GregPLC
Member
Good evening everyone! I'd like to share a debate/discussion we have once in a while at work.
What is everyone's opinion on the location of the controls for an analog or a discrete valve?
If all things are equal, I prefer putting the I/P (analog valve) or solenoid (discrete valve) as an integral part of the positioner or valve. Some of my collegues prefer control panel mounting all components (I/P or solenoid). Their argument is that it eliminates some field wiring. Obviously instrument air will have to be run to the valve (for analog), but they claim having less field wiring is better.
In my opinion, (if all things are equal concerning location conditions), I would rather have the I/P integral to the positioner. I like the PMV positioners, the I/P is build into them. (for example, not trying to advertise here Phil) Just run your 4-20mA signal wire to them, and a supply air line and you're done. I prefer this because it makes valve tuning easier. Your I/P is right at the valve, makes troubleshooting easier also.
Of course there are advantages to panel mounting the I/P too.
I'd like to hear everyone's opinion as to what they prefer, if all things are equal. Obviously there are some "it depends" situations, where it is clearly advantageous one way or another. I just want to know if there's something I'm missing by prefering to mount the components in the field.
TIA,
Greg
What is everyone's opinion on the location of the controls for an analog or a discrete valve?
If all things are equal, I prefer putting the I/P (analog valve) or solenoid (discrete valve) as an integral part of the positioner or valve. Some of my collegues prefer control panel mounting all components (I/P or solenoid). Their argument is that it eliminates some field wiring. Obviously instrument air will have to be run to the valve (for analog), but they claim having less field wiring is better.
In my opinion, (if all things are equal concerning location conditions), I would rather have the I/P integral to the positioner. I like the PMV positioners, the I/P is build into them. (for example, not trying to advertise here Phil) Just run your 4-20mA signal wire to them, and a supply air line and you're done. I prefer this because it makes valve tuning easier. Your I/P is right at the valve, makes troubleshooting easier also.
Of course there are advantages to panel mounting the I/P too.
I'd like to hear everyone's opinion as to what they prefer, if all things are equal. Obviously there are some "it depends" situations, where it is clearly advantageous one way or another. I just want to know if there's something I'm missing by prefering to mount the components in the field.
TIA,
Greg
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