SPACE
Valves in space returning to Earth
From Apollo 13 to cutting-edge innovations , discover how magnetic actuation is revolutionising the way we manage leaks , emissions and fluid control both in space and here on
Earth .
By David Yakos and Bronson Pate , MagDrive Technologies
About the Authors David Yakos is an inventor , artist and mechanical engineer ; developing everything from leakfree magnetically activated valves that contain cryogenic helium for NASA to high tech toys & games . With over 15 years of magnetic valve research , development and application , his goal is to eliminate fugitive valve emissions in places where leaks are not an option . He is co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer of MagDrive Technologies .
Bronson Pate is the Global Vice President of Operations for MagDrive Technologies in Bozeman , Montana , USA . He has extensive experience dealing with regulatory and technical issues related to fugitive emission programs in numerous industries , especially refining , petrochemica , and chemical plants . With this experience , Bronson has gained in-depth knowledge of API 622 , API 624 , API 641 , TA-LUFT , and ISO 15848 . He has also led international business related to LDAR with China , Malaysia , Singapore , Argentina , Bolivia , Peru , Brazil , Mexico , and Europe .
Vaaalves in SPAAACE !
Valves play a pivotal role in space exploration , controlling the flow of fluids and gases within spacecraft and other orbital systems . These components are essential for managing life-support systems , propulsion and cryogenic fluid handling . However , they also pose significant challenges , as any malfunction or leak can lead to dire consequences . The Apollo 13 mission is a sobering example : a faulty valve in the oxygen tank system contributed to the explosion that nearly ended in disaster . Similarly , the SpaceX Dragon explosion in 2019 , where a faulty valve in the propulsion of the spacecraft system led to a catastrophic leak of propellant during a ground test . A single leak in a valve can result in the loss of critical fluids or gases , jeopardising a spacecraft ’ s operation and the lives of its crew . Addressing these vulnerabilities is vital , as the stakes in space are immeasurably higher than on Earth . Engineers have employed numerous testing protocols , simulating extreme conditions , rigorous temperature fluctuations and even testing in vacuum chambers to validate valve reliability . The consideration of advances in material science , such as the use of corrosion-resistant and temperatureresistant alloys , polymers and packaging , has significantly improved reliability . However , the traditional valve still has one fatal flaw : a dynamic valve stem that pierces the pressure boundary of the valve , leading to atmospheric pressure . Many attempts to monitor leaks at these potential leak paths have helped identify the problem but sometimes it is too late . Despite these advancements , the complexity of the valve systems continues to present a significant challenge and is often seen as the chink in the armour . But what if that opening , that wound , that dynamic seal that requires packing to squeeze around a valve stem could be removed entirely ? That is where magnetic valve actuation can completely eliminate the potential flow path to the outside world , allowing for a hermetically sealed valve . Through a magnetic coupling , a valve can be actuated through the solid wall of the valve body , resulting in no leak path ( or wound ).
The reality of “ closed-loop systems ” in space
Piping systems are often thought of as “ closed-loop systems ” to ensure resource conservation and operational efficiency . Flanges will be welded together to eliminate even static seals . However , the term ‘ closedloop ’ can be misleading , as traditional valves often leak into the atmosphere through their valve stems . This is especially true under extreme temperatures and pressures and with the handling of fluids , including liquid
36 Valve World February 2025 www . valve-world . net