Valves, Actuators & Pump Control


Intelligent valves facilitate distributed control

December 2000 Valves, Actuators & Pump Control

Valve-Net is the name of a new control unit for valves, which makes intelligently distributed control possible via coupling to a fieldbus. With the launch of the Valve-Net system, Invensys is offering a significant improvement in valve control.

Cut cabling costs

Valve-Net makes it possible to connect a group of valves by means of one single shared cable, which reduces installation cost, saves cable and cable trays and greatly simplifies electrical engineering and documentation. Furthermore, employing the Valve-Net system greatly facilitates possible extensions or changes in plant layout at a later stage.

Control valve sporting the Valve-Net control head
Control valve sporting the Valve-Net control head

Clear signals

Valve-Net provides for diagnostic at a glance by means of four LED indicators to display valve status:

* Indication for activation.

* Indication of open/close position.

* Operation diagnostics.

Built-in intelligence

A series of unique intelligent functions to the concept of valve control. Special functions provide useful information that can help make maintenance and operation more cost effective:

Extended valve information

* Error and OK-status, with built-in maximum shift times.

* Monitoring of solenoid valve power consumption.

* Registration of supply voltage.

* Optional activation of preprogramme pulsation in connection with CIP.

Maintenance information includes the number of activations, a count of the errors - and the time of installation. Consequently, the improved information standard, in combination with the built-in self-diagnostics and preventive maintenance functions, are geared to minimise plant downtime.

Open and compatible system

Valve-Net is based on Profibus, an acknowledged international standard in fieldbus systems which will soon be included in the European standard for fieldbus (EN 50170). This means Valve-Net units can be linked up with most leading PLC-brands. Full compatibility was the major concern in the development of the system. This compatibility makes Valve-Net a good option for the extension or re-arranging of existing installations.

Robust design

The electronic unit is designed to withstand the tough conditions of the process industry. Priority was attributed to obtaining total resistance to water, damp, vibrations and electromagnetic noise. Plugs are 100% waterproof and fixed lengths of ready-to-use cable are provided to eliminate installation errors and corrosion risk.

Data security

All data are stored in a flash module in the Valve-Net unit. The flash technology entails full preservation of internal memory without external power supply or battery. In practise, this means that all data will still be stored in the Valve-Net unit memory even if the unit has been disused for months or years. The design also permits the future upgrading of the software.

Distributed intelligence (prepared for the future)

The idea behind the Valve-Net concept is to place an intelligent control unit in the valve top. Distribution of control reduces the workload on the central control unit (PLC), since functions such as automatic valve activation control and counting of strokes are monitored by the Valve-Net unit.

The impact on the control system as a whole benefits:

* Reduced system load.

* Reduced programming time (simpler programs).

* General improvement of the information/service level of the entire installation.



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

High-flow solenoid valve
Emerson Automation Solutions Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Emerson has introduced the new ASCO Series 327C solenoid valve, which features a direct-acting, high-flow design that provides superior flow-to-power ratio. It permits high flows at minimum power levels, making it ideal for use in power plants, refineries, and chemical processing facilities.

Read more...
Proportional cartridge valve series is the fastest in its class
Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Parker Hannifin is introducing the enhanced version of the proportional cartridge throttle valve series, TFP. The new pilot valve further reduces the step response times by up to 30%, making the TFP the fastest valve in its class.

Read more...
Proportional cartridge valve series is the fastest in its class
Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Parker Hannifin is introducing the enhanced version of the proportional cartridge throttle valve series, TFP. The new pilot valve further reduces the step response times by up to 30%, making the TFP the fastest valve in its class.

Read more...
Inspection system for leak detection in valves in hazardous areas
Extech Safety Systems Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Leaking valves in industrial plants not only lead to loss, safety risks and possible contamination and pollution, but also result in high economic costs. Therefore, valves in hazardous areas require regular proper inspection and preventive maintenance to ensure their functionality.

Read more...
Control head for automation of hygienic process valves
Burkert South Africa Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Burkert’s Type 8681 control head is optimised for decentralised automation of hygienic process valves. Thanks to its universal adapter, it can be combined with all normal commercial butterfly valves, ball valves and single- and double-seated valves.

Read more...
Hydroformed tube valve body
Burkert South Africa Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
One of the most common necessities for manufacturing pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food and beverages are diaphragm valves. What used to be a dull two-way race between forged and cast body variants is now being challenged by an exciting, ground-breaking technology. The hydroformed, light-weight diaphragm tube valve body will change the way you think about plant design and operation.

Read more...
Global pumping giant ready to support hydrogen economy
Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
With abundant sunshine and wind, southern Africa is perfectly positioned to become a global powerhouse in green hydrogen production. Two key projects are already in advanced stages of development in Namibia. KSB has identified the vast potential of these types of projects in southern Africa, and through its KSB Pumps and Valves subsidiaries in Namibia and South Africa is investing heavily in bringing the right skills to the region.

Read more...
Compact valve position indicator
Emerson Automation Solutions Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Emerson’s new TopWorx DVR Switchbox is an entry-level addition to the DV Series of valve position indicators. It combines a durable resin enclosure, compact size, and a patented cam design that provides a reliable valve position feedback for water and wastewater systems, food and beverage production lines, and industrial utilities.

Read more...
Precision, control and performance in regulators and control valves
Valve & Automation Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Cashco has long been a trusted name in industrial control solutions, offering a broad range of regulators and control valves designed to meet the rigorous demands of various industries. There are two key Cashco product lines, its regulators and the Ranger QCT control valve.

Read more...
Advanced solutions for valves
Bearing Man Group t/a BMG Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
BMG delivers state-of-the-art valve solutions to diverse industries across Africa, in collaboration with InterApp, a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality valves.

Read more...