A positioner translates the pneumatic or electrical input signal into a corresponding output signal that sets the set point position. The position feedback is typical for a positioner. It is utilized to calculate the actual position and corrects a potential difference if required.

Our positioners operate based on the nozzle/flapper principle, A compressed air nozzle directs compressed air against a flapper. The flapper moves or adjusts the distance – based on the valve position and thereby adjusts the back pressure in the system until the value set point is achieved and balance exists. Positioners can be found wherever liquid or gas flow in pipelines needs to be regulated typically together with control valves, but also other industrial valves, for instance ball valves, segment valves, butterfly valves and gate valves with pneumatic drives. Positioners must also be utilized to regulate steam in pipelines, used to warm up processes or transfer energy in power plants. Whenever operations are automated and optimized, such well-defined flow rates are required in many instances e.g. an industrial control valve with pneumatic actuation can be applied here.

Yet, this kind of actuator has the drawback that it can either open or close completely. A second positioner, however, lets you set the actuator to any position in between, so you can finely tune your cylinder. This enables you to maximize the efficiency of the system and conserve precious resources in the process.