Design of a new pressure regulator with electronic control: Friction forces analysis

The paper investigates the friction forces developed between the sliding members of a proportional pressure regulator with a power stage consisting of a poppet-type pressure reducer driven by a piston, and a pilot stage with two MATRIX high frequency digital monostable 2-way valves controlled by the PWM technique. Carried out using a specially developed test bench, the investigation identified lubricants and seal geometries that minimize friction forces. Effects of different greases and seal geometries were evaluated and different solutions were compared.