Revised standard for multi-turn valve actuator attachment
MSS publishes revised SP-102-2024 for standardizing multi-turn valve actuator attachment dimensions and performance.
Ingersoll Rand announces three bolt-on acquisitions
Ingersoll Rand acquires APSCO, Blutek, and UT Pumps for $135M, adding $50M+ revenue and expanding its industrial solutions portfolio.
AUMA wins actuator supply framework
A framework for the supply of electric actuators issued by services provider United Utilities has been won by AUMA Actuators.
Rotork introduces ethernet actuator
Rotork has introduced its fully integrated ethernet actuator, which is compatible with EtherNet/IP Modbus TCP and PROFINET protocols.
Kinitics Automation introduces valve actuators
Kinitics Automation introduces the KVA38 electric valve actuator with Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) technology for precision motion
RAYS cryogenic ball valve with high-performance actuator
RAYS delivered a batch of pneumatic ball valves to an undisclosed customer, to transport LNG along the Northern Sea route
AS-25 BS-60 direct mounted part-turn electric actuator
Tianjin Freya recently introduced the B+RS Actuator which can be used for standard on/off and modulating control.
Kinematics’ first shipment of ST series actuators
Kinematics launches the groundbreaking ST Series actuators, offering 20-50% more holding torque, precision, and efficiency for solar trackers.
Expanding the AB-QM family with AB-QM 4.0 CO6 Flexo
Danfoss introduces the AB-QM 4.0 CO6 Flexo, a prefab connection set enhancing efficiency in HVAC systems for radiant panels and chilled beams.
Festo introduces VZXA, angle seat valve
The new Festo VZXA modular pneumatically actuated angle seat valves offer easy installation, maintenance, and inventory management.
Actuation
The primary devices that carry out actuation are called actuators. These can be categorized as:
- Mechanical Actuators: Convert rotary motion to linear motion or vice versa, often using gears, rails, or screws.
- Electric Actuators: Utilize electric motors to generate motion, controlled by varying voltage, current, or electromagnetic fields.
- Hydraulic Actuators: Use the pressure of a liquid (usually oil) to induce motion, often to generate high forces in heavy machinery.
- Pneumatic Actuators: Operate using compressed air or gas to create motion, often found in industrial automation setups.
- Thermal or Magnetic Actuators: Leverage thermal expansion or magnetic fields to generate motion, usually in micro or nano-scale applications.
2. Control Systems
These systems are essential in regulating the functioning of actuators, often utilizing feedback loops to maintain precision and efficiency. They may include:
- Manual Controls: Simple interfaces like levers or switches to control actuators.
- Automatic Controls: Utilize sensors and microcontrollers to automatically control the actuation process.
- Software Interfaces: Complex control setups involving software platforms integrated with hardware components to enable sophisticated control strategies.
3. Power Sources
Different actuation systems require different power sources, which could range from electrical batteries, hydraulic pumps, or pneumatic compressors.
Applications
Actuation finds its application in various fields:
- Robotics: In the control of robotic arms, legs, or other appendages.
- Aerospace: Utilized in the functioning of various components like flaps, landing gear, and engines.
- Automotive: In control systems like power steering, braking systems, and throttle control.
- Industrial Machinery: In machines used for manufacturing, packaging, and other industrial processes.
- Healthcare: In devices like prosthetics and other healthcare equipment.
- Consumer Electronics: In gadgets and appliances, for functions like zooming in cameras or adjusting settings.
Future Trends
With advancements in technology, actuation systems are expected to become more sophisticated, incorporating features like:
- Internet of Things (IoT): Integration with IoT for smarter and more connected control systems.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Incorporating AI for predictive maintenance and automated control strategies.
- Miniaturization: Development of smaller and more compact actuators for use in micro and nano-scale applications.
Conclusion
Actuation is a dynamic and evolving field, playing a critical role in modern technology and industry. It encompasses a wide range of components, systems, and techniques that convert energy into physical motion, finding applications in a variety of sectors and continually evolving to incorporate new advancements and innovations.
