Actuators and Valves are the silent systematic superheroes behind the flow control of fluids.
An actuator valve or valve actuator (their names are interchangeable) acts as a control gateway, operating the opening and closing of a valve. Situated within the valve framework, the actuator control system, when activated, acts as the mechanism to open and close the valve. They are used in modern industrial systems, allowing for precise and automated fluid flow control within pipelines.
Unlike manual valves, actuator valves are operated by actuators, which convert electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic signals into mechanical motion. Firstly, the actuator receives a control signal. The actuator then converts this signal into mechanical motion, e.g. in an electric actuator, the motor rotates a shaft. This motion then adjusts the valve's disc or plug and causes it to open, close or modulate the valve. This process can be controlled automatically based on real-time data (such as flow rate or pressure) and regulates the flow of liquids or gases through pipelines.
There are many types of actuator valves, including manual, pneumatic, hydraulic, electric, thermal and spring-based valves. Our heavy-duty coil springs are a key component in these valves, which sit within the actuator and contribute to their mechanical motion
Manual actuator valves rely on human intervention to operate. These valves are controlled by quick and easy handwheels, levers, or gear mechanisms, making them simple, reliable, and ideal for systems where automation is not required. They are commonly used in applications where adjustments are not made frequently and precise control is not of high importance.
Pneumatic actuator valves use compressed air to control valve movement, which creates a fast and efficient operation. These valves are used in applications that require rapid cycling and in industries where air pressure is readily available. Pneumatic actuators are known for their reliability, low maintenance, and suitability for harsh environments.
Pneumatic rack and pinion actuators are a popular type of pneumatic actuator that convert the linear motion of a piston into rotational motion to operate a valve. They are compact, efficient, and provide consistent torque output, which makes them suitable for quarter-turn valves such as butterfly valves or ball valves.
Spring-return pneumatic actuators automatically return the valve to a set position (usually closed) when the air supply is lost. This fail-safe feature is used in safety-critical applications, ensuring the valve reverts to a safe state during a system failure.
Hydraulic actuator valves use pressurised liquid to control valve movement, providing high force and precision. They offer excellent control in high-pressure environments. These valves are ideal for heavy-duty applications requiring strong actuation, such as in oil and gas, marine, and industrial processes.
Electric motors drive electric actuator valves, offering precise and programmable control over valve position. They are suitable for applications requiring fine adjustments and automation, such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and water treatment plants. These actuators can be easily integrated with control systems for remote operation.
Thermal actuator valves operate based on temperature changes, using the expansion and contraction of materials to move the valve. These valves are used in systems where temperature control is essential, such as in heating and cooling applications. They are a passive and energy-efficient solution for temperature-sensitive operations.
Spring-based valves use a mechanical spring (compression, tension or torsion) to return the valve to a default position, usually closed, when the actuating force is removed. These valves provide a simple, fail-safe mechanism, ensuring that the valve reverts to a safe state during power or signal loss. They are commonly used in safety-critical applications.
Actuator valves are used across various industries such as motorsports, construction, transport, agriculture, renewable energy systems, oil, gas and petrochemicals, quarry and mining and robotics. Our heavy-duty springs are commonly behind the mechanics of the transportation and flow of fluids via valves and actuators.
In motorsports, springs are used in actuator valves to ensure rapid and reliable control of fluid systems such as fuel injection, coolant flow, and brake systems. These springs help maintain consistent pressure and quick response times, optimising performance under high-speed and high-stress conditions.
In construction, springs in actuator valves are used in heating, ventilation and cooling systems, water management, and hydraulic equipment. They ensure valves return to a safe position during a power loss and prevent potential damage and safety hazards on-site.
In the transport industry, heavy-duty springs control fuel, air, and hydraulic systems in vehicles. For example, they are used in hydraulic actuator valves that control an aeroplane's landing gear, flaps, and brakes. They provide the necessary mechanisms to automatically close or open valves during power failures or emergencies and act as a fail-safe option.
In rail systems, actuator valves equipped with springs are used in braking systems, air conditioning, and hydraulic controls. Heavy-duty springs ensure valves automatically return to a default position during power interruptions or system failures, improving levels of reliability and safety.
In agriculture, springs are used in actuator valves to control irrigation systems, pesticide delivery, and machinery hydraulics. They ensure valves automatically close when not in use, which prevents leaks, conserves resources, and improves efficiency.
In renewable energy systems, such as wind and solar power installations, springs are used in actuator valves to control fluid flow in cooling systems, hydraulics, and energy storage systems. For example, in wind turbines, they control the hydraulic fluid flow, which adjusts the pitch of the turbine blades.
This helps optimise the turbine's performance based on wind speed and conditions. These springs and actuators also enable maximum energy capture while protecting the blades from excessive loads during high winds.
Springs are used in actuators in the oil, gas, and power industries to ensure the safe operation of pressure control, flow management, and safety shutoff systems. For example, they are used in deep-sea applications to automatically close in the event of system failure, preventing the environment from contamination and equipment from being damaged. They are helpful in these subsea applications where manual intervention is impossible.
In quarry and mining operations, springs in actuator valves are used to control dust suppression systems, slurry management, and dewatering processes. They provide a reliable fail-safe mechanism in harsh terrain and rugged environments.
In robotics, springs within actuator valves are used to control pneumatic and hydraulic systems that power robotic arms, grippers, and other components. These springs allow precise movement and enable robots to perform tasks accurately while providing fail-safe protection during system malfunctions.
The actuator is the control mechanism, instructing the valve when to open and close. Actuators are commonly controlled by computer systems which respond to monitoring systems and control valves that dictate the flow requirements needed through the valve.
The valve is the physical element that opens and closes, managing the flow control process of the fluid in the line. Our springs commonly operate in spring return actuator valves, and are designed with high-quality materials to be fit for purpose.
The valve and the actuator work in synergy, with the valve facilitating how much volume of fluid passes through and the actuator telling the valve when and how to operate.
Join us on Tuesday, 3rd -Thursday, 5th of December, and explore the entire world of valve actuator technology under one roof at the Valve World Conference 2024.
Meet our expert designers and engineers at the conference in Düsseldorf and learn about our unique experience and leading-edge equipment for heavy-duty spring manufacturing.
Say hello and explore how we can help you develop high-quality actuator and valve spring component solutions. You can find us in Hall 1, booth 15.
Please feel free to get in touch. We would love to hear from you.
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