Pneumatically Actuated Valve or Automated Valve Package

A common “package” used in the process industry is often referred to as an automated valve package. This package handles or manages the flow of product through the process system.

Main Components

The 4 main components of an automated package consist of the following:

• Process Valve – the “main” valve through which the product of the process flows. The process valve is available in many flow patterns, materials of construction, pressure ratings and application specific functional designs. The process valve handles the flow of materials through a process plant.
• Pneumatic Actuator – A pneumatically driven operator that provides the force to physically open and/or close the valve by converting linear motion into rotary motion. It is this rotary motion that drives the attached valve to its required position during normal operations. The most common actuators are driven by pressurized plant and instrumentation air.
• Solenoid Valve – An electro-magnetic operated air valve that controls the flow of instrument air into the pneumatic actuator. The flow of pressurized are is controlled by means of an electrical switch or solenoid coil and operator. The flow of pressurized air through the Solenoid Valve is directed to and from the pressure chambers of the pneumatic actuator to allow the actuator to perform its function.
• Valve Position Indicator  – An important device that is typically mounted to the top of the assembly package. This device has a three fold purpose as it
  1. provides position feedback to the control room through electrical means
  2. provide local visual feedback of valve position
  3. the certified enclosure of the device provides an electrical junction box useful for mounting the switches and the solenoid valve.