Across upstream, midstream and downstream oil and gas operations, valves perform critical functions in controlling the movement of liquids and gases. From pipelines and tank farms to platforms and refineries, reliable valve automation depends on selecting an actuator capable of delivering the required movement, torque and level of control.
Electric actuators provide a direct interface between the valve and the plant control system. Depending on the application, they can provide open-close operation, positioning or modulating control, allowing valves to respond accurately to process and operational requirements.
Variable-speed electric actuation provides greater control over valve movement for applications where operating speed is important. AUMA's explosion-proof SAVEx multi-turn actuator, combined with intelligent ACVExC 01.2 actuator controls, provides variable-speed operation for open-close and positioning duties.
Rather than operating at one fixed speed throughout the complete valve travel, the SAVEx can use programmable speed profiles. This allows valve movement to be adapted to the requirements of the process. AUMA identifies soft start and stop for gentle valve operation and the ability to avoid pressure surges through speed profiles among the functional capabilities of the SAVEx.
Different speed setpoints can also be defined for emergency and failure behaviour, while multiport valve applications can use variable speed to position up to 16 ports quickly and precisely. The actuator incorporates limit and torque sensing and is available with a range of position feedback options.
AUMA’s SAVEx combines variable-speed operation with explosion protection for oil and gas environments. The range provides torques from 10 Nm to 1,000 Nm and output speeds from 6 to 216 rpm, with IP68 enclosure protection and ATEX and IECEx explosion protection certifications.
Integration with the wider automation architecture is equally important. The SAVEx and ACVExC combination supports fieldbus control, programmable status signalling, process control, operating data logging and configurable behaviour in emergency situations or following communication loss.
Engineers specifying oil and gas valve automation, precision extends beyond reaching the correct end position. Controlling how the valve moves can be just as important as controlling where it stops. Variable-speed electric actuation provides engineers with greater flexibility to match valve movement to the hydraulic and operational requirements of the application.