NEW REMOTE VALVE OPERATING SYSTEM OFFERS EFFICIENCY AND SAFETY

Phil Black - PII Editor 21/01/2008

74 1 minute read

Listen to this article

UK engineers Smith Flow Control (SFC) announce the launch of FlexiDrive, a new remote valve operating system for valves that are positioned in inaccessible locations or unsuitable for operation with conventional actuators and provides a convenient, user-friendly way of operating valves from a safe distance.

FlexiDrive is a 316 stainless steel, mechanical cable-drive system which can operate valves at distances up to 60 metres from the operating station and is capable of accommodating bends exceeding a total of 500 within those limits. Its mechanical design provides a versatile and cost-effective alternative to actuators for valves positioned in hazardous locations or cumbersome rod linkages that are maintenance-intensive.

FlexiDrive is valuable in the Oil and Gas industry, in onshore and offshore oil and gas installations allowing operation of valves from a distance to avoid hazardous or inaccessible areas. The system can be routed through bulkheads and walls, positioned above or below the operators working location and can be adapted to work even on submerged equipment. In addition, FlexiDrive can operate in temperatures from -30C up to 175C and is manufactured to IP65 as standard, although higher ratings are available to special order.

The FlexiDrive system is an assembly consisting of two stations connected by a unique patented linear drive cable. One station is supplied with an adaption kit that mounts directly onto the host valve input shaft, substituting the original hand wheel. The other is positioned and secured at a convenient location where the operator can most efficiently and safely operate the valve. This operating station is available as standard on a 1:1 gearing ratio; maximum torque output from the operating station is 225 Nm which can increase to 500Nm with 4:1 gearing. The operating station also incorporates a valve position indicator which provides a dial reading of the actual (distant) valve position.

FlexiDrive can be adjusted simply with different gearing ratios to deliver a wide range of torque capabilities to meet special or non-standard applications.

For more information contact Smith Flow Control Ltd, Witham, Essex

Tel: +44 (0) 1376 517901 Fax: +44 (0) 1376 518720

E-mail: sales@smithflowcontrol.com Web: www.smithflowcontrol.com