Abstract:
Aerodynamic noise constitutes a critical challenge in vacuum interface valves operating within vacuum drainage systems, particularly in public facilities where excessive noise levels significantly compromise user comfort, necessitating effective noise mitigation strategies. This study focuses on a self-developed pinch-type vacuum interface valve, employing a hybrid methodology that integrates finite element analysis (FEA) with acoustic experimentation to systematically investigate noise generation mechanisms under varying operational parameters (valve opening degree, pressure differentials, and structural configurations). The numerical framework incorporates Proudman's broadband noise prediction model coupled with the FW-H equations solver in ANSYS Fluent to implement Lighthill's acoustic analogy. Experimental validation was achieved through a custom-built testing platform equipped with precision acoustic sensors and a LabVIEW-based data acquisition system. Key findings demonstrate: A 10.4% noise reduction occurs when valve opening increases from 20% to full aperture, attributed to the modification of vortex structures; pressure escalation from 0.035 MPa to 0.065 MPa induces monotonic elevation of sound pressure levels (SPL) across all frequency bands with vortical intensity augmentation; expanding the spool's horizontal end face distance from 33 mm to 50.5 mm achieves 5.1% noise attenuation. The strong concordance between simulation and experimental results validates the numerical model's accuracy and reliability, establishing a theoretical foundation for noise optimization in pinch-type vacuum interface valves while providing valuable insights for aeroacoustic control in analogous valve architectures.