Differences between electric actuators and pneumatic ones
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The valve used in the phthalic anhydride production process was previously controlled pneumatically; after failures, the process intended to switch to electric actuators from Chuanyi. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each? It would be great if it could be more detailed. Thank you
Choose this instrumentation major then; does it cover process-related aspects as well?
The main difference lies in the type of power used: one uses wind as power while the other uses electricity. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on the usage environment; pneumatic systems are used in explosion-proof areas.
The pneumatic version relies on air; when there’s no air, it seems to have a spring mechanism that allows it to move. Electric ones rely on electricity; they stop working when the power runs out, and there’s no spare battery.
Different power sources result in different working characteristics. With electric drives, the fault can be maintained; with pneumatic drives, it is reset. Electric drives come with a handwheel for manual operation, but I’ve never seen pneumatic drives have a handwheel. From an electrical safety perspective, pneumatic is definitely safer
Electric actuators are slow to respond and have high torque; switching from pneumatic to electric systems requires more cables
The maintenance of electric systems involves many specialized fields, such as electrical engineering, instrumentation, and machining. Pneumatic options should be given priority.
The pneumatic performance is good, with smooth adjustment; also, it’s necessary to check the explosion-proof zone
It is recommended not to make any changes; the pneumatic version is more stable and safer