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Electrohydraulic actuators solve long-term problem

A Rotork Skilmatic product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Aug 29, 2005

Protracted problems with pneumatic control valves have been successfully eliminated by the introduction of electrohydraulic alternatives at the Scottish Power Longannett Power Station.

Protracted problems with pneumatic control valves have been successfully eliminated by the introduction of electrohydraulic alternatives at the Scottish Power Longannett Power Station in Clackmannanshire.

The new equipment - comprising Rotork Skilmatic actuators and Evola ball valves - has been installed to control water levels in direct contact heater and condenser plant areas.

Derek Duncan, C and I Engineer at Longannett explained: "Historically the air system at the site has not been of good quality, causing problems which increased following the introduction of a new distributed control system (DCS) in 2000".

"The Smart positioners retrofitted to pneumatic actuators at that time are particularly intolerant to moisture in the air supply".

"It was therefore decided that the best way forward would be to adopt a new approach to the actuation".

"In discussion with various suppliers a fully modulating actuator with a soft seated ball valve became the preferred option".

The Rotork Skilmatic electrohydraulic actuator and Evola ball valve combination was recommended by specialist actuation service provider Exeeco, a company with a long and successful history of supply and maintenance at Longannett.

The Skilmatic actuator provides the simplicity of electrical operation, combined with the precision of hydraulic operation for modulating or failsafe applications.

The actuators operate directly from an electrical supply and control signal, without relying on a pneumatic supply.

The new actuated valves were installed during a major outage on Longannett Unit 2 in the summer of 2004.

Derek Duncan observes: "To date this system has run on auto with zero failures and all concerned are very satisfied with the outcome".

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