How should a CE-certified high-torque electric actuator be selected? The key is not simply choosing the largest torque. The actuator should be matched according to valve type, actual operating torque, operating frequency, power supply, control method, and field conditions. For large-diameter valves, high-pressure process pipelines, and applications requiring remote automation, USA VTON can evaluate the actuator configuration according to the actual operating conditions.
1. When Is a High-Torque Electric Actuator Required?
When a valve has a large size, operates under relatively high pressure, or develops greater resistance after long-term operation, a standard actuator may not provide sufficient driving torque.
The primary function of a high-torque electric actuator is to convert motor power into the mechanical torque required by the valve stem or shaft, allowing the valve to open, close, or perform a regulating action.
Therefore, selection should begin with the actual torque required by the valve rather than determining the actuator only from the nominal DN size.
2. Three Key Selection Factors
1. Determine the Drive Type According to the Valve
Different valves require different actuator output arrangements.
Butterfly and ball valves generally focus on rotational torque at the valve shaft, while gate and globe valves may involve different drive structures and travel requirements.
USA VTON selection should therefore begin with valve type, connection method, stem structure, and operating mode.
2. Match the Actual Operating Torque
Valve nominal size does not directly represent the required actuator torque.
Actual torque should be evaluated according to medium pressure, valve structure, sealing condition, operating temperature, and opening or closing conditions.
When higher driving torque is required, the actuator’s output torque range should be checked and an appropriate operating margin should be considered.
3. Confirm Power Supply and Control Method
Power requirements should be clearly defined, such as AC380V or AC220V. The control method should also be identified, including on-off control, modulating control, remote control, or automation-system integration.
If the actuator will be connected to a PLC, DCS, or another control system, feedback signals and communication requirements should be confirmed in advance.
3. Large-Diameter Pipeline Application at a Certain Location
At a certain location, large-diameter valves were used in an industrial pipeline system, and electric actuators were required for remote opening and closing.
For this type of application, USA VTON’s selection process begins with valve type, nominal size, pressure rating, and actual operating torque, followed by verification of actuator output torque, power supply, and control method.
Installation space, environmental protection requirements, and maintenance conditions should also be considered so that the actuator and valve form a compatible drive system.
4. What Should Be Considered About CE Certification?
When a user requests CE certification, the CE marking should not be treated simply as a product keyword.
During selection, attention can be given to whether the product has undergone conformity assessment according to applicable European Union legislation and harmonized standards, and whether relevant technical documentation, declaration of conformity, and product marking are available.
For a specific project, the applicable requirements should be confirmed according to product type, operating environment, and destination market.
5. Recommended Technical Information
When requesting a high-torque electric actuator, prepare:
- Valve type;
- Valve diameter;
- Valve pressure rating;
- Actual opening and closing torque;
- On-off or modulating requirement;
- Power supply;
- Control method;
- Opening and closing time;
- Output signal;
- Communication requirements;
- Environmental conditions;
- Mounting arrangement.
Conclusion
Selecting a CE-certified high-torque electric actuator is essentially a matter of matching valve torque, actuator output, power and control requirements, and field conditions.
USA VTON can organize the selection criteria according to the specific valve and operating conditions. For high-torque applications, it is advisable to provide the valve’s technical parameters and actual operating torque before determining the actuator configuration.
