Broad portfolio for process valve automation
Do you need single components to automate process valves, or a complete, standards-compliant and repeatable automation package? Choose the approach that fits your design. Our pneumatic expertise, wide product range and practical engineering support will help you to specify products faster, integrate them smoothly and keep documentation consistent across multi-vendor configurations.
It’s your choice: on/off valves or flow control valves
For on/off valves, sensor boxes/limit switches provide reliable electrical feedback and position monitoring. For flow control, digital electro-pneumatic positioners deliver accurate performance and are easy to commissioning.
Rotary or linear motion: choose the right actuator for your application
Linear actuators are suitable for air damper control, bulk material handling and regulating flow and fill levels. Quarter-turn actuator options, including pneumatic rotary actuator variants, are ideal for ball, shut-off, and butterfly valves in demanding process environments.
Whatever you decide, standardised architectures, broad component coverage and selection support help reduce effort and complexity. You also shorten time-to-delivery with fewer redesign loops.
Your benefits:
- Reduced engineering and documentation workload
- A reliable second source for key automation components
- Standardised yet flexible architectures across brands
- Commercially viable solutions that scale across industries
Explore components for process valve automation
Rotary actuators for precise rotary motion and high torque performance
Quarter-turn actuators DFPD are available as standalone or as part of a complete automated process valve system. The swivel direction can be configured to the left or right in order to set Fail Open or Fail Close in single-acting designs. The ISO 5211 valve interface plus NAMUR mounting make it easier to fit solenoid valves, sensors and positioners. Nickel-plated or stainless shafts add durability, while the pilot-valve re-breather function helps protect the springs in corrosive atmospheres. Options include standard, epoxy-coated and anodised aluminium housings.
Linear actuators for accurate linear motion and positioning control
Beyond quarter-turn automation, many process tasks rely on accurate linear positioning, such as for regulating flow and fill levels or controlling air dampers. Our linear actuators with ISO 5210 and 15552 interfaces combine sturdy mechanics with configuration options for on/off tasks or closed-loop control via an integrated displacement encoder. With strong protection from external influences (IP65/IP67/IP69K) and ATEX-classes, you can assemble suitable process valves that are reliable in harsh operating conditions.
Valve positioners and feedback systems for process stability
The CMSX and CMSH from Festo are reliable, high-precision positioners for linear and quarter-turn actuators, whether small or large, single- or double-acting.
CMSX is the economical choice for non-hazardous areas, providing defined fail-safe positions (open/close/hold) and pre-set emergency-stop behaviour to help reduce process risks.
CMSH is the versatile all-rounder with HART communication for fast, accurate control. Standardised interfaces, smart installation concepts, a clear plain-text display and built-in self-monitoring ensure dependable operation and enable quick status checks as well as straightforward commissioning.
Limit switches for reliable position detection and machine safety
Limit switch boxes to VDI/VDE 3845 are used for electrical feedback and controlling the position of process valves actuated by pneumatic quarter turn actuators. No matter which sensor box you choose, they are all designed for quick and easy mounting to reduce installation effort. Our product range includes:
- Sturdy designs for harsh conditions
- Highly chemical-resistant versions
- Variants suitable for explosive atmospheres
- Compact solutions for tight installation spaces
Pilot valves for fast pneumatic control and efficient valve actuation
Our NAMUR pilot valves are ideal for single- and double-acting quarter turn and linear actuators. They are designed to automate and control process valves and actuators safely and reliably. Our product range includes:
- Solutions for single- and double-acting actuators
- Ex-approved versions for hazardous areas
- Variants that are extremely sturdy and corrosion resistant
- Variants for safety-oriented systems up to SIL 3
Accessories: tubing, fittings, mounting kits, and air preparation units
Our accessories are easy to install and optimise the pneumatic performance of components, while also boosting long-term system reliability. Correctly selected pneumatic accessories reduce leakages, stabilize pressure levels, and simplify assembly. These components are readily available in a range of different variants.
Your partner for process valve automation
The success of process valve automation depends on more than just individual parts; it takes a partner who understands complete systems, industry requirements and long-term operating performance to achieve high-quality designs. From engineering and commissioning support to lifecycle services, you will have everything you need to reduce complexity, improve reliability and protect performance over time.
Compliance and standards in valve automation
Ensuring products and solutions meet compliance requirements drives your delivery. Since each requirement comes with its own standards, you may need SIL for safety functions, ATEX-certified variants for hazardous zones, and the right solutions for hygiene-sensitive areas (for example product-contact vs splash zones). These topics often overlap, so the valve assembly must meet a combination of requirements.
Standardised interfaces and all-round compatibility
Integration challenges increase cost and are time-consuming. Standardised interfaces and accessories across the complete process automation portfolio help reduce integration work. Compatibility with multiple process valve manufacturers and industry-standard mounting support flexible design, reduce engineering effort and ensure systems are future-ready.
One-stop-shopping made easy:
- Valve to actuator: ISO 5211 for quarter-turn actuators; ISO 5210 and ISO 15552 where linear interfaces are used
- Actuator to pilot valve: NAMUR (VDI/VDE 3845) for consistent pneumatic control integration
- Actuator to positioner or limit switch: VDI/VDE 3845-1 and 3847-2 are widely used standards for sensor/feedback interfaces
- Accessories: providing a standard method for mounting a wide range of components
Engineering tools for faster and more reliable production selection
Our engineering tools are designed to make product selection easier and more efficient. They support you in choosing the right configuration for your application, from selecting the correct size and rotation angle to defining functions such as double-acting or single-acting operation. In addition, you can specify material options and surface treatments to ensure products perform optimally in your operating environment. This helps you quickly identify the right solution, reduce configuration errors, and streamline your engineering process.
Digital integration into process automation systems
Seamless data exchange with the highest control level is crucial. The positioner CMSH communicates directly with third-party control systems, enabling efficient data transfer and system transparency.
Components that are designed for Industry 4.0 and IoT environments can exchange information with the central control system, thus supporting advanced diagnostics and performance monitoring. When combined with solutions such as Festo AX for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, this creates greater visibility, improves reliability, and optimises system performance throughout the entire lifecycle.
Global delivery, availability and lifecycle support
Automation projects rely on dependable supplies and consistent support. A global presence and strong regional supply networks allow you to access components and solutions worldwide. Services throughout the product lifecycle help you manage spare parts, plan for modernisations and make technical expertise available for the entire service life of your system, across sites and for future expansions.
Proven use in regulated industries
In regulated environments such as food and beverage, chemical processing, and water and wastewater, safety, reliability and compliance are non-negotiable. Our automation solutions for process valves are designed with a clear understanding of industry standards, operational pressures and long-term performance requirements.
常见问题解答
1. 哪种驱动技术适用于该应用：拨叉式还是齿轮齿条式？
这主要取决于扭矩曲线、安装空间以及具体应用场景。 拨叉式驱动器特别适合极高扭矩应用，例如开启或关闭螺纹接头时，此时在旋转范围内的特定位置会产生极高的扭矩。 相比之下，齿轮齿条传动装置不仅结构紧凑，扭矩曲线更平滑，而且标准版本性价比超高。 因此，最终的选择标准取决于所需的阀特性、维护需求、空间限制以及成本。
2. 如何正确设计驱动系统的力和扭矩？
要设计出可靠的方案，不仅要考虑阀的额定扭矩，还应考虑安全系数、启动扭矩、松动扭矩、保持扭矩以及可能的紧急关断情况。 介质本身以及温度和环境条件也会影响实际负荷。 设计目标是确保该驱动系统即使在实际运行条件下，也能安全且稳定地发挥其功能。
3. 业界对用于危险区域的驱动系统有哪些要求？
在潜在爆炸性区域，驱动系统必须符合相应的区域、点火防护类型和温度等级要求。 这直接影响到材料、密封件及配套附件的选择。 无论是单个驱动系统，还是完整解决方案，都必须满足所有相关的功能、环境和安全要求。
4. 在过程阀自动化中，先导阀的作用是什么？
先导阀控制驱动器的气动操作，从而执行切换、排气等关键功能，并可用于实现故障安全方案。 它还会影响反应行为以及驱动整个单元所需的时间。 因此，先导阀是控制系统与气动驱动系统之间的重要纽带。
5. 如何为先导阀确定合适的流量？
流量的选择取决于为实现可靠驱动所需的时间和力。 除了驱动系统外，气管长度、压力损失以及与其他气动元件的相互作用也起着重要作用。 合适的设计有助于调节开关特性，并可提高过程可靠性、降低能耗。
6. 在将先导阀用于爆炸和安全相关应用时，应考虑哪些因素？
在这些应用中，先导阀必须满足环境要求和安全功能的要求。 相关标准包括点火保护类型、温度等级、材料及相应的认证。 根据具体应用场景，坚固型、耐腐蚀型或安全相关型产品同样适用。
7. 定位器的主要作用是什么？
定位器可确保阀位置精确地遵循目标位置规格说明。 它会比较目标值与实际值，补偿摩擦或过程偏差，从而确保稳定、精确的控制。 现代设备还具备诊断功能，有助于调试和运行。
8. 哪些通信接口适合用于定位器？
所需的接口取决于自动化架构。 典型的可选项包括采用模拟信号、HART 协议或其他总线系统的款型，以便集成到上级控制器中。 定位器在各类应用中都能发挥很大的作用：其支持数字化集成，提升系统可见性，还便于数据交换、诊断和参数设置。
9. 定位器在诊断和操作方面有哪些优势？
定位器不仅能实现精确控制，还有助于更快地检测驱动系统/机器/装置的运行状态，简化调试过程，并使工厂运行状况更加透明。 定位器还具有自监控、纯文本显示以及诊断数据等功能，可有效支持设备的维护保养与故障诊断工作。 这样一来就能降低停机风险，并在整个生命周期内提高过程稳定性。
10. 限位开关盒的作用是什么？
限位开关盒可为自动化过程阀的端部位置提供可靠的电气反馈。 根据版本而定，限位开关盒还会配备清晰可见的位置指示器，便于现场检查、调试和维护。 它是提供明确位置反馈的首选解决方案。
11. 哪种传感器技术最适合限位开关盒？
这取决于运行环境和具体要求。 不同类型的传感器具有不同的特性；例如，舌簧式接近开关、电感式传感器和机械微动开关在使用寿命、抗振动性能以及是否适用于危险区域等方面各有差异。 因此，选择时应始终根据具体应用、所需的耐用性以及所需的信号类型来具体考量。
12. 对于限位开关箱而言，哪些接口比较重要？
最重要的问题是如何将反馈机制集成到现有的控制体系中。 根据具体应用，可考虑采用无源触点、PNP/NPN 信号、NAMUR 传感器或其他电气接口。 标准化接口和安装选项有助于减少集成工作量，并使不同阀制造商的产品更易于彼此连接。
13. 如何正确定义阀、驱动器与附件之间的接口？
为了确保顺利完成集成，机械接口和气动接口从一开始就应按照相应的标准进行规范说明。 重要的标准包括，例如 ISO 5211 阀标准，以及适用于先导阀、定位器和传感器的 NAMUR 和 VDI/VDE 接口。 标准化降低了兼容性风险，有助于将这些元件集成到多供应商项目中。
14. 对于符合 ATEX 或 SIL 标准的组合式解决方案，需要提供哪些证明？
一旦将多个元件组合成成套过程阀，就必须考虑相关要求。 根据具体应用，其中包括防爆证明、功能安全证明以及整体解决方案的技术文件。 因此，重要的不仅仅是单个产品的适用性，所有元件之间的协调匹配程度以及相关文档是否完备也不容忽视。
15. 配置器如何帮助您选择合适的过程阀解决方案？
配置器通过结构化的方法来确定核心参数，然后推荐合适的解决方案，从而简化了选型过程。 因此，您可更快地创建配置、生成订单号，并检索 CAD 数据、文档、价格和交付时间。 这样不仅能减少工程设计工作量，降低集成与兼容性风险，还能加快项目执行进度。