Sizing a pneumatic actuator can be a very important step in automation design. If an actuator is sized too small, it will be unable to operate the valve. If the actuator is sized too large you could be wasting money. Our valve experts use these simple steps in sizing a pneumatic actuator.
1. Information needed:
- The MINIMUM operating pressure.
- The torque required to operate the valve. For safety, always increase the torque to provide a safety factor. (torque x 1.25)
- Select which actuator you will be using. (Rack and Pinion, Scotch Yoke, Vane, Manual, etc.)
- The torque charts for the actuator being used. (For this explanation we will use the Rack and Pinion torque charts from Triac Actuators. The process is the same for all pneumatic actuators)
2. Based on your specific requirements, the fail position is very important in sizing an actuator. Each of the following three options: Double Acting, Fail Clockwise, or Fail Counter-Clockwise.
