Compressed air becomes obsolete

Louise Davis

New electromotive process valves (Types 3360 & 3361) from Bürkert are the company’s latest innovation, offering precision control without the need for compressed air. The new valves are designed as a complete unit and provide a robust, highly efficient solution suitable for process applications where reliability and precision are key factors.

The closed design forms a complete actuator and valve unit, with all of the components sourced from one manufacturer. As such the new products are available with either a globe valve (Type 3361) for the highest precision or an angle seat valve (Type 3360) for more general applications. In both cases the valve design is identical to the proven pneumatic valves that have provided reliable operation and excellent service life.

The actuator can be specified with an HMI display module that offers a rugged screen and buttons for configuring the valve settings. For a more basic application, the HMI can be omitted and the fundamental functions of the valve can be operated via a series of four DIP switches and two buttons located under a cover on the top of the valve.

An optional feature ensures a safe valve position is achieved in the event of a power failure, enabling processes to be halted with a minimum of disruption. The SAFEPOS energy pack allows the valve to be operated automatically to a predetermined position, from open to closed or anywhere in between. The energy pack, which has a nominal lifetime of around 10 years, is constantly monitored and its performance can be monitored through the network connection.

Externally, the control valve housing incorporates an illuminated LED ring which indicates the status and can be seen from any direction. In addition, there is a mechanical position indicator that shows the exact valve position independent of any electrical system and still works in the event of a power failure.

Communication with the new control valves is managed through the service connection which enables the COMMUNICATOR software to configure the device, apply fault diagnosis and update software. There are also several fieldbus options for networking, such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus and Profinet, which are provided through the fieldbus gateway.

The latest electromotive valves from Bürkert offer some of the quickest acting and precise control valves on the market, without the additional pipework and compressed air costs associated with pneumatically operated valves. The new range is also compatible with the ELEMENT valve housings allowing existing pneumatic systems to be converted to electromotive.

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