Actuators

Actuators are indispensable components in automation systems, controlling a variety of valves based on the specific application requirements. Designs range from pneumatic quarter turn rack and pinion to electric actuators with high ingress protection, to gas over oil, and compact linear actuators. The selection includes both spring-return and double-acting configurations to accommodate a wide range of operational needs. Certain types, such as scotch yoke pneumatic actuators, offer efficient torque conversion even at low air pressures. Across all types, safety considerations and specific torque requirements are key factors in selection, as the correct actuator boosts system efficiency, reduces manual operation, and ensures reliable functionality in diverse environments.

Types of Actuators:

1. Pneumatic Quarter Turn Rack & Pinion Actuators

These actuators utilize the mechanical concept of a rack and pinion to convert the linear motion of the piston into rotational motion. This makes them ideal for operating quarter-turn valves, such as butterfly, plug, or ball valves, as well as dampers. Their torque requirement remains relatively constant throughout the stroke, making them an economical choice for many applications.

2. Electric Actuators with High Ingress Protection

Highly resistant electric actuators with advanced ingress protection are designed to prevent any harmful dust or water from entering the actuator, ensuring reliable operation in a variety of environments. These actuators combine straightforward design with high performance, offering robust functionality and versatility.

3. Gas Over Oil Actuators

Gas Over Oil actuators use pressurized gas atop a hydraulic fluid reservoir to operate a valve. This unique design offers the advantages of both hydraulic and pneumatic actuators and is particularly useful in pipeline applications where the gas in the pipeline can be used as the actuator’s power source.

4. Compact Linear Actuators

Compact linear actuators deliver high performance with a simple, reliable design. They can handle on/off and control functions for both globe and wedge gate valves. These actuators come in spring-return and double-acting configurations and can be powered by either pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders.

5. Scotch Yoke Pneumatic Actuators

Scotch yoke pneumatic actuators are modular and versatile, available in both double-acting and spring-return configurations. Their design efficiently converts linear force to torque, providing high torque levels even at low air pressures.

Application Features:

• Can automate a wide range of valves, from butterfly, plug, or ball valves to dampers and globe and wedge gate valves.
• Diverse mechanisms including rack & pinion, electric, gas over oil, linear, and scotch yoke.
• High ingress protection on electric actuators prevents damage from dust or water.
• Gas over oil actuators combines the benefits of hydraulic and pneumatic systems, making them versatile for different applications.
• Compact linear actuators offer high performance and a simple, reliable design.
• Both spring-return and double-acting configurations are available.
• Suitable for a range of torque requirements.
• Modularity allows for flexibility and adaptation to various requirements.
• Safety considerations are key when selecting actuators for specific media and applications.
• Actuators provide a high level of automation, increasing system efficiency and reducing manpower requirements.