Actuator valves, a significant component of industrial automation, help in controlling the flow of fluids, the amount of pressure as well as the direction of process fluids. Every oil and gas, chemical processing, food, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and even water treatment facilities have these valves to guarantee system stability and operational effectiveness. But, what is an actuator valve, and what is its operation?
In this article, we will explain how the actuator valve operating principle works and discuss the major types and their applications throughout multiple sectors. You will be able to choose the valve most suitable to your operational requirements by understanding how these valves work.
What Is an Actuator Valve and How Does It Work?
The actuator valve serves as the fusion of the actuator section and the valve body which can either be ball, butterfly, or gate valves. It receives control signals from the automation system or control panel, and the actuator transforms the package into mechanical movement which results in opening or adjusting the valve. Depending on the chosen type of actuator, it may be powered by electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic energy which drives the internal components of the valve stem, valve disc, or ball can be rotated opened, closed, or regulated to control the flow of liquids through the valve. In this way, the position of the valve can be precisely modulated and assists in regulating the flow rate, pressure, and direction of the fluid, further ensuring that the system operates stably and with high efficiency.
Common Types of Actuator Valves
Actuator valves are of different types depending on the function and use that they are required to perform. Some of the most frequently used actuator valves include the following:
| Valve Type | Key Features | Applications | Advantages |
| Manual | Manually operated, no external power needed | Water treatment, emergency shutoff | Simple, low cost, no power required |
| Electric | Uses electric motor for precise control | Water treatment, HVAC, chemical processing | Fast response, low maintenance, energy-efficient |
| Pneumatic | Uses compressed air for quick operation | Manufacturing, oil & gas, chemical processing | Fast actuation, safe for explosive areas |
| Hydraulic | Uses hydraulic fluid for high-force applications | Power plants, heavy machinery | High torque, precise control, heavy-duty |
| Spring-Actuated | Uses internal spring for fail-safe operation | Chemical plants, pipelines, emergency shutoff | No power needed, reliable, simple design |
Manually Operated
Manual valves are operated by the use of human effort and do not require any form of automation. These valves are not as popular in automated systems as they are still useful in some applications. The valve is operated by a handwheel, lever or screw to open or close it.
These valves are normally applied where there is no need for automatic operation or where the flow is infrequent. For instance, in water treatment plants, manual valves are employed for maintenance purposes where workers can regulate the flow of water during maintenance. Another application can be seen in emergency shut-off valves where manual operation is used in case of emergencies when the automated systems are not functional.
Manual valves are relatively cheaper, simple to install, operate and maintain and do not need any power supply as compared to other actuator valves and are suitable for less complex systems.
Electric Actuator Valve
Electric actuator valves are those valves that are operated by an electric actuator to open or close the valve. An electric motor is a device that is powered by an external electrical supply and is coupled to a control system. The motor operates in response to control signals and turns the valve stem or disc to change the position of the valve. This makes it possible to have very accurate control of the flow of the fluid through the valve.
These valves are suitable for use in applications where accuracy and automation are critical, especially in automated processes. They are widely employed in water treatment, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and chemical processing industries where flow control is critical.
The benefits of electric actuator valves include: fast operation, they require minimal maintenance and do not require the use of pneumatic or hydraulic power. They are energy efficient and can easily meet low power requirements, incorporated into control systems making them suitable for various uses and easily incorporated into control systems.
Pneumatic Actuator Valve
Pneumatic actuator valves are those valves that are operated by compressed air to open or close the valve, the most common type controlling valve movement. The compressed air gets into the pneumatic actuator and builds up pressure that in turn shifts the valve stem or disc to open or close the valve. The position of the actuator is regulated by air pressure signals, while the fine tuning is done by external controllers or limit switches.
These valves are ideal for applications that require fast opening and closing and high frequency, such as in the manufacturing line, oil and gas and chemical industries. They are ideal for use in situations where quick, binary valve control is required due to their ability to respond quickly to control signals.
The distinguishing feature of a pneumatic actuator valve is its high speed of actuation, built-in safety in explosive areas, and affordability. They are ideal for use in areas that are considered to be explosive or flammable since they do not use electricity to operate. Also, they have a plain structure and do not require much maintenance, which makes them suitable for constant use in industries.
Hydraulic Actuator Valve
Hydraulic actuator valves work by the use of hydraulic fluid, which is most often oil, to move the valve stem. This fluid pressure exerts a lot of force and the valve can open or close with a lot of accuracy. This type of actuator is ideal for use in applications that demand high force and torque such as in power plants, heavy industries or large industrial systems.
Hydraulic actuators excel in handling heavy loads and maintaining precise control of large valves. They are usually selected for their capacity to deliver high torque and ensure smooth and consistent valve operation in challenging conditions.
Spring-Actuated Valve
Spring-actuated valves operate on the basis of an internal spring which determines the position of the valve. These valves do not require electricity or compressed air to operate since the spring can open or close the valve. In addition, in the event of power failure or low pressure in the air supply system, the spring can restore the valve to a safe position which can be fully open or fully closed.
Such types of valves can be used in critical systems where the safety of a system is at risk, because during such eventualities, the valve can go back to a default safe position. They are typically applied in safety applications like chemical industries, gas pipelines, or any ES&D systems where reliability and self-operation are vital.
The main advantages include their compactness, no external power supply and self-starting which makes them ideal for use in areas where safety and intervention are of essence.
How to Select the Right Actuator Valve for Your Application
When choosing the actuator valve for your application, there are several factors that you should consider. Here are some of them:
Application Requirements:
First, identify the type of fluid that the actuator valve will control, such as gas, liquid, or steam; the flow rate, pressure, and temperature range, and the environment in which the valve will be used.
Type of Valve:
Some of the common types of valves include ball valves, butterfly valves, gate valves, globe valves, and needle valves. Each of these valves has its own strengths and weaknesses depending on the flow control, pressure, and space.
Actuation method:
When choosing an actuator valve, it is important to determine the types of valve actuators that are needed. Manual, pneumatic, electric, hydraulic actuators are available for selection depending on the application. For basic and infrequent operations, a manual actuator valve may be adequate. If your application demands fast response, then pneumatic actuator valves are the best for use. Electric actuator valves are more suitable for accurate and fine-tuning valve functions, especially if they are connected to sophisticated control systems. Hydraulic actuator valves are most appropriate for high pressure systems where high force is required.
If some sort of remote control is needed, then an electric or pneumatic actuator is more suitable because of flexibility.
Environmental conditions:
Think about the conditions in which the actuator valve will be used, such as high or low temperatures, corrosive or dangerous environments. For a high temperature or corrosive environment, choose materials that are suitable for such conditions.
For example, electric actuator valves are designed for clean and dry conditions and may require further protection in high temperature or high humidity conditions. Pneumatic actuator valves are suitable for use in explosive areas because they are non-electrical and have a relatively uncomplicated structure.
Budget:
Last but not least, the budget will determine the final decision. Determine the initial cost and the long-term expenses. There are two types of actuator valves: standard and high-end; the latter is more expensive but has more functions and a longer service life. It is important to remember that while the higher price may be better quality and durability, it does not mean that all applications are necessary to purchase the most expensive model.
Consult with an Expert:
If you are still in a dilemma on which actuator valve to go for, it is advisable to seek the services of a professional. Since selection is technical, a specialist will be in a position to advise you depending on your needs, and guide you on the best actuator to use given the system.
Through the analysis of these factors, you can be in a position to choose the most appropriate actuator valve for the intended application to meet the intended performance and reliability.
Why Choose Vincer for Your Actuator Valve Needs?
Vincer is a reputable manufacturer that offers dependable, accurate, and high-quality electric and pneumatic actuator valves. Our valves are made from high-quality materials and the best manufacturing processes, and can well perform in the harshest environments, ensuring exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
Our valves have fast response times and accurate flow control due to the incorporation of sophisticated drive systems to meet the different industrial requirements. Every valve passes through a quality check and testing to meet high performance, stability, and a 95% plus qualification rate.
Intended for energy saving, cost optimization, and environmental conservation, Vincer valves offer dependable and high-quality solutions for various industries, making customers trust the product.
If you are in need of valves for your industrial applications, contact Vincer now and get the best valves that will give you the best reliability and performance.