Industrial valve hydraulic actuators are devices used to automate the operation of valves in various industrial processes. Here’s an overview of hydraulic actuators:

1. Functionality: Hydraulic actuators use hydraulic fluid to generate force or torque to operate the valve’s movement, providing the necessary power to open, close, or modulate the position of the valve’s closure element (such as a disc, ball, or plug). They are controlled remotely using hydraulic signals, making them suitable for applications where high force or torque output is required.

2. Types:

   • Rotary Hydraulic Actuators: Rotary actuators convert hydraulic pressure into rotary motion to operate quarter-turn valves, such as ball valves and butterfly valves. They typically provide high torque output and precise control over the valve’s position.
   • Linear Hydraulic Actuators: Linear actuators convert hydraulic pressure into linear motion to operate linear valves, such as gate valves and globe valves. They are often used in applications where linear motion is required to operate the valve’s closure element.
   • Helical Hydraulic Actuators: Helical actuators use a helical screw mechanism to convert hydraulic pressure into linear motion. They are suitable for linear valves and provide high force output and smooth operation.

3. Features:

   • Spring Return: Many hydraulic actuators include a spring return mechanism to automatically return the valve to a predetermined position (usually fully closed or fully open) in case of hydraulic pressure loss or emergency shutdown.
   • Double Acting: Double-acting actuators use hydraulic pressure to open and close the valve, providing bidirectional control. They are suitable for applications requiring precise control and modulation of flow.
   • Position Feedback: Some hydraulic actuators include position feedback mechanisms, such as linear transducers or rotary encoders, to provide feedback on the valve’s position.
   • Control Options: Hydraulic actuators can be controlled using various control options, including on/off control, modulating control, proportional control, or digital communication protocols such as 4-20 mA or HART.

4. Applications: Hydraulic actuators are used in a wide range of industries and applications, including oil and gas, petrochemical, chemical processing, water and wastewater treatment, power generation, and more. They are essential for controlling the flow of fluids in pipelines, tanks, and other process equipment.

5. Advantages:

   • High force or torque output
   • Precise control over valve position
   • Suitable for high-pressure applications
   • Can be operated remotely or automatically
   • Durable and reliable in harsh environments

6. Maintenance: Proper maintenance of hydraulic actuators is essential to ensure their continued reliability and performance. Maintenance tasks may include lubrication, inspection of hydraulic components, calibration, and repair or replacement of worn or damaged parts.

Industrial valve hydraulic actuators offer high force, precise control, and reliability in various industrial applications, improving productivity and safety. Proper selection, installation, and maintenance of hydraulic actuators are essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.