Top Notch Actuator and Valve: Actuators and Control

Actuators and Parts

An actuator, by definition, is a mechanical device for moving or controlling a mechanism or system. Operated by some source of energy, it converts energy into motion. Consider the wheel and axle for example. Rotating the axle causes the wheel to move; and as a direct result, causing whatever is attached to the wheel to move as well.Energy created by hydraulic fluid, electric current or pneumatic pressure may be converted into motion using an actuator. The actuator in your HVAC unit is likely controlled by electric current. They are used most commonly for inflow-control valves, pumps, motors, relays, switches and positioning drives.

The two most common types of actuator are hydraulic and electro-servo. A hydraulic actuator forces hydraulic fluid through cylinders or motors and is controlled by control valves. Hydraulic machinery produces very high amounts of power and makes use of a variety of actuators in the process.A pneumatic actuator compresses air to use as its source of energy. They contain a piston, cylinder and valves. The piston is protected by the diaphragm, which keeps the compressed air in the upper portion of the cylinder. Air pressure pushes the diaphragm down, which moves the piston down as well.

Control Valves and Parts

Control valves are used to control the flow, pressure, temperature, or liquid level of various mechanisms. The valve may be partially opened or closed in order to maintain proper flow, pressure or temperature, as it does with your HVAC system. Control valves are generally opened or closed by using an electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic control system.Valve bodies vary depending on their intended use. Angle valves consist of cage-style and disk-stack style bodies. Globe valves may have single, double or triple-way bodies as well as port guided single-port, balanced-plug cage-guided or high-capacity cage-guided bodies. Rotary style bodies include butterfly, v-notch ball control, eccentric-disk control, eccentric-plug control valve bodies.Control valve parts for your HVAC unit should always be purchased from a certified dealer or other trusted source. Replacing valves or parts isn't always an easy job and should be handled by a professional with experience.