Valve actuator positioner is intrinsically safe

The IS200 intrinsically safe electronic actuator positioner has been designed and manufactured specifically for upstream and downstream oil and gas industry applications.

Orange Instruments has brought to market an exciting new product that is believed to be unique in supply from an independent instrumentation company.

This latest instrument design is the 200 series of valve actuator positioners.

The IS200 intrinsically safe electronic actuator positioner has been designed and manufactured specifically for upstream and downstream oil and gas industry applications.

The device represents an excellent independent source of supply for customers looking to automate the closed loop positioning of electrohydraulic actuators that control choke and mainline valves.

The IS200 can be incorporated in new projects, or as part of a retrofit programme to existing valves.

A successful retrofit trial was completed recently at an offshore installation near Qatar.

The instrument works by comparing two analogue signals, one representing the desired position (command signal) and the other corresponding to the existing position (feedback signal) of the actuator.

The difference between the two signals will cause one of the IS200 outputs to operate, driving the actuator to its required position.

The instrument's many features include: simple two-step calibration; 4-20mA current command signals and current or potentiometer feedback signal; manual mode; selectable solenoid drive for failsafe operation; actual position calibrated output; stepping mode with adjustable on/off times so speed of actuator transit can be reduced; and selectable default operation on command/feedback signal break.

Another benefit is that a positional dead-zone may be adjusted to overcome 'hunting' problems associated with mechanical overrun of the actuator.

To ensure the IS200 is able to withstand demanding operating environments, the circuit boards are coated with a resistant layer that protects the tracks from moderate condensation and mould growth.

Two safe area instruments are also available - the EX200 with the same compact form factor as the IS200, and the IRP200 with an infra-red user interface and two-line data display.

In response to increasing customer demand, two further models, based on the EX200 and IS200, are being fast-tracked to market incorporating Fieldbus and Hart technology, for which it is thought there are no equivalents currently available from independent sources.

This will then complete the Orange 200 series valve actuator positioner family.

Orange Instruments can supply the positioner complete with associated electrical equipment in a prewired enclosure or, if required, the instruments can be supplied as stand-alone units.

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