Compact integrated Control Monitors for actuators

Edited by the Processingtalk editorial team Feb 27, 2006

The 007C Control Monitor incorporates the position monitoring switches and the pneumatic solenoid valves in a single enclosure that is fitted to the top of a quarter turn valve actuator

Solenoids and their associated control valves are often mounted directly to the pneumatic connections of an actuator.

The switchbox for position monitoring is then mounted separately, either to the output pinion on the top of a rotary actuator or to the yoke of a linear actuator.

This approach requires two cables, one for the switchbox and one for the solenoid.

The 007C Control Monitor incorporates the switches and the solenoid in a single enclosure that is fitted to the top of a quarter turn valve actuator or to the yoke of a linear actuator.

Available for approximately the same price as a separate switchbox and solenoid, the compact version of the 007C Control Monitor offers end users a number of benefits.

Client connection of switches and solenoid is quicker and more economical.

Only one multi-core cable is required to connect switches and solenoid to the control room and the pilot solenoid is protected from damage within a robust IP66 polyester resin coated enclosure.

The solenoid along with the microswitches, reed switches or proximity switches can be quickly accessed via just two cover screws and the slanting cover design permits easy access to the switch cams.

The unit includes a high flow control valve for single acting actuators.

To minimise overall dimensions the internal pilot solenoid is laid on its side so that a low profile cover can be fitted.

In addition the high capacity actuator control valve has been moved to the underside of the unit.

The compact 007C is fitted to the actuator using a stainless steel mounting kit which, on rotary actuators, is available with or without a plastic visual indicator.

The pneumatic connection to the actuator is short and direct.

As with all 007C units the wires to the switches and solenoid can pass via a single conduit.

This makes for a particularly neat installation.

Instructions for wiring to the terminals are permanently attached to the underside of the cover.

The solenoid is still located close to the actuator but in the 007C enclosure it is protected from impact.

(Positioning the solenoid close to the actuator is important as it gives rise to a faster response than if it were remotely mounted.

This is because with a remote panel mounted solenoid it takes longer for air to exhaust from the much longer run of interconnecting tubing.

If an actuator fails to operate correctly, identifying which solenoid may be faulty in a cabinet can also sometimes be a problem).

The compact 007C is available with a 3/2 valve for single acting actuators.

The connections are 0.25 inch BSP and the CV is 0.5.

Optional manual override is available on the internal pilot solenoid.

(Clients sometimes require a solenoid manual override feature during commissioning but are concerned that it could be located and operated by unauthorised personnel during normal plant operation.

When the manual override feature is on the solenoid, it is hidden within the enclosure, so valves can only be operated manually by trained technicians following the deliberate act of cover removal).

Versions for hazardous areas are ATEX certified II 2 GD EExia for use with both gas and dust hazards.

Further reductions in the number of cables running between the control room and the valves can be made via the use of remote I/O systems or fieldbus valve couplers.

Profibus and Foundation fieldbus compatible versions of the compact 007C use proximity switches that allow 2:1 wiring together with a low powered piezotronic solenoid valve.