Universally adaptable control heads for hygienic valves
28 October 2011
Burkert’s new 8681 control head has been developed specially for use with pneumatically controlled hygienic process valves in decentralised automation applications. The Type 8681 complements Bürkert’s clean line ELEMENT series of control heads, digital positioners and process controllers, for diaphragm, angle seat, globe, ball and butterfly valves, effectively expanding Burkert’s extensive hygienic processing range for the food/beverage and pharmaceutical industries.
A key feature of the Type 8681 control head is that it is universally adaptable, enabling it to be combined with all commercially available valve types, such as butterfly valves, ball valves and single and double-seat valves. In addition, the control head is manufactured from chemical-resistant materials, benefits from a high IP rating, and is very easy to clean, features that make it ideal for use in hygienic applications.
As well as universal adaptability, the Type 8681 is characterised by its ease of installation and operation and the level of interactive status control that it provides. These features enhance the 8681’s role as the centralised element in decentralised automation systems, performing all pneumatic actuation, feedback and diagnostic functions, as well as bus communication. Moreover, depending on process valve type, the 8681 is able to control up to three pneumatic actuator chambers separately.
Once the 8681 control head is installed on the valve actuator, the switching positions are automatically determined by a fast and reliable teach-in function that eliminates the requirement for manual configuration. The three integrated switching positions are measured by the control head via an inductive analogue position sensor and transmitted to a PLC. A fourth switching position can also be provided, if required, via an externally mounted inductive proximity switch
Complementing the feedback facility to a PLC, a highly visible colour-illuminated status display signals the respective switching position of the process valve. Diagnostic functions such as required maintenance or errors are also signalled visually and can be read out in detail via a service interface.
Also aiding operational flexibility with the Type 8681 is a feature that allows the switching speed of each driver chamber to be set individually for both directions of movement, by means of a restrictor function integrated into the pilot valve. In addition, a non-return valve prevents faulty switching of the process valves due to back pressure. Independently of the power supply, each pilot valve can be switched manually by means of a mechanical hand control. This patented magnetically- coded manual operation allows switching of the main actuator from outside a completely enclosed device – ensuring full IP protection also during maintenance on the process valve.
Contact Details and Archive...