• 01276 855 847 Nationwide (UK)
  • info@bmscontrols.co.uk Email Us
  • Unit C1D, Fairoaks Airport Surrey, GU24 8HX

BMS Controls Articles

What is a Electric Control Valve

What is a Electric Control Valve

Introduction

An electric control valve is a type of automated device used to regulate the flow of liquids and gases in various industrial applications. An electric control valve works by using an electric current to open or close a port. This allows for precise, automated control of the flow of liquids and gases in pipelines, boilers, cooling systems, and other processes. In this post, we will discuss what an electric control valve is, how it works, and its many applications. We’ll also provide a few tips on how to choose the best electric control valve for your specific needs.

What is an Electric Control Valve?

An electric control valve is a type of valve that uses electrical signals to open and close. Electric control valves are used in a variety of industries, including the oil and gas, chemical, food and beverage, power generation, and water treatment industries. Electric control valves can be either on/off or modulating. On/off electric control valves are either fully open or fully closed, while modulating electric control valves can be opened or closed to varying degrees. Modulating electric control valves are typically used for more precise control over flow rates.

How do Electric Control Valves Work?

Electric control valves are automated valve assemblies that use an electric actuator to control the flow of fluids. The actuator is controlled by an electric signal that is sent from a controller. The controllers can be simple on/off devices or more sophisticated devices that use algorithms to control the flow of fluid. Electric control valves can be used to control the flow of water, air, steam, oil, and other fluids.

Types of Electric Control Valves

There are many different types of electric control valves that can be used for various applications. The most common type of electric control valve is the solenoid valve, which is often used to control the flow of fluids or gases in a system. Other common types of electric control valves include proportional valves and servo valves.

Advantages of Electric Control Valves

Electric control valves offer a number of advantages over traditional manual or pneumatic valves, including:

-Greater precision and repeatability: Electric control valves can be opened and closed much more precisely than manual or pneumatic valves, making them ideal for applications where precise control is required.

-Improved safety: Electric control valves eliminate the need for human intervention in potentially dangerous situations, such as when hazardous fluids are being controlled.

-Reduced maintenance: Electric control valves require less maintenance than manual or pneumatic valves, as there are no moving parts to wear out.

-Lower operating costs: Electric control valves are usually more energy-efficient than manual or pneumatic valves, resulting in lower operating costs.

Disadvantages of Electric Control Valves

While electric control valves offer many advantages, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. One potential issue is that electric control valves can be susceptible to electrical interference. This can happen if the electrical signal to the valve is disrupted or if the power supply to the valve is interrupted. Additionally, electric control valves can be sensitive to changes in voltage, which can lead to inaccurate control or even failure of the valve. Another thing to keep in mind is that electric control valves require a certain minimum pressure to operate properly, so they may not be suitable for all applications. Finally, electric control valves can be more expensive than other types of valves.

Conclusion

Electric control valves are an important component of many systems that require precise, automatic regulation. They provide reliable and accurate performance in a variety of applications, such as controlling the pressure or flow rate of liquids or gases. Electric control valves are also used to regulate temperature and can be found in industrial operations, manufacturing plants, power plants and other facilities. With their wide range of uses, electric control valves are a versatile tool that helps ensure consistent operation across various industries and processes.