Actuation refers to the process of converting energy into motion in various systems and devices. It’s a crucial component in a myriad of technologies, ranging from simple mechanisms to complex machinery.
Actuation is the mechanism of initiating and controlling movements in various systems, which could be mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic, among others. This concept is widely used in industries like robotics, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. It encompasses a wide range of components and techniques designed to convert various forms of energy into physical motion.
Pentair announced the launch of its new Biffi DCM2 diagnostic communication master for remote actuator control. Providing advanced, centralized monitoring, the Biffi DCM2 system helps plant operators to optimize performance by highlighting the critical assets requiring maintenance.
Automated Valve & Equipment Co. announced the acquisition of TechniQuip of Eastlake, Ohio. The company also welcomed Jack Ambrose and Tom McNamara on board.
Following formal pre-qualification and tender processes, Rotork UK has been awarded a new and exclusive valve actuator supply framework agreement with South East Water for a period of three years, with the option to extend to five years.
Centork announced the launch of a modular electric valve actuation system designed to deliver a highly reliable, economical and flexible solution for duties and applications of all descriptions in many industries.
Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin Corporation has released a new range of Parker Sporlan valves and controllers rated 140 bar for transcritical CO2 (R-744) high-pressure systems.
The product range is designed to satisfy equipment manufacturers’ control needs in the field of CO2 transcritical systems using a high-pressure flash tank.
An extensive application data sheet resource has been developed by SIPOS Aktorik. Designed to provide at-a-glance summaries of installations and technologies for the company’s electric actuators, the literature covers wide ranging case-study examples including ‘Avoiding Water Hammer’ (Carrum Ultrafiltration Plant), ‘Penstock Solar’ (ExxonMobil) and ‘Integrated Actuation’ (Callide B Power Station).
Following an independent inquiry’s recommendation, AUMA actuators have been selected to meet new Indian oil industry valve control standards. A customised electric actuator solution was designed that met the committee’s specifications: as a result, AUMA is the sole supplier of electric actuators for double block and bleed (DBB) valves in India.
The HPV 310 proportional directional valve, rated at 600lpm and 400bar, was developed by Brevini Fluid Powerin the second half of 2011, with prototype testing completing successfully in 2013.
Process industries often depend on high performance valve actuation in harsh environments. Most instrumentation positioners would fail quickly when subjected to these harsh environments. For example, smart positioners require internal electrical components which are extremely vulnerable at high temperatures and may prematurely fail when exposed.
Baker Hughes announced the commercial release of its Vault™ barrier valve, which provides an ISO-qualified barrier in the wellbore to help protect the lower completion and minimise costly fluid loss during well construction.
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.
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Automated Valve & Equipment Co. announced the acquisition of TechniQuip of Eastlake, Ohio. The company also welcomed Jack Ambrose and Tom McNamara on board.