Numerical Simulation and Experimental Validation of the Flow-Induced Excitation Characteristics of a Four-Way Reversing Valve

Abstract

In order to improve the low efficiency and malfunction caused by the FWRV (four-way reversing valve) when the working mode of the heat pump air conditioning system changes in refrigeration and heating, it is of great significance to study the structure of the FWRV. In this paper, the control equation of the sliding block movement process is constructed to simulate the reversing process of the FWRV in fluid mechanics, and a detailed study is carried out from the sliding block speed, sliding block acceleration, sliding block force, refrigerant leakage, and other aspects. Some studies indicate that structural improvement in the slider could greatly enhance the working performance of the FWRV. Increasing the height of the slider not only improves the pressure relief ability of the FWRV and prevents the slider from being damaged by high-pressure gas impact but also reduces the leakage of refrigerant during the directional process; when reducing the length of the slider, although it improves the pressure relief capacity of the FWRV, it also increases the amount of refrigerant leakage. The research results provide a theoretical basis and direction for designers to improve the capability of the FWRV.