The James Bond of Actuators
If you’re working in a hazardous location, the most important thing to remember is that it’s not just sparks, heat, or chemical reactions that can trigger explosions; static electricity can also cause an ignition. That’s why you need equipment like explosion proof electric actuators — they’re specifically designed to prevent ignition, and the explosion that would accompany it.
These devices are typically made of non-sparking materials, and can even be made of specialized polymers that are able to absorb the vapors from volatile chemicals such as acetylene. They are often insulated to keep the electrical circuits from coming into contact with anything flammable, and their enclosures meet UL HazLoc and ATEX ratings, making them suitable for use in dangerous locations.
The simplest of all explosion proof electric actuators is the linear type, which can be used to drive a range of valves – from quarter turn ball and butterfly valves to dampers. These types of actuators can also be equipped with a wide range of options, including visual and electrical valve position indication, manual override, and weatherproof housings.
Rotary electric actuators go a step further, offering rotational movement that spans multiple degrees. These models are ideal for applications where you need a lot of range, and they can be paired with limit switches to prevent the over-rotation that can occur in many industrial settings.
Linear linear actuators can also be used to support mining operations, helping to control drilling choke valves and reducing fluid velocities in the extraction of metal ore and coal. They’re also used in pipelines, where they help to reduce the pressure of gasses that are being transported. Explosion-Proof Actuators