Learn about the role of Rack and Pinion Actuators in On-off and Modulating Control

The compact and efficient design of rack and pinion actuators have advantages for many installations, and can meet facilities’ control needs with reduced costs but increased reliability.

As rack and pinion actuator technology has been developed over the years, it has been proven reliable because of durability and cycle life. Rack and pinion actuators, despite common misconceptions of issues dealing with mechanical backlash and internal friction, are well suited for modulating control applications as well as commonly accepted applications in on-off service.

When major control valve companies entered the market, typical actuation strategy was to use existing off-the-shelf globe valves driving a linear-to-rotary linkage. Over the years, other configurations and actuator designs have been developed, and many of them are still available today, including scotch yoke, vane and electric. Each of these has its place in the market, but this article investigates the development, limitations and design characteristics of rack and pinion actuators.

Read the full Valve Magazine Article.