Smith Flow Control has announced the launch of FlexiDrive™, a new remote valve operating system for valves that are positioned in inaccessible locations or unsuitable for operation with conventional actuators while providing a way of operating valves from a safe distance. FlexiDrive™ is a 316 stainless steel, mechanical cable-drive system which can operate valves at distances up to 60m from the operating station and is capable of accommodating bends exceeding a total of 500º within those limits. Its mechanical design is suitable for valves positioned in hazardous locations or cumbersome rod linkages that are maintenance-intensive. FlexiDrive™ is suitable for use in the Oil and Gas industry and in onshore and offshore oil and gas installations allowing operation of valves from a distance to avoid hazardous or inaccessible areas. The FlexiDrive™ system is an assembly consisting of two stations connected by a linear drive cable. One station is supplied with an adaption kit that mounts directly onto the host valve input shaft, substituting the original hand wheel. The other is positioned and secured at a location where the operator can most efficiently and safely operate the valve. This operating station is available as standard on a 1:1 gearing ratio; maximum torque output from the operating station is 225Nm which can increase to 500Nm with 4:1 gearing.
