What is the working principle of the throttling manifold?

What is the working principle of the throttling manifold?
A throttling manifold is a commonly used fluid control device that adjusts fluid flow by changing the pressure drop and flow rate of the supply pipeline. In industrial production and experimental research, throttling manifolds play an important role. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the working principle of the throttling manifold.
A throttling manifold is composed of four parts: an inlet pipeline, a throttling device, an actuator, and an outlet pipeline. The inlet pipeline introduces the fluid into the throttling device, and after being regulated by the throttling device, the fluid flows through the actuator and is finally discharged. The throttling device usually consists of a set of small orifice holes, and the number, shape, and size of the orifice holes can be adjusted according to the needs.
The working principle of throttling manifold can be summarized into two aspects: pressure loss and flow rate control.

Firstly, there is pressure loss. When the fluid passes through the orifice, due to the small aperture, the flow channel suddenly narrows, causing an increase in fluid velocity and a decrease in pressure. According to Bernoulli's law, as the velocity of a fluid increases in a flow channel, its static pressure decreases, that is, its kinetic energy increases, while the total energy remains constant. Therefore, when the fluid passes through the orifice, the pressure decreases due to the increase in velocity, forming a pressure difference. This pressure difference is called pressure loss, and its magnitude is related to factors such as the shape and area of the orifice, the flow characteristics of the pipeline, and the properties of the fluid.
Next is flow rate control. By changing the shape and size of the orifice, the cross-sectional area through which the fluid passes can be controlled, thereby achieving flow regulation. For example, when the area of the orifice is small, the cross-sectional area through which the fluid passes decreases, resulting in an increase in flow velocity and a decrease in flow rate. On the contrary, when the area of the orifice is large, the flow velocity decreases and the flow rate increases. By adjusting the area of the throttle hole, the cross-sectional area through which the fluid passes can be controlled, thereby achieving control over the flow rate.
In addition, the throttling manifold also has the characteristic of energy loss. Due to the increase in velocity of the fluid passing through the orifice, the kinetic energy of the fluid increases, but this kinetic energy is often converted into thermal energy, resulting in an increase in the temperature of the fluid. This is due to the collision and friction of fluid molecules during a sudden throttling process, resulting in the generation of internal energy. Therefore, when using a throttling manifold, it is necessary to consider the issue of energy loss and take corresponding measures, such as reducing pressure drop and flow rate, improving the shape and material of the throttling orifice, etc.
At the same time, there are also some special operating conditions in the throttling manifold, such as pressure shock, stress concentration, and vibration. These issues may lead to safety hazards such as equipment rupture, leakage, and damage. Therefore, when designing and using throttling manifolds, it is necessary to fully consider these issues and take appropriate measures for protection and monitoring.
In short, the throttling manifold adjusts fluid flow by changing the shape and size of the throttling orifice. By controlling the pressure loss and flow rate caused by the orifice, fluid control and regulation can be achieved. At the same time, the throttling manifold also needs to consider energy loss and special operating conditions to ensure the safe operation and effective use of the equipment.