Low pressure piezoelectric valve design

In this paper a ball-type valve actuated by a piezoelectric bender is studied. In this valve different parameters are adjustable allowing different operational aspects. The design procedure is economic and easy to test. Some models are developed to allow an optimization of the structure for special requirements. A prototype has been manufactured to verify the models. The measurement procedure is exposed. This design does not allow high tank pressure but, on this basis, a structure where the pressure locks the ball (reverse structure) is possible. (paper)