Modular Actuator Design

Faster Installation. Safer Access. Greater Flexibility for Valve Automation

AUMA Actuators Limited delivers modular electric actuators designed to improve installation speed, operational accessibility, and long-term flexibility across valve automation projects.

AUMA’s modular approach enables parallel installation, reduced downtime, and simplified commissioning across water, energy, and process industries by separating electrical, control, and mechanical components.

Modularity allows actuator controls to be positioned where operators can safely and easily access them - reducing the need to work at height or enter confined spaces during operation, inspection, and maintenance.

Water treatment plants
Power generation facilities
Industrial process systems
Oil and gas applications

Why Modularity Matters in Actuator Design

Traditional actuators are built as single assembled units, often creating challenges such as:

Complex and time-consuming installation

Increased lifting and handling requirements

Restricted mechanical installation options

Limited flexibility on site

Key Benefits

Reduced Lead Time

Modularity allows for greater stock availability and reduced lead times.

Improved Site Safety

Smaller, lighter components reduce manual handling requirements and minimise lifting risk during installation.

Human Factor Engineering

Flexible orientation and configurable layouts improve long-term accessibility, usability, and operator safety.

Reduced Project Costs

Shorter installation time, simplified wiring, and reduced access requirements help lower labour and commissioning costs.

Modular Design for Efficient Installation

Each AUMA actuator consists of three core modules:

Electrical connector

Plug-and-socket interface for fast, simplified wiring

Controls

Integrated controls, monitoring, diagnostics, and communication systems

Main actuator body

includes motor, gearbox, mounting interface, and handwheel

Improved Access in Challenging Environments

AUMA’s modular approach allows the control and electrical components to be mounted separately from the actuator gearbox and valve assembly. This creates significant operational and maintenance advantages where valves are located:

In confined spaces

At height

In flooded chambers

In hazardous or difficult-to-access areas

Human Factor Engineering for Long-Term Operation

Flexible actuator configuration is not simply about installation convenience - it’s also an important part of long-term operational usability.

AUMA actuators can be configured to support human factor engineering principles, helping ensure controls remain intuitive, accessible, and safe throughout the life of the asset.

Configuration capabilities include:

Up to 64 possible mounting configurations

Four rotational positions for major components

Display orientation configured for correct operator viewing angle

Handwheel positioning optimised for safe and comfortable operation

Factory pre-configuration to match site installation requirements

Adaptation to pipework layouts and access constraints

Remote Mounting for Hazardous or Inaccessible Areas

AUMA actuators can be supplied with a pre-wired umbilical connection for environments with limited access or challenging conditions. This enables the control unit to be mounted up to 100 metres away from the actuator.

Safe operation in hazardous or submerged locations

Improved accessibility for operators

Simplified maintenance and inspection

Reduced downtime during servicing

Integrated Control for Modern Automation Systems

AUMA’s modular design ensures actuators can be configured to integrate seamlessly with modern automation architectures. Control options include:

Control options include:

Local actuator-based control

PLC-controlled systems

Distributed control systems (DCS)

Modbus, Profibus and Ethernet-based communications

Freely available AUMA software and smartphone apps for configuration diagnostics, and commissioning support

Built on Proven Actuator Engineering

AUMA modular actuators combine robust mechanical engineering with advanced automation capability, developed by AUMA Riester GmbH & Co. KG. The result is reliable long-term performance across critical infrastructure applications worldwide.