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Actuators, Valve Monitors, and Controls

Select Actuators
Actuators are used to operate valves automatically and/or remotely. Actuators typically use pneumatic, electric and hydraulic power to actuate a valve shaft. The force output of the actuator must be sufficient to overcome valve static friction and dynamic torque. Static friction is developed in the metal-to-metal surfaces, seats, and seals. Dynamic torque is that unbalanced force of the process acting on the plug, disc, or ball.

Select Air Filter Regulators, Exhaust Mufflers, Vents, and Speed Control Valves
Filter Regulators should be used whenever possible. They filter and regulate the supply pressure for pneumatic actuators and instruments. Instruments have small orifices that can become restricted and plugged by dirty air, moisture can corrode and short electrical components, and pneumatic equipment performance is optimum with regulated supply pressures. Solenoid valves with timers are ideal for blowing off regulator drain cocks.

Select Fieldbus Digital Network Devices - AS-Interface (ASi) Products
AS-Interface (AS-i) is a simple and reliable fieldbus networking system for connecting valve actuators, monitors, and controllers. AS-i is a low cost alternative to conventional point-to-point wiring. It's easy to design, install, and maintain. We offer a complete system solution for industrial automation and control applications.

Select I/P Transducers
I/P Transducers convert an electronic input signal to an output pneumatic signal that is directly proportional to the imputs. These low cost instruments are designed to be sensitive, rugged, and vibration resistant. Typically used for applications that require electronic pressure control of valve actuators, pneumatic valve positioners, air cylinders, dampers, regulators, and pumps.

Select Position Indicators, Limit Switches, and Monitors
Position Indicators provide visual, electronic, and digital indication of valve position. Limit Switches are typically activated by cams connected to the actuator shaft. When activated, they send discrete electrical signals to indicate actual valve position, usually confirming that a valve fully opened or closed operated remotely. In addition, these signals can be used as interlocks in a control system.

Select Valve Positioners
Positioners are used to position a valve based on a control signal. The signal can be pneumatic or electric. The positioner is attached to the valve stem. It compares the actual valve position to the input signal and sends the required output to the actuator to bring the valve to the correct position. The positioner can be analog or digital. Analog positioners use mechanical or electro-mechanical methods to position the valve. Digital (Smart) positioners use microprocessor technology. Smart positioners are preferred for accuracy, reliability, and ease of use.

Select Relay/Control Box
Motorized electric valve actuators need some type of switching device to control them. Relays are typically used to "switch" the valve open and closed based on a contact input. The input contact can come from a manual switch, control system and/or process sensor. Pre-packaged Relay Kits and Control Boxes simplify installation.

Select Solenoid Valves
Solenoid Valves use electromagnetic force to switch pressure ports. A spring holds the valve plug in position (usually closing a port). When electric current is applied to the coil of the solenoid valve, the spring opposed plug opens or switches ports within the valve. Pneumatic pressure is then allowed to load or exhaust the actuator cylinder. 3-way valves are used on spring-return actuators and 4-way valves are used on double acting actuators. Solenoid valves can be normally open (de-energized to load actuator) or normally closed (de-energized to vent actuator).

Select Timers
Timers are used to automatically turn on and off solenoid valves. These timers plug directly onto a solenoid valve and can be programmed to operate on various time cycles. Available to operated on various voltages and solenoid valve types.


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The Valve Shop, a division of Applied Valves & Controls, Inc.
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