Pneumatic Actuated Valve: Double-Acting and Spring Return

Actuated Valves

Pneumatic actuated valves use compressed air for fast, reliable open/close operation. Spring return (single-acting) types move the valve to its safe position when air or signal is lost, which is why they are standard in emergency shutdown and process safety applications.

ISO 5211NAMURFail-safeATEX option
Pneumatic actuated valve with positioner and handwheel

Overview

Rack and pinion actuators are compact and economical at low and medium torques. Scotch-yoke actuators, particularly in spring return applications, deliver high torque at the start of stroke to meet the breakaway torque of large ball and butterfly valves. The NAMUR interface allows direct mounting of the solenoid valve, limit switch box and positioner.

Sizing is based on the valve torque at maximum differential pressure plus a safety margin, at the minimum air supply pressure; for details, see our actuated valves page and our comparison of electric and pneumatic actuators.

Technical specifications

ActuatorRack and pinion, scotch-yoke; double-acting or spring return
Air supplyTypically 4–8 bar, dry and filtered air
AccessoriesNAMUR solenoid valve, limit switch box, smart positioner, filter regulator, speed control
ProtectionIP66/IP67; ATEX (2014/34/EU) options
ValvesBall, butterfly, plug, knife gate

Key features

  • Fast open/close operation
  • Fail-safe open or fail-safe closed position
  • NAMUR accessory integration
  • Supplied assembled and function-tested

Documentation and testing

On industrial projects the documentation package matters as much as the valve. We confirm the certificate and test scope for every line item at quotation stage:

  • EN 10204 3.1 material certificates for pressure-retaining and wetted parts, traceable by heat number
  • EN 10204 3.2 with third-party inspection, on request
  • Pressure test reports to API 598 or EN 12266-1: shell, seat and, where specified, gas tests
  • Fire-test certificates (API 607 / ISO 10497) for fire-safe type-tested designs
  • PMI reports for alloy and stainless materials
  • Dimensional, visual and coating inspection records
  • PED 2014/68/EU CE declaration for equipment within its scope
  • NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156 compliance statement for sour (H₂S) service

Technical datasheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What air pressure does a pneumatic actuator need?

Actuators are generally selected to operate within 4–8 bar. Sizing should be based on the lowest air pressure that can be guaranteed on site; otherwise the valve may not open at low pressure.

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