Here we discuss the aspects of pneumatic control valves that are better than electric control valves. Before that, we need to explain pneumatic control valves vs. electric control valves.

What is a Control Valve?

Control Valve is a device that is used to regulate or manipulate fluid flow. It surrenders all control over the fluid flow to the operator. The control valve can control temperature and pressure as well. As we can see, the control valve can monitor all phenomena of fluid flow. Control Valve can be operated by hydraulic pressure, pneumatic pressure, and electric motor.

Motorized Control Valve

The control valve used an electric motor as an actuator called a motorized control valve. There is a motor fitted over the valve with a stem connected to the valve plug or plunger that regulates the fluid flow inside the valve body. The electric motor acts as per receiving the signal from the controller. As per the command received from the controller the electric motor lifts the stem connected to the plunger inside the valve body and allows the fluid to flow out. The motorized control valves are available in 2 way and 3-way control valves.

Pneumatic Control Valve

Pneumatic control valves also work on the same basis as per the above we discussed. But in this control valve, an electric motorized actuator is replaced with a pneumatic actuator. The pneumatic actuated control valves are available in two types of pneumatic actuators, diaphragm, and cylinder. Both work on the same principle. The pneumatic control valve receives the signal from the controller and the diaphragm or cylinder lifts and releases the stem according to the signal.

Advantages of Pneumatic Control Valve over the Motorized Control Valve

• The pneumatic controls are faster and give a quick response to the operator in comparison to the Motorized Control valve.
• The electric motor has a complex mechanism with gears and takes more time compared to the pneumatic actuator.
• Pneumatic actuators provide controls that are very good for exact controls compared to motorized actuators.
• To control a heavy or large valve the motorized actuator will be bulky with a huge electricity load in comparison to the pneumatic actuator.

End

We discussed both actuators being used for control valves. In conclusion, pneumatic actuators are cheaper in comparison to others and require less maintenance in comparison to others.

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