Cryogenic Hydraulically Actuated Isolation Valve

About this technology

Overview

Researchers at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center have developed a cryogenic isolation valve that utilizes the upstream line pressure of cryogenic fluids for actuation. Previously, the use of cryogenic fluids for actuation systems had been too difficult to control and resulted in unsafe operating conditions due to the cryogenic fluid used for actuation being separated from the main body of the valve. Once separated, the cryogenic fluid would heat too quickly and vaporize, resulting in high, volatile pressures. To avoid these issues, cryogenic fluid had historically been controlled and redirected using either electromechanical or pneumatic actuation systems. By using the upstream line pressure of the cryogenic fluid for actuation, NASA's cryogenic isolation valve eliminates the need for the complex support systems that are necessary with electromechanical and pneumatic actuation systems.