Rotork’s latest electro-hydraulic valve actuators

Published: 7th July 2011 | Issue 17

Cutaway drawing of a quarter-turn version of the Rotork Skilmatic SI/EH electro-hydraulic valve actuator, showing (left to right) electronic control module with LCD display and communication window, hydraulic power unit and actuator centre body with failsafe springs.

The Rotork Skilmatic self-contained electro-hydraulic valve actuator range combines the simplicity of electrical operation with the precision of hydraulic actuation and the reliability of mechanical failsafe motion for safety related applications including emergency shutdown (ESD) duty.

Rotork’s policy of continuous product innovation has now enabled a new, highly advanced control and monitoring system to be introduced to the Skilmatic range, based on the proven Rotork IQPro intelligent electric actuator technology. The resultant Skilmatic SI/EH Pro range combines existing Skilmatic features with new text displays, performance monitoring and data logging that includes valve signature profiles. The compact and robust actuators deliver a highly reliable means of valve management and positioning a valve to a safe condition. Safe valve positioning is selectable for failsafe to open, failsafe to close or lock in position on power failure or
ESD signal.

The new SI/EH Pro control module facilitates simple, safe and swift non-intrusive commissioning with infra-red and Bluetooth™ control by means of an intrinsically safe hand held setting tool. Settings including internal hydraulic pressure, position, limits, control, alarm and indication functions can be accessed and adjusted using user-friendly Rotork ‘point and shoot’ menus. Actuator status, control and alarm icons are provided on the illuminated LCD display which also gives access to real-time information such as pressure, diagnostics and help screens. Data from the actuator can be transferred to a PC for storage and analysis by means of Rotork’s free Insight II software. Offering flexibility of customisation to suit the application, the actuators can be integrated into the majority of digital bus control systems, including Pakscan, Foundation Fieldbus, DeviceNet, Profibus and Modbus.

Designed to SIL3 standards for use on safety critical applications, the actuators are also capable of partial stroke testing, enabling isolating valves to be function tested without affecting the process, something of particular importance on emergency shutdown applications. Further enhancements include preventative maintenance features including local and remote fault detection. These features are recognised as providing increased security for safety related duties such as ROSoV (Remotely Operated Shutoff Valves), an area where the Skilmatic EH actuator is widely specified.

All actuators are available with hazardous area certification encompassing ATEX, INMETRO, IEC, FM, CSA and GOST. The double-sealed electric enclosure is watertight and dustproof in ratings up to IP68. The Skilmatic SI/EH Pro range delivers rotary output torques from 65 to 600,000Nm and linear thrusts from 1.7 to 5,500kN, providing suitability for valves of virtually any size and design.

Rotork Fluid Systems
Tel: 0113 205 7223
Website: www.rotork.com

Rotork UK