Actuators and Positioners (ACV02)

This four individual lesson program trains participants in the function, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of common types of control valves.

Prerequisites

This lesson is designed for participants familiar with industrial process control, specifically single loop control and multiple loop control, as well as control valve body types and trim. A working knowledge of fluid flow characteristics, fluid flow measurement, and typical elements in process loops is recommended.

Description

This lesson trains participants to recognize, identify, and understand actuators and positioners as they relate to control valve trim. The parts and operation of diaphragm and piston actuators as well as pneumatic and electropneurnatic positioners are demonstrated.

Objectives

Describe the principles of pneumatic valve actuation. Identify diaphragm actuator parts. Describe actuator response. Describe the operation of piston actuators. Identify the advantages and limitations of pneumatic actuators. Describe electric actuator operation. Identify common actuator and positioner types. Identify positioner function. Describe principles of pneumatic positioner operation. Identify positioner parts. Describe how positioners can improve valve response time. Describe how positioners can change valve flow characteristics. Describe how positioners can change actuator response. Describe the selection factors that indicate the appropriate actuator or positioner for system applications. Match failsafe requirement with the appropriate actuator response. Identify external fail-safe devices used with piston actuators.