Actuator lock resists vandals and thieves

The AVL is a novel valve actuator lock designed to secure installations against the risk of theft.

In certain countries it is important that actuators are physically locked to avoid vandalism.

According to Albert Buschgens, Design Engineer at Netherlocks Safety Systems, there have been a number of cases where oil exploration companies have discovered that their product has been stolen after the actuator had closed the production valve.

In-depth examinations have revealed that locals have opened the actuator/valve using a hand pump.

To avoid the chance of such theft, Netherlocks has designed the AVL, an actuator lock that is fully integrated with the actuator-valve-mounting bracket.

The lock ensures that torque applied from a hand pump cannot open the actuator.

A second feature to this novel device is its "partial stroking".

Using a second key it is possible to test the integrity of the actuator by operating it over just 20 degrees of travel.

is a requirement covered by IEC61508.

The AVL is a custom-made unit that can withstand any imaginable torque and can be manufactured in any material the client requires.

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