Butterfly valves are widely used in marine and industrial systems for flow regulation and isolation due to their compact design, fast operation, and cost-effectiveness. However, the performance and efficiency of butterfly valves depend heavily on the type of actuator used to control the valve’s movement.
At Aik Soon Hardware Pte Ltd, a trusted marine and industrial valve stockist based in Singapore, we specialize in pneumatic and electric actuators for butterfly valves. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two actuation types, helping you make an informed decision for your valve applications.
What Is a Valve Actuator?
A valve actuator is a mechanism that automatically opens or closes a valve, eliminating the need for manual operation. For butterfly valves, the actuator turns the disc to regulate flow through the pipeline. The choice of actuator influences control precision, speed, torque, and energy usage.
The two most common actuator types for butterfly valves are:
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Pneumatic actuators
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Electric actuators
Let’s break down each one.
Pneumatic Actuators for Butterfly Valves
How They Work:
Pneumatic actuators use compressed air to generate motion. Air pressure pushes a piston or diaphragm that turns the valve stem and disc.
Advantages:
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Fast Response Time: Ideal for applications requiring quick opening/closing.
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High Torque Output: Suitable for larger valves or tough flow media.
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Explosion-Safe: Since there are no electrical components, they’re safer in hazardous environments.
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Cost-Effective for Large Systems: Especially when multiple valves are controlled by a single air system.
Common Use Cases:
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Marine engine cooling systems
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Industrial air and gas pipelines
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Chemical processing facilities
Electric Actuators for Butterfly Valves
How They Work:
Electric actuators rely on an electric motor to rotate the valve disc via the shaft. They can be programmed for precise flow control and integrated into automation systems.
Advantages:
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Precise Control: Allows for modulation and accurate positioning.
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Easy Integration: Compatible with digital control systems like SCADA or PLC.
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No Air Supply Needed: Useful where compressed air is unavailable or impractical.
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Low Maintenance: Fewer moving parts and cleaner operation.
Common Use Cases:
Pneumatic vs Electric Actuation: Quick Comparison
| Feature |
Pneumatic Actuator |
Electric Actuator |
| Power Source |
Compressed Air |
Electricity |
| Speed |
Very Fast |
Moderate |
| Precision |
Moderate |
High |
| Safety in Hazardous Areas |
High |
Moderate (requires explosion-proof rating) |
| Maintenance |
Moderate |
Low |
| Best For |
Fast actuation, hazardous zones |
Precision control, automation |
Why Choose Aik Soon Hardware?
At Aik Soon Hardware Pte Ltd, we carry a curated range of pneumatic and electric actuated butterfly valves tailored for Singapore’s marine and industrial sectors. With years of experience and deep technical knowledge, our team is ready to assist in selecting the best actuation solution for your project.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for fast response times or high-precision valve control, choosing the right actuator is essential to system performance. Pneumatic actuators shine in rugged, fast-moving environments, while electric actuators excel in controlled, automated systems.
Aik Soon Hardware Pte Ltd proudly supplies butterfly valves with pneumatic and electric actuators across Singapore and the region. Get in touch with us today to find the right solution for your needs.