Smith Flow Control has launched an enhanced version of its Flexi-Drive cable-driven remote valve operator. The new “Continuous Loop” version has the same versatility as the original model but can now transmit drive to valves through much shorter cable runs, even if a large number of handwheel turns is required. With the old system, the number of handwheel turns determined the length of the drive cable: the greater the number of turns, the longer the cable.
The new “Continuous Loop” system does away with this requirement by circulating the drive cable through a gear mechanism, eliminating the need for a long cable.
The new system consists of three elements: an operator station (consisting of a geared handwheel and mounting facility), a valve station actuator, and a unique, patented helix drive cable.
Due to the properties of the strong, flexible steel cable, turning the handwheel of the operator station simultaneously operates the valve actuator. The cable allows high valve operating torque to be transferred through walls, bulkheads, floors, tunnels and any other obstacles between the handwheel and the valve.
