Electrically actuated valves (also known as electric valves or motorized valves) are valves operated by an electric actuator rather than manual effort or other forms of automation (like pneumatic or hydraulic systems). These valves are used in various industrial, commercial, and residential applications where precision, automation, or remote control is required.
Key Components
- Valve Body: The mechanical part that controls the flow of a fluid (e.g., ball, butterfly, or globe valve).
- Electric Actuator: Converts electrical energy into mechanical motion to open, close, or modulate the valve.
- Control System: May include PLCs, relays, or direct wiring for on/off or proportional control.
Types of Electrically Actuated Valves
- On/Off Valves: Open or close completely—used in simple binary control systems.
- Modulating Valves: Can position between fully open and closed—used for flow control.
Valve Types Commonly Electrified
- Ball valves
- Butterfly valves
- Globe valves
- Gate valves
Electric Actuator Types
- Rotary Actuators: For turning motion (e.g., ball or butterfly valves).
- Linear Actuators: For straight-line motion (e.g., globe valves).
- Multi-turn Actuators: For valves that require multiple turns to open/close (e.g., gate valves).
Advantages
- Precise control and automation.
- Remote operation possible.
- Low operational noise.
- Good for applications without compressed air or hydraulic systems.
Disadvantages
- Slower operation than pneumatic/hydraulic systems.
- Can be affected by power outages (unless backup is provided).
- Generally more expensive than manual valves.
Applications
- HVAC systems
- Water treatment plants
- Oil and gas pipelines
- Food and beverage production
- Pharmaceutical and chemical processing
- Building automation systems