Types of Control Valve Actuators: A Comprehensive Guide
Types of Control Valve Actuators: A Comprehensive Guide at BM Engineering Supplies
As industries demand more from their equipment, technology adapts to enhance uptime. Therefore, automation increases speed, safety, and efficiency.
At BM Engineering Supplies, we offer a variety of actuator types for control valves and on-off valves, including linear actuators for globe and diaphragm valves and quarter-turn actuators for our ball valves and butterfly valves. Additionally, we provide control and indication features, such as positioners, position feedback and Namur solenoid valves.
The same actuators can be used on both control valves and on-off valves. The term “control valve” refers to an automated valve with a modulating positioner. Actuated on-off valves, while they utilise the same type of actuators as control valves are only used to operate the valve fully on or off.
Using these actuators allows for remote operation of valves, delivering several key benefits:
- First, valves operate more accurately and synchronously.
- Second, multiple valves can be controlled simultaneously with minimal effort.
- Third, misuse or errors in operation are easier to avoid.
- Finally, remote or miniaturized processes can be executed effortlessly.
Understanding Control Valve Actuators
Control valve actuators automate valve operation, eliminating the need for manual control. Previously, workers operated valves physically. Now, actuators use electrics, pneumatics, or hydraulics to operate valves remotely.
This automation provides key advantages:
- For instance, workers no longer need to operate valves physically, allowing them to focus on more critical tasks.
- Additionally, remote actuation reduces workers’ exposure to dangerous environments, especially during rapid operation or with larger valves.
Types of Control Valve Actuators
Control valves fall into two main categories:
- Linear Valves: These valves open and close in a linear motion to control flow.
- Rotary Valves: In contrast, these valves use a rotating method, such as a ball or butterfly disc moving a quarter turn.
Our Control Valve Actuator Types
ADCA PV16
At BM Engineering, we stock a variety of pneumatic actuator types for control valves. Specifically, pneumatic actuators use pressure to position a valve, offering cost-effective automation. They are durable and easy to maintain.
We highly recommend the ADCA PA series for PV16 and PV25 control valves. This linear diaphragm-type pneumatic actuator features multi-spring technology with a rolling diaphragm. Consequently, this design ensures decreased hysteresis and excellent linearity. We offer both air-to-close and air-to-open versions for modulating and on/off services.
The most important thing to note when using a diaphragm-style actuator is the maximum operating pressure, which can often be lower than most instrument air supply pressures. For this reason, globe control valves from Valsteam ADCA come equipped with a P10 air filter/regulator to maintain the correct supply of air pressure to the actuator. If this is exceeded, the diaphragm will burst and render the valve inoperable until the diaphragm is replaced. Valsteam ADCA’s newer PA series (PA10, PA25, PA40, PA80) actuators have a maximum supply pressure of 6 bar, which is higher than the previous models. However, it is always recommended to check the manual of the model you are using, and if in doubt, consult BM Engineering!
Bürkert 8802 Series
Another top recommendation is the Bürkert 8802 series. These actuators feature ELEMENT technology, which effectively recycles air for extended valve longevity.
Conventional actuators introduce ambient air after spring decompression, which often leads to moisture-related corrosion. However, Bürkert’s ELEMENT system ensures complete sealing, thus preventing moisture ingress. Clean, dry air pressurizes the actuator and is recycled back into the spring chamber. This process significantly reduces humidity and prevents bacterial growth.
As a result, ELEMENT actuators have a significantly longer lifespan. They can withstand up to seven million cycles, which is at least three times the usual standard.
SOMAS Type ‘A’ Actuator
The SOMAS type ‘A’ actuator is designed for high performance in control and on/off applications. Its design is similar to a Scotch-Yoke actuator, which converts linear motion to rotational motion.
Furthermore, this actuator’s torque output matches the required torque for the full stroke of SOMAS valves. Low-friction seals provide low starting torque, effectively eliminating backlash and optimizing control performance.
Explore Our Offerings
At BM Engineering Supplies, we stock various control valve actuator types and products from top brands like Max-Air, Bürkert, SOMAS, and Kinetrol. Moreover, our in-house testing facilities support Exi and 4-20mA control valves.
In addition, we offer other actuated valve types upon request, including angle seat valves, globe valves, diaphragm valves, and electrically actuated valves. Whatever your requirements may be, we are confident in finding the right product for your industry.
For more information on our products, simply view our range on our website or contact us directly. Our knowledgeable team stands ready to provide honest advice and recommendations to help you make informed decisions for your business’s production needs.
Visit our online store at www.bmengineering.com/store
or contact BM Engineering Supplies today
at 0141 762 0657 or via email at sales@bmengieering.co.uk.
