AUMA SOLUTION
FOR MULTIPORT VALVES
News / FEBRUARY 14, 2020
High precision AUMA solution for multiport valves
AUMA offers a new, highly precise, automation solution for multiport valves based on SAVEx electric actuators with adjustable actuator output speed. Actuators support up to 16 connections with a combination of short working hours and excellent precision, thanks to their variable speed motors. Positioning accuracy is better than 0.3 °, making the actuators suitable for the most challenging applications in this area. Fold valves with a lifting plug are also supported.
Multiport valves find application in the oil and gas industry in multi drill hole sampling systems. Fluids from each well can be directed into a unique sampling system by turning the valve, allowing operators to closely monitor current production. The required positioning accuracy makes this application demanding for actuators.
AUMA’s SAVEx variable speed actuators are ideal for this task. For fast switching, the actuator motor runs at high speed for most of the way. Before the valve cap reaches the desired attachment position, the speed is greatly reduced. Eliminating overrun allows for extremely accurate positioning.
Fold valves with a lift plug need an even more demanding solution for starting, as two different movements must be coordinated: before the plug can be turned to the desired connection, it must be lifted from the seat. This requires a second actuator. An intelligent and simple solution of AUMA is to use two actuators in the master-slave configuration where they appear as a single actuator in the DCS. Intelligent control devices fully control the sequence of movements and the safety lock.
AUMA has also expanded its list of communication protocols that support the multiport function and switch valve functionality: The Fieldbus protocol is now available, alongside Profibus DP, Modbus RTU and Modbus TCP/IP.
