Rotork IQ3 intelligent non-intrusive electric actuator

Rotork has announced the introduction of the third generation of its flagship IQ range of intelligent non-intrusive heavy duty electric valve actuators. The development of this range benefits from over fifty years of practical global operating experience from Rotork’s vast array of valve actuation customers and markets.

Value-added benefits of the IQ3 Electric Actuator

Well, the IQ3 not only introduces new levels of functionality and asset management capability, but it combines this with other additional refinements to an already tried and tested rugged mechanical design. The Rotork actuator has led the way in actuation technology since its first appearance in the early 1990s and this third generation of intelligent electric actuator only serves to strengthen the pedigree of the product range.

Wide angle indication window

The device displays a toughened glass wide angle indication window allowing  non-intrusive two way wireless communication and multi-functional indication. This permits access to user-friendly menus for setting-up, configuration and commissioning of the actuator along with positioning, valve and diagnostic and repair information.

LCD segment display

An LCD segment display provides the valve positional and warning icon information, whilst actuator setup and operating menus along with detailed diagnostic and operational data screens are clearly displayed in dot matrix format. The device has four selectable Home-screens to provide a quick view of operational status and process information in real-time without having to navigate to the diagnostic screens.

Diagnostic graphics

A diagnostic window into the process shows the valve torque and usage profiles along with the service logs. This allows for real time analysis.

Remote hand setting tool

The new remote hand-held setting tool uses an infrared signal to check that both items (actuator and setting tool) are Rotork devices before pairing them together using Bluetooth® wireless technology. The security enabled by this technology is further enhanced by the ability to enable or disable the Bluetooth® link as the method of further communication.

Advanced IQ data handling

The IQ3 has data logging and communication capabilities that have been increased in response to the end users’ desire to access more data, both in the field and in the control room. The remote setting tool allows data from the actuators to be transferred to a PC for analysis using the Bluetooth® link technology. The Valve maintenance requirements can also be identified and anticipated, eliminating unplanned interruptions to the process or over-cautious planned maintenance outages.

Patented encoder technology

Using an innovative patented encoder with built-in redundancy and self checking, the position of the valve is mechanically tracked if the actuator is manually operated when the power is off. No power is required for the actuator to reliably and accurately monitor its position and hence also the valve position. The encoder has only four moving parts and is capable of measuring up to 8,000 output turns. In the event of power outage, a standard battery ensures that local LCD and remote contact indication and all actuator settings are maintained.

Mechanical improvements

Other enhancements include new handwheel assemblies, non-intrusive local control switches and optimised corrosion protection by material and coating selection. Actuators can be removed from the valve without altering valve position due to re-engineered thrust bases. The units are IP68 watertight and temporarily submersible double-sealed enclosure is universal to all actuators. They also come with explosion proof certification if required, thereby ensuring long term reliable performance even in the most challenging of environments.

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