounted on the latter.

The valve assembly 1 also comprises an electronic processing unit 7 which is electronically - via cable or wireless - connected to the measuring means 17 and which is configured to determine the speed and/or flow rate Q of said fluid flowing through the valve assembly on the basis of the quantities detected and/or determined by said measuring means 17. In particular, the processing unit 7 is electronically connected to said at least one transducer and is configured to receive from them an electrical signal representative of said corresponding pressure values PT, Ps, dP and/or flow rate q. Preferably, the processing unit 7 is configured to determine the speed and/or flow rate Q of said fluid on the basis of the pressure values at the first pressure tap 9? and the second pressure tap 9??, and/or directly on the basis of their difference, and/or on the basis of the flow rate q of said fluid ? preferably circulating in a by-pass circuit - resulting from the pressure difference at the first pressure tap 9? and the second pressure tap 9??.

In this way, the valve group 1 is also suitable for determining the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid passing through the valve, quickly, simply and without requiring additional space.

Preferably, the measuring means 17 and the electronic processing unit 7 are mounted on the same electronic board 18. Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the measuring means 17 can be mounted on the valve body 2 and be connected via cable or wirelessly to the electronic processing unit 7.

Conveniently, the electronic processing unit 7 can be mounted on the valve body 2 or in proximity to it, or it can also be provided in a remote location with respect to the valve body 2.

Suitably, the electronic processing unit 7 comprises a microprocessor or a microcontroller or a processor/computer. Advantageously, the electronic processing unit 7 may be mounted externally on the valve body 2 or may be mounted externally and spaced apart from the valve body 2.

Conveniently, the same electronic unit that acts as the processing electronics unit 7 can also be configured to control the opening or closing movement of the shutter 5, or a separate and dedicated electronic unit could be provided for the shutter control.

Advantageously, the electronic processing unit 7 comprises at least one calculation module programmed to receive and process the electrical signals of the pressure transducers to thus calculate the aforementioned value of the speed and/or flow rate Q of said fluid flowing through the valve group 1.

Suitably, the electronic processing unit 7 and in particular its calculation module is configured to calculate the value of the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid flowing through at least one passage 2? of the valve group 1 on the basis of the total pressure value PT, detected at the first pressure tap 9? and the static pressure value Ps, detected at the second pressure tap 9??. Preferably, the electronic processing unit 7 and in particular its calculation module is configured to calculate the value of the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid flowing through the passage 2? of the valve group 1 on the basis of the difference dP of the total pressure value, detected at the first pressure tap 9? and the static pressure value, detected at the second pressure tap 9??.

In particular, the calculation module determines the fluid velocity according to the formula:

Where PT is the total pressure detected on the basis of what is drawn through the first pressure tap 9?, PS is the static pressure detected on the basis of what is drawn through the second pressure tap 9??, and ? is the density of the fluid flowing inside the valve body 1. From the value of the fluid velocity, the calculation module advantageously determines the flow rate value Q by multiplying this velocity value by the area of said at least one passage 2? through which the fluid flows. Conveniently, this calculation of the velocity and/or flow rate Q indirectly starting from the values of total and static pressure of the fluid exploits the principle known in itself by the term "Pitot tube".

Suitably, the electronic processing unit 7 and in particular its calculation module is configured to calculate the value of the velocity and/or flow rate Q of the fluid flowing through the passage 2? of the valve group 1 on the basis of the flow rate q of the fluid flow resulting from the pressure difference between the first and second pressure taps and which circulates in a by-pass circuit which receives the flow taken from said first pressure tap 9? and then reintroduced into said second pressure tap 9??.

Advantageously, the electronic processing unit 7 also comprises at least one communication module, which receives the speed and/or flow rate Q values and sends them to an external device, even remote, preferably for monitoring and/or control purposes.

Preferably, the valve assembly 1 may comprise a sensor (not shown) for detecting and determining the density of the fluid flowing through the valve. Preferably, such a density sensor may be mounted on the valve assembly 1, for example it may be mounted externally on the shutter 5 and/or inside the fluid circuit 13 and/or in the first 6' and/or in the second mouthpiece 6''.

Preferably, the valve assembly 1 may comprise a further sensor (not shown) for detecting and determining the temperature of the fluid flowing through the valve. Preferably, such a temperature sensor may be mounted on the valve assembly 1, for example it may be mounted externally on the shutter 5 and/or inside the fluid circuit 13 and/or in the first 6' and/or in the second mouthpiece 6''.

Preferably, said density sensor and/or said additional temperature sensor are electronically connected to the measuring means 17 and/or to the electronic processing unit 7 so as to calculate the velocity and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve assembly also considering the density and/or temperature of the fluid. Advantageously, this allows the velocity and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid to be calculated at the reference thermodynamic conditions.

In a further possible embodiment, said density sensor and/or said additional temperature sensor are mounted externally to the valve assembly 1, for example on the upstream pipe section T1 and/or on the downstream pipe section T2, and are electronically connected to the electronic processing unit 7 in order to calculate the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve assembly also considering the density and/or temperature of the fluid.

Preferably, the valve group 1 includes a display module (not shown in the attached figures), for example a display, to display the detected and/or calculated measurements.

Preferably, the valve group 1 includes a storage module (not shown in the attached figures), to thus store the detected and/or calculated measurements.

Advantageously, the valve group 1 includes a transmission or transceiver module (not shown in the attached figures), preferably of the wireless type, to remotely transmit the detected and/or calculated measurements.

Advantageously, the valve group 1 comprises at least one electrical power source for the components of the group itself and/or may comprise electrical connection means to an external source for the electrical power supply of said components.

Conveniently, no disk (and in particular no calibrated measuring disk) or further component is provided or mounted inside the shutter 5 or on it.

The present invention also relates to a fluid distribution apparatus 100 comprising at least one valve group 1 of the type described up to now in its essential and/or optional characteristics. All the characteristics described above with reference to the valve group 1 must be understood to equally also refer to the distribution apparatus 100 comprising at least one valve group 1.

Suitably, the apparatus 100 comprises at least one distribution line 101, which comprises a pipe in which the fluid flows, in particular combustible gas but it could also be a liquid, for example water.

The distribution line 101 extends between an inlet section 102 and an outlet section 103 in which at least one valve group 1 is preferably interposed. Preferably, the fluid entering the inlet section 102 is a high or medium pressure fluid and the fluid exiting the outlet section 103 is a low pressure fluid, or in any case at a lower pressure than the inlet pressure. For this purpose, the apparatus 100 preferably comprises at least one pressure reducing device 106 positioned to intercept the line 101, interposed between the inlet section 102 and the outlet section 103.

In accordance with the preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, the distribution line 101 comprises two branches 105, 105? in parallel with each other in which the fluid flows. In this way, it is possible to operate on the distribution apparatus, for example in the case of maintenance, by blocking one branch at a time without interrupting the supply of fluid to the users downstream of the apparatus.

Preferably, the apparatus 100 comprises at least one said pressure reducing device 106 for each branch 105, 105? and advantageously at least two devices 106 for each branch 105, 105?.

Suitably, the apparatus 100 also comprises at least one filter 107 placed to intercept the line 101 and preferably comprises two filters 107, each placed to intercept a corresponding branch 105, 105? preferably in proximity to the input section 102.

Preferably, the apparatus 100 comprises at least one of the aforementioned valve groups 1 of the type described above. Advantageously, the apparatus 100 can comprise at least one valve group 1 positioned to intercept each branch 105, 105?. Advantageously, the apparatus can comprise at least two valve groups 1, each positioned to intercept the corresponding branch 105, 105? in proximity to the inlet and/or outlet of said branch.

In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the attached figure 1, the apparatus comprises four valve groups 1, in which two valve groups 1 are placed to intercept the first branch 105, and two valve groups 1 are placed to intercept the second branch 105?. Advantageously, two valve groups are placed to intercept the corresponding branches 105, 105? near the entrance of said branches and two valve groups are placed to intercept the corresponding branches 105, 105? near the exit of said branches.

Preferably, the valve group 1 according to the invention can be used as a replacement for traditional butterfly valves provided in gas distribution networks, in particular in final reduction groups.

The present invention also relates to a method for measuring the speed and/or flow rate Q of a fluid flowing in an apparatus, preferably in a distribution apparatus for said fluid, characterised in that a valve group 1 is used as described above.

From what has been said it is clear that the valve group 1 according to the invention is particularly advantageous because:

? allows you to measure the speed and/or flow rate Q of the fluid and at the same time allows you to intercept and/or regulate the fluid flow;

? can be installed in any section of a gas distribution network, in particular in correspondence with the final reduction groups;

? it has a small footprint;

? there is an obvious need to modify the geometry of the distribution network for its installation.

In particular, unlike the solution of WO2014/189395 in which only the static pressures upstream and downstream of the calibrated measuring disc are measured, which can be inserted exclusively inside the ball valve shutter, in the solution according to the present invention, in addition to the second pressure tap which defines a static pressure tap, a first pressure tap is provided which instead defines a total pressure tap. Advantageously, moreover, in the solution according to the present invention, the pressure taps are mounted and/or defined directly on the shutter and, in particular, unlike the solution of WO2014/189395, the installation and use of a dedicated component is avoided, i.e. the calibrated measuring disc, which is mounted on the shutter and which, inevitably and undesirably, reduces and/or obstructs the fluid passage section through the valve, thus limiting the capacity of the valve. maximum of the nominal diameter of the valve and the installation pipe, as well as limiting its application to ball valves only.

The present invention has been illustrated and described in some preferred embodiments, but it is understood that executive variations may be made to them in practice, without however departing from the scope of protection of the present patent for industrial invention.

Claims (10)

1. Valve assembly (1) for a fluid, comprising a valve body (2) in which a fixed opening (20) is defined and comprising a shutter (5) which is actuated so as to be movable with respect to said fixed opening (20) between at least one opening condition, in which it defines at least one passage (2?) for the flow of said fluid through the valve assembly (1), and a closing condition in which it blocks the flow of fluid through the valve assembly (1), said valve assembly (1) being characterised in that it further comprises: ? at least one first pressure outlet (9?) defined and/or mounted on said shutter (5) so that, when said shutter (5) is in said at least one opening condition, it defines a total pressure outlet, ? at least one second pressure tap (9??) defined and/or mounted on said shutter (5) and configured to define a static pressure tap, ? measuring means (17) operatively connected to said first pressure tap (9?) and to said second pressure tap (9??) and configured to detect and/or determine at least one quantity to be used for the calculation of the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve group (1) and by the fact that the second pressure tap (9'') comprises a Venturi tube (40) configured to increase the velocity and lower the pressure of the fluid entering said second pressure tap (9''), thus reducing the static pressure (PS) of said fluid. 2. Valve group according to claim 1, characterised in that said measuring means (17) are configured to detect and/or determine at least one of the following quantities: ? the total pressure (PT) of said fluid and the static pressure (PS) of said fluid, and/or ? the pressure difference (dP) between said total pressure and said static pressure, and/or ? a flow rate (q) of said fluid resulting from said pressure difference between said total pressure and said static pressure. 3. Valve group (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that: ? the first pressure socket (9') comprises a first mouthpiece element (6') mechanically mounted on the shutter (5) and fluidically connected to a fluid circuit (13) which is obtained, at least in part, inside said shutter (5), and ? the second pressure tap (9'') comprises a second mouthpiece element (6'') mechanically mounted on the shutter (5) and fluidically connected to the fluid circuit (13) from which it is obtained, at least in part, inside said shutter (5), and by the fact that the second mouthpiece (6'') comprises a Venturi tube (40) configured to increase the velocity and lower the pressure of the fluid entering said second pressure tap (9''), thus reducing the static pressure (PS) of said fluid. 4. Valve group (1) according to the previous claim, characterised in that the second mouth element (6'') is open at its two ends so that the incoming fluid can pass through it from one side to the other and in that, between the opposite ends and downstream of the linear Venturi tube (40), a passage is provided for fluid communication with a second inlet passage (46) of the fluid circuit (13) obtained inside the shutter (5). 5. Valve group (1) according to claims 3 or 4, characterised in that the second mouthpiece element (6'') comprising the Venturi tube (40) is defined in a single piece with the first mouthpiece element (6') so as to be mounted together on the shutter (5). 6. Valve assembly (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises a sensor for detecting and determining the density of the fluid passing through the valve, said sensor being electronically connected to the measuring means (17) and/or to the electronic processing unit (7) so as to calculate the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve assembly also considering the density of the fluid as detected and determined by said sensor. 7. Valve assembly (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises a further sensor for detecting and determining the temperature of the fluid passing through the valve, said further sensor being electronically connected to the measuring means (17) and/or to the electronic processing unit (7) so as to calculate the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of the fluid through the valve assembly also considering the temperature of the fluid as detected and determined by said further sensor. 8. Valve group (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first pressure tap (9?) and the second pressure tap (9?) are configured so that the axis V1 which emerges orthogonally from the first pressure tap (9?) has a coincident/parallel direction and with the same direction with respect to the axis V2 which emerges orthogonally from the second pressure tap (9??). 9. Fluid distribution apparatus comprising: ? at least one distribution line (101) extending between an inlet section (102) and an outlet section (103); and characterised by the fact that it comprises at least one valve group (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims placed to intercept said at least one distribution line (101). 10. Method for measuring the speed and/or flow rate (Q) of a fluid flowing in an apparatus, preferably in a distribution apparatus of said fluid, characterised in that a valve group (1) is used according to one or more of claims 1 to 8.