In reviewing energy requirements first, a typical remote valve actuator site will have some sort of communication, whether it's licensed radio, cellular, or satellite. This same site will likely have a small PLC or SCADA system. In the event of a power failure, several days of UPS backup power is desirable – enough time. The instantaneous power required by a valve actuator depends on the application. Electric motors from less than 1 horsepower to several 10's of horsepower are. The power requirements of a remote actuator system are an entirely different matter; especially where standard AC motors drive the actuator. AC motors, whether. Depending on the size of the valve and the stroke time required, there are alternatives to consider. Several manufacturers of actuators offer 24/48 Volt DC powered. The voltage of the actuator motor is also an issue. The industry habit is to specify 480 Volt 3-phase motors. In the case of Solarcraft's inverter, 120/240 single/split phase.
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What is a solar powered and line powered UPS system?
Solar powered and line powered UPS systems can provide both the power and reliability to remotely operate a valve when the need arises. Solarcraft engineers and fabricates complete systems, including a communication device, PLC or SCADA system, and the actuator, to operate critical shutdown valves and valve actuators in remote areas.
An important factor when considering solar power for valve actuation applications is the potential for leaks. If the equipment is not properly designed for the environment, operating conditions, and pressure and temperature cycling, hydraulic systems can leak. In addition, the fluid itself needs attention.
The hydraulic pressure is used to hold the valve open and compress a powerful, self-contained spring. If valve closure is required, hydraulic pressure is released and the spring quickly closes the valve, preventing further loss of product. These are just two examples of the hundreds of viable applications for solar-powered valve actuators.
How many solar-powered actuators have been installed on a pipeline?
In northern Argentina, 39 solar-powered actuators were field installed on an existing 24-inch product pipeline's through-conduit gate valves. The actuators were installed along with a new pipeline SCADA system, which allows the pipeline dispatcher to monitor pressures and flow at each valve site and close sectional block valves if needed.
How can solar electric battery storage and hydraulic accumulator storage help?
High speed, high force and critical control, which are all necessary requirements for dependable valve actuator operation, can be accomplished with an appropriate hydraulic operating system. By combining solar electric battery storage with hydraulic accumulator storage, very high operating forces and flexible speed control are possible.
How does a solar-powered spring return rotary actuator work?
In this application, a solar-powered spring return rotary actuator permits remote shutoff of a critical products pipeline if damage occurs from barge traffic or heavy rains. Solar electrical energy is used to generate hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic pressure is used to hold the valve open and compress a powerful, self-contained spring.