What is the difference between nozzle (or a ventury) and flow control valve?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the differences between nozzles (or venturis) and flow control valves, particularly in how they affect fluid flow characteristics such as velocity, pressure, and flow rate. The scope includes theoretical aspects of fluid dynamics and practical implications of these devices in fluid control.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that both nozzles and flow control valves reduce the flow cross-section area, but they argue that nozzles maintain flow rate while increasing velocity and reducing pressure, whereas flow control valves result in a change in flow rate.
  • Another participant claims that for identical flow area and coefficient, both devices behave similarly, suggesting that reducing the flow area will equally reduce mass flow through either device.
  • A participant seeks clarification on how the flow area differs between the two cases, specifically regarding flow rate reduction versus velocity increase while maintaining flow rate.
  • One participant explains that nozzles aim to preserve total energy with gradual cross-section reduction to minimize friction and turbulence, converting potential energy into kinetic energy, while control valves do not prioritize this gradual reduction.
  • Another participant reiterates that the sudden reduction in cross-sectional area in flow control valves contributes to a reduction in flow rate.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the operational principles of nozzles and flow control valves, with some asserting that they function differently in terms of flow rate and energy preservation, while others argue for their similarity under certain conditions. The discussion remains unresolved with competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding fluid incompressibility and the specific conditions under which the devices operate, which may not be universally applicable. The discussion also lacks definitive mathematical formulations to support the claims made.

Mohankpvk
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In both the cases, the flow cross section area of the pipe is reduced.But in case of nozzles the velocity increases,pressure reduces and the flow rate is maintained.But in case of flow control valve, flow rate changes.(Assuming the fluid to be incompressible) Why is there a difference between the two cases?
 
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For any identical flow area and coefficient both the nozzle/orifice and the control valve act exactly in the same manner, reducing the size of the flow area in either case equally reduces the mass flow through the device.
 
JBA said:
For any identical flow area and coefficient both the nozzle/orifice and the control valve act exactly in the same manner, reducing the size of the flow area in either case equally reduces the mass flow through the device.
Could you please explain how the flow area differs for the case of flow rate reduction from the case where velocity increases(flow rate maintained the same)?
Please suggest some books or other sources from which I can understand this.
 
I may misunderstand your question, but:

A nozzle 'attempts' to preserve total energy by reducing cross-section gradually, with a minimum of friction/turbulence. Much of the potential energy due to pressure is converted to kinetic energy (velocity). Control valves reduce cross-section, but make no attempt to be gentle.
 
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Dullard said:
I may misunderstand your question, but:

A nozzle 'attempts' to preserve total energy by reducing cross-section gradually, with a minimum of friction/turbulence. Much of the potential energy due to pressure is converted to kinetic energy (velocity). Control valves reduce cross-section, but make no attempt to be gentle.
Nice answer.So, in case of flow control valves, sudden reduction in cross sectional area is a reason for reduction in flow rate.
 

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