Operation, actuation & controls

The Wouter Witzel philosophy for actuation is being able to supply, out of a wide spectrum of brands and types, the optimum solution for each specific case of valve actuation according to the requirements of different market segments and customers. In order to match the desired quality, specification and performance at the right price, we classify the actuators into three categories:

  • Economic
  • General purpose
  • Heavy duty

(Electro)hydraulic actuation

Hydraulic actuators use oil under high pressure as energy power source.

Main features of hydraulic actuators are:
  • Compact and small design
  • Smooth operation over complete valve stroke
  • Spring return actuators for fail-safe operation
  • Possibility for submerged or sub-sea operation


Electric actuation

Electric actuators use electricity as energy power source

All electric actuators used by Wouter Witzel are provided with at least two internal switches. Main features of electric actuators are:
  • High torque output
  • Self braking construction
  • Low noise level
  • Smooth operation over complete valve stroke.
Most economical way of power actuation for bigger sizes of butterfly valves.


Manual gearbox

A manual gearbox allows greater ease of operation and gives a better protection

To reduce the required manual effort applied or to minimize the pressure shocks a manual gearbox is preffered. A gearbox allows greater ease of operation and gives a better protection against system damage caused by waterhammer due to quick closing. For regulating valves with a gearbox the system can be properly balanced by fine manual control. Casing materials are cast aluminium, cast iron, ductile iron or stainless steel. The available operating devices for gearbox are handwheels, tee caps for buried service or chainwheels for overhead installations.


Manual Lever

Lift and turn type, made in ductile iron

The basic manual operator for Wouter Witzel valves up to DN 200 is the 10 position spring loaded lever with notch plate which provides quick operation, economy and simplicity. When the lever is not in manual control it always returns to a latched position. It is designed to open or close the valve or to regulate the flow. The lever is also designed to serve as valve disc positioner indicator. When the lever is positioned parallel to the pipeline the valve is open.


Pneumatic actuation

Pneumatic actuators use compressed filtered dry or lubricated air as energy power source.

Main features of pneumatic actuators are:
  • Simple and reliable construction
  • Compact design
  • Short operation times
  • Spring return actuators for fail-safe operation
  • Suitable for control duty with a 100% duty rate
Most economical way of power actuation for smaller sizes of butterfly valves


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