Journal of Zhejiang University

Journal of Zhejiang University SCIENCE A

Accepted manuscript available online (unedited version)

Flow analysis of asymmetric clearance and optimization of pressure equalization grooves to mitigate hydraulic spool valve sticking

Author(s): Zhen-hao LIN^1, ², Yu-wei WANG¹, Zhe-hui MA¹, Tian-xiao ZHANG¹, Zhi-jiang JIN^1, ³, Jin-yuan QIAN^1, ⁴
Affiliation(s): ¹Institute of Advanced Equipment, College of Energy Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China ²Hangzhou Valvever Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd, Hangzhou 310058, China ³Institute of Wenzhou, Zhejiang University, Wenzhou 325036, China ⁴State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
Corresponding email(s): Jin-yuan QIAN, qianjy@zju.edu.cn
Key Words: Spool valve; Flow characteristics; Multi-objective optimization; Solid-liquid two phase flow; Aerospace hydraulic systems; Valve sticking

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Zhen-hao LIN^1,², Yu-wei WANG¹, Zhe-hui MA¹, Tian-xiao ZHANG¹, Zhi-jiang JIN^1,³, Jin-yuan QIAN^1,⁴. Flow analysis of asymmetric clearance and optimization of pressure equalization grooves to mitigate hydraulic spool valve sticking[J]. Journal of Zhejiang University Science A,in press.Frontiers of Information Technology & Electronic Engineering,in press.https://doi.org/10.1631/jzus.A2500604

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author="Zhen-hao LIN^1,², Yu-wei WANG¹, Zhe-hui MA¹, Tian-xiao ZHANG¹, Zhi-jiang JIN^1,³, Jin-yuan QIAN^1,⁴",
journal="Journal of Zhejiang University Science A",
year="in press",
publisher="Zhejiang University Press & Springer",
doi="https://doi.org/10.1631/jzus.A2500604"
}

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Abstract
Chinese Summary
Academic Network
Reviewer Comment

Abstract: The hydraulic spool valve is a critical control component in aerospace hydraulic systems. However, complex working environments can cause the valve core to become stuck, thus severely restricting the performance of such valves. This in turn can hinder precise control of hydraulic oil, reduce the stability of the hydraulic system, and lead to serious accidents in aerospace systems. The unbalanced radial force and solid particle intrusion into the fit clearance are the main factors behind this sticking. To better understand these issues, in this study we simulated the fluid dynamics and particle behavior within the clearance of the valve core, and analyzed the effects of inclination angle, clearance size, particle diameter, and pressure equalization groove (PEG) properties. The mechanism behind valve core sticking was revealed, and it was found that the PEG has an inhibitory effect on the unbalanced radial force and the particle intrusion. Furthermore, we propose an optimized structure for a triangular pressure equalization groove with an arc-shaped bottom (Tri-PEG). The structural parameters were determined through multi-objective optimization, with the objectives of minimizing the leakage at the clearance and maximizing the particle volume fraction at the bottom of the Tri-PEG. The optimal parameters were an arc-shaped radius of 0.2 mm, a groove depth of 0.392 mm, and a groove width of 0.215 mm. Comparing the Tri-PEG with a rectangular PEG, the leakage was reduced by 12%, and the particle concentration was increased by 6%. Overall, these findings serve as an important reference for alleviating spool valve sticking.

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On-line Access: 2026-02-02

Received: 2025-11-17

Revision Accepted: 2026-01-07

Crosschecked: 0000-00-00

Cited: 0

Clicked: 567

Citations: Bibtex RefMan EndNote GB/T7714

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