Smith Flow Control's TorkDrive is a device that can be mounted to either the valve input handwheel or directly to the valve input shaft to safeguard the valve from excessive torque.
TorkDrive prevents valve damage, thus reducing the need for expensive plant shutdown and valve replacement (through over-torque) and provides vital information regarding site maintenance requirements.
Smith Flow Control's says TorkDrive can increase valve life as it prevents the operator from applying excessive force when closing the valve, protecting the valve seat. TorkDrive controls the torque applied when operating a valve, ensuring that the same force is used regardless of the strength of the operator.
TorkDrive can be incorporated into plant maintenance systems and schedules. It is set to a predetermined maximum torque and, if during the operation cycle of the valve, the operating torque increases above the maximum limit, the TorkDrive will slip, indicating an irregular valve condition. This will alert the operator to report the valve status to Site Maintenance, rather than continue to apply force to the valve.
TorkDrive weighs less than 4kg, despite an all-mechanical construction. It is a completely maintenance free device, made from 316 Stainless Steel and is suitable for oil refineries, power plants, paper mills, water plants and chemical processing facilities. It withstands temperatures from -56°C to +100°C, with a torque setting range from 80Nm–500Nm. It can be installed directly to manually operated valves, requiring torque monitoring over 80Nm (Ball, Gear, Gate and Globe, etc).
For more information, visit www.smithflowcontrol.com