Manual Actuators
Overview
Manual actuators are mechanical devices deployed in municipal water and wastewater treatment plants for the control of valve operations. By enabling operators to manually open or close valves, these devices allow the regulation of water or wastewater flow across different treatment stages and processes.
Functionally, manual actuators convert a user-applied rotary input—via a handwheel or lever—into linear motion, which in turn manipulates the valve stem to achieve the desired positional setting of the valve. This manual approach provides a reliable means of direct control, especially when automation is unnecessary or impractical.
Common Applications
- Influent and effluent gates: Controlling flow in and out of treatment plants
- Sludge handling: Managing flow and isolation in sludge processes
- Filter backwash systems: Regulating backwash flow
- Chemical feed systems: Managing chemical dosing flows
Operator Experience
- Routine operation: Manual control of valve position
- Maintenance: Lubricating gearbox, inspecting for wear/damage
- Safety: Securing actuator to prevent accidental movement; regular inspections for integrity and safety compliance
Major Components
- Handwheel or lever: User interface for manual input
- Gearbox: Converts rotary input to linear motion
- Indicator: Shows valve position (open/closed/partially open)
- Housing: Protects internal actuator parts
- Stem: Connects actuator mechanism to the valve
Design Criteria
- Valve size: Match actuator size to valve dimensions (inches or mm)
- Valve type: Gate, butterfly, ball, etc.
- Operating torque: Select actuator for required torque (Nm)
- Number of turns: Consider the number of turns required to operate the valve
Key Design Decisions
Specification Section
- MasterFormat Division 40: Process Integration
- Section 40 05 13: Process Piping and Equipment Heat Tracing
Submittal + Construction Considerations
Popular Manufacturers and Models
- Rotork: IW series
- AUMA: SG series
- Emerson (Bettis): G-series
Alternative Equipment
- Pneumatic Actuators: Use air pressure to control valves, ideal for automated or remotely located valves.
- Electric Actuators: Use electric motors for valve control, preferred for applications requiring precision or remote operation.
Real-World Tips
Connect with a Local Distributor
If you need help with sizing, system compatibility, maintenance planning, or sourcing, connect with your local manufacturer's representative. They can assist you in selecting the right equipment for your specific application and site conditions.
