The right motor choice for HVAC control valve actuation

Author : Mahesh Dundage and Sajal Kumar, Portescap

01 June 2022

Central to the success of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems are the miniature motors necessary to actuate the control valves. In addition to generating the required torque at low speed to regulate gas flow, the motors must ensure a long and reliable life, combined with efficiency and cost effectiveness.

Portescap's Mahesh Dundage, Lead Design Engineer, and Sajal Kumar, Product Line Manager, discuss the motor selection process for HVAC valve actuation.

An HVAC heating system generally includes a gas-driven boiler to heat the media required for circulation. Accurate control of the gas flow required for temperature modulation is typically achieved through a flow control valve. The upward and downward movement of the valve stem – or, on alternative designs, the rotating position of the stem and ball – regulates this flow. Crucial to the whole process is the actuation of the valve, which is managed electronically with a motor and drive system.

To select the right motor, the HVAC system designer must determine the torque requirements, alongside the voltage and current range available.

Read the full article in DPA's June issue