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  1. MVQ positioner solution
  2. Technology

MVQ valve positioner: Magnetic technology

ifm’s intelligent valve positioner uses magnetic technology to detect the position of quarter-turn valves. It provides a continuous feedback signal and the valve’s position is retained even after a power outage.

Evolution of valve feedback systems

Valve position feedback systems have evolved over time. Manufacturing facilities can be anywhere along this evolution process. In fact, different areas of the plant may use different methods of feedback:

6 actuators showing the progression of using just a puck for visual indication to a positioner used for valve position control.

Valve feedback systems have evolved from no feedback through continuous feedback and control.

Magnetic technology

A puck with an arrow showing the direction of the attached magnet's north and south.

ifm’s smart valve positioner is the next generation of valve automation and control. The valve positioner is equipped with smart and self-learning algorithms that are used to precisely control the process valves and provides continuous position feedback. The sensor also has two digital switching outputs for open and close positions.

 

The device measures the direction of the magnetic field generated by the puck and uses this to calculate a clear signal of angular valve position.

 

Mechanical switchboxes are commonly used for valve position feedback. But they often leak and that moisture ingress causes them to fail. The MVQ has a protection rating of IP67 so ingress issues are eliminated.

MVQ valve positioner on an actuator and connected to a solenoid with a bright LED and a visible open / closed signal from the puck.

How the MVQ301 smart valve positioner works

The interactive tool below demonstrates how the MVQ valve sensor will perform in your application. To use the tool:

  1. Enter the desired valve position for your application in percentage and press Enter.
    Please note, the value can only be a positive number between 0 and 100. (100% = 90º, 0% = 0º)
  2. Watch the valve change positions and read the actual (measured) valve position in degrees.