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| One example of a rotary vane pneumatic damper drive Courtesy Rotork |
Vane actuators are widely used on quarter turn valves in industrial process automation, but their application also extends to dampers on all types of equipment and installations. Vane actuators are well suited for applications with operation requiring fully open or fully closed damper positions, although some do provide modulating service. A rotation of the actuator drive mechanism through a 90 degree arc, in combination with connecting linkage, quickly moves a damper between open and closed positions. A rotary vane actuator is well suited for driving this type of actuation, with its own 90 degree arc of movement.
A rotary vane actuator is specific to quarter turn opeartion. A pressure tight housing contains a movable vane which is sealed to the sides of the pressure chamber by means of a low friction gasket. Inlets and outlets to the chamber on opposing sides of the vane allow a controller to produce a pressure differential across the vane. The vane will move, in response to the pressure differential, in either direction. A shaft is connected to the vane and the vane acts like a lever to rotate the shaft as the vane is moved by fluid pressure. The torque produced by the actuator assembly is dependent upon the applied fluid pressure.
Hydraulic rotary vane actuators have the ability to handle large amounts of fluid and dynamic motions, exhibiting also qualities of durability and compactness. Pneumatic vane actuators use plant air pressure as the motive force. Both types generally provide fast operation, have few moving parts, and require little regular maintenance. A variety of typical automation accessories and options are available to customize a unit for a particular application.
More information is available from product specialists, with whom you should share your application requirements and challenges. Combining your process and facilities knowledge with their product application expertise will produce effective solutions.
