An increasing dependence on the use of digital valve positioners has made numerous changes in the valve automation industry over the past decades of being relatively unchanged.

With the advancement of our technology these days that made the whole world shift enormously to digital platforms, the industry has no excuse to not pay attention to those changes that may surely affect the industry big time. As a result, many plants now have the opportunity to take full advantage of the benefits offered by digital valve automation.

For this, there are two basic types needed for control: open loop and closed loop. In both cases, it becomes possible to reduce the alignment time, minimize worker exposure to chemicals and ladders that pose risks, and prevent human error that can result in lost batches or environmental spills. With wireless valve automation, making valves automated during the project planning phase is much easier.

Valve automation is broken down into a number of categories, each with unique services. These include electric actuators, fluid power actuators, manual actuators, limit switches, positioners, network capabilities, and more. Based on the type of industry and work involved, the appropriate application is used.

Key Benefits

Among the most immediate benefits that customers are able to glean from digital valve automation is the capability for auto-calibration. Additionally, customers have the ability to capture data in a much easier manner by utilizing a microprocessor. Basic data captures includes ambient temperature, valve odometer, operating pressures, and the histogram. While this kind of data was previously available with analog products, transitioning to digital technology has made it possible to benefit from greater positioning feedback.

Numerous options are also provided to the operator interface. Bus systems and local keypads are perfect examples. With all of these options, the operator has the ability to make quick, accurate, and efficient changes to a variety of different parameters such as close time, open time, flow characteristics, and dead band.

Despite the fact that bus system technology is actually more advanced, many customers find that HART technology offers a greater number of benefits. They have a more robust and simple design, as well as device portability that proves to be extremely convenient for a number of industries.

Implementing a New Strategy

If you are giving serious thought to implementing a new valve automation strategy in your facility, it is important to perform a comparison and assess various factors to choose the right type of valve automation for your needs. With this, you will be able to determine what will and will not work within your specific environment. In addition to considering the capabilities needed in the short-term you also want to think about future needs.

By taking this approach, you will not be hit with additional expenses for features used down the line. Remember, while initial price is important, this should not be the primary decision-making factor since there is also the cost of ongoing maintenance to factor in.