Thermo-Fluid Analysis and Testing of a Pneumatic Port Cleaner

Abstract

This paper details a thermo-fluid model of the cylinder-piston-valve assembly of a pneumatic rodding boiler port cleaner. The relationship among the governing parameters is established. Model-predicted results are presented graphically and compared with experimental curves to verify the validity of the model. Small exit orifice areas offer a better cushioning effect. Numerical simulations show that the piston velocity increases with supply pressure and the weight of the piston, decreases with orifice area and is independent of the inclination angle of the device.