Explosion proof actuation

Paul Boughton
Stefan Kolbe looks at the latest in actuation solutions.

Valve control installations supplied by Auma around the globe support automation of refineries, tank farms, extraction plants and pipelines.Approval and accreditation for both the company and its actuators from the world's leading oil and gas companies means that Auma has an impressive list of worldwide reference sites.

Supporting its work aiding automation in the petrochem industries, Auma has ensured that its multi-turn Generation.2 actuators and controls includes explosion proof capability. Offering Ex d IIC T4 and Ex de IIC T4 accreditation for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, SAEx multi-turn electric actuators designed to support oil, gas, chemical and other hazardous applications feature in the company's new range.

In 2010, backed by extensive research in conjunction with end customers and using its state-of-the-art development facilities in Germany, AUMA launched the Generation.2 range of electric actuators.

Retaining the adaptable advantages of Auma's modular design, and fully compatible with previous products, enhanced features of the Generation.2 series include extended lifetime and larger temperature range.

Superior corrosion protection at highest mechanical resistance is provided with a new coating and a version for modulating duty offers an extended speed range/improved modulating accuracy.[Page Break]

Improved handling

Development focus for AUMA's Generation.2 actuator range centred on improved handling and operation. An enlarged plug-in electrical connection gives improved connection facilities, a single motor plug/socket connection is incorporated and Auma's proven handwheel activation was optimised.

Supporting Auma's global offer, a multi lingual (33 language) user interface is available as an integral option as part of the actuator or via configuration and diagnostic Auma ToolSuite software available free of charge from the actuator manufacturer.

Integral controls for Generation.2 actuators are equipped with Bluetooth interfaces. With the integration of torque, temperature sensors, new intelligent diagnostic functions supply significant actuator status information such as torque characteristics which can be captured at any time. Actuator feedback signals can be classified according to NAMUR recommendation NE 107 and integrated into Asset Management systems.

Confirming oil and gas industry demand for Auma's actuation technology, a recent order for 150 SAExC explosion proof electric actuators has been placed by Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL). Increased capacity from 12 to 18.5 million metric tonnes per annum at the scheme is supported by the actuation technology, which aids valve operation at a new tank farm. The comprehensive range of standards met by the products contributed to Auma securing the order as ATEX, IECEx, CSA, FM and Indian: CCOE are supported.

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Stefan Kolbe is with AUMA Riester GmbH & Co KG, Muellheim, Germany. www.auma.com

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