New control units and positioners for pneumatic actuators

Phil Black - PII Editor 20/07/2012

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At ACHEMA 2012 trade fair in Frankfurt, Germany, KSB presented its new generation of multi-functional valve control units and positioners for pneumatic quarter-turn and linear actuators. The new AMTRONIC and SMARTRONIC incorporate functions ranging from simple open/close control of a pneumatic valve with open/closed position signaling to control tasks which are independently completed from a higher-level control station. Operators will enjoy the comforts of an all-in package consisting of valve, actuator and intelligent control unit or positioner, supplied fully parameterised and tested.

The VDI/VDE interface between positioner and actuator enables the positioner to be directly mounted to KSB’s own quarter-turn actuators of the Actair and Dynactair series. Apart from being straightforward this solution helps save on costs as no installation components or external pneumatic piping are required. It also significantly reduces potential causes of failure as well as the risk of an undesired loss of compressed air.

The compressed air supply, the electronic control boards and the electric connections are located in separate compartments, which safeguards the corresponding functions during commissioning/start-up and maintenance work. Protected by this separation of functions and by a polycarbonate housing the units are very robust and reliable. From outside the unit the pilot valves can actuated manually and the actuating times can be set.

KSB’s intelligent control units and positioners are extremely versatile and cover a large range of important functions. Options on offer:

Intelligent positioner with user-friendly graphic interface, or user-programmable via HART protocol
Compatible with Profibus DP or AS-i field buses
Auto-calibrating angle sensor without mechanical end stop
Large selection of mechanical limit switches or proximity sensors
Intrinsically safe design to ATEX II 1 G

Being compact and able to tackle complex control tasks, the new Amtronic and Smartronic units are the perfect match for nearly every application.

For more information contact KSB Aktiengesellschaft Tel: +49 6233 86 – 3702 Fax: +49 6233 86 – 3456 E-Mail: christoph.pauly@ksb.com

Web: www.ksb.com