Product FAQs
Select a link below to view specific product FAQs. Product Safety
Electric Actuated Valves
Electric Actuated Valves
Can I use a Valworx electric actuated valve outside?
Valworx electric actuators are designed with weatherproof enclosures and offer a degree of protection against indoor and outdoor applications - see enclosure ratings. Ensure actuators operate within the maximum and minimum temperature specifications. Protection from sun, rain, ice and snow will generally extend the life of the actuator. Refer to technical bulletin 'Enclosure Types and IP ratings'
Can I mount the electric actuated butterfly valve in a vertical pipe line?
The electric actuated butterfly valve can be mounted in any orientation. Prefer that the actuator is not mounted upside down.
What is the maximum allowable fluid velocity?
Metal valves: 5 to 10 feet/second, closer to 5ft/sec is better
PVC valves: < 5 feet/second
When wiring the position confirmation switches on 5610 series actuators, do I have to use the main power to actuator?
No, limit switches are dry contact, use any voltage within the published limits of switches - see IOM instructions
What size electric cord do I need for the black position confirmation switch DIN plug on the 5610 series actuator?
Max. O.D. for wiring cable is 5mm, see IOM 5610 instructions
My 5610 series actuator will only turn in one direction?
Refer to 5610 troubleshooting guide
Do you have a DPS and BSR kit for the 5616 series electric actuator?
Yes, see 5616 series actuator accessories
What is the ISO DIN cable connector (large gray connector) on 5610 actuators used for? The small Sub-micro cable connector (black)?
ISO cable is for power connection (Gray plug). Sub-micro cable is for position confirmation switches. See IOM instructions
What is the maximum allowable temperature of the fluid media?
Refer to product specifications for each individual item
What is the 5610 series DPS kit used for?
Using a 4-20mA or 0-10V signal input, the valve ball or disc can be positioned anywhere between 0-90° (closed to full open), changing the flow rate from 0-100%. See technical bulletin 'How does it work?'
What is the 5610 series BSR failsafe option?
The BSR battery spring return option will move the valve to a fail closed or open position with loss of main power (this can be set-up at the factory, or in the field). Actuator uses an industrial self charging battery installed under the red cover.
Do you have explosion proof electric actuators?
No, not at this time
I have a Valworx electric actuated ball valve, can I change the ball valve to a different size?
This might be possible, check with customer service
Can I use the Valworx electric actuated valve with natural gas? Propane gas?
Valworx valves do not have any agency approvals for use with propane or natural gas.
Can you tell me if your valve will work in my application?
Due to the many conditions that affect the valve choice, including, but not limited to; pressure, temperature, chemical mix, material com-pounding and environment, the user through its own analysis and testing is solely responsible for making the final selection. We will be happy to clarify any questions you might have about the specifications of any Valworx product.
Can I change my electric actuator to an air actuator?
This might be possible, check with customer service.
How does the 5618 series electric actuator with EPS positioner work?
Refer to technical bulletin 'How does it work? 5618 Electric Actuator with EPS positioner'.
Can you supply an electric actuated valve for higher temperatures than what is listed on your website?
No, the maximum temperature ratings for our valves are listed on the webstore. Check the product specifications for maximum allowable temperatures.
Can you supply an electric actuated valve good for higher pressures than what you have listed on your webstore?
No, the maximum pressures for our valves are listed on the webstore. Check the product specifications and pressure-temperature chart for maximum allowable pressures.
What type of 3-way switch do I need to operate the Valworx electric actuator?
Generally a 3-way 2-position switch is used to operate the electric actuators.
My 5610 series electric actuated valve will close, but will not open?
Refer to 5610 troubleshooting guide
My actuated valve with 5610/5615/5616 series actuator will not work?
Refer to 5610/5616 troubleshooting guide
My new 5618 series actuator will not open or close?
Since all actuators are 100% functionally tested prior to shipping, most likely there is a wiring issue, Refer to 5618 troubleshooting guide
Can you confirm the Valworx valve will work with my fluid media?
Many conditions can affect the valve choice, including, but not limited to; pressure, temperature, chemical mix, material compounding and environment. The user through its own analysis and testing is solely responsible for making the final selection. Our 'Media Compatibility Guide' maybe helpful in determining material compatibility. Contacting the fluid manufacturer may also be helpful in determining fluid compatibility.
Do you offer electric actuated valves with a failsafe option?
We offer a BSR - Battery Spring Return option for our 5610/5615/5616 series electric actuators (actuators with red cover). This option will return the valve to a fail closed (or open) position with loss of main power via industrial self charging batteries. Air actuated spring return valves may also be a good option when failsafe operation is required.
My 5610 series actuator stopped working and the LED is blinking?
Refer to 5610/5615/5616 troubleshooting guide
Why do I need to maintain power to the electric actuator either in the open or closed position?
Maintain power to the actuator either in the open or closed position to activate the internal anti-condensation heater (when using actuators with heaters).
Where can I find the pressure-temperature charts for your valves?
The P/T (pressure-temperature) charts can be found in the product data sheet.
Do you offer a positioner option for your electric actuated 3-way valves?
Some 3-way valves are available with a positioner. First, reference the technical bulletin '3-Way Ball Valve Flow Paths' and confirm the 3-way ball valve flow function will work in your application. Then contact customer service and request a quotation for a custom item.
What is the difference between the 5610 and 5618 series actuators?
Refer to 'Product Comparison Guide' under technical bulletins
Can I change my electric actuated valve from normally closed to normally open?
There shouldn't be any need to change, since electric actuated valves are either open or closed determined by the input control signal.
Can I change the fail condition of the 5618 series actuator with EPS positioner?
The 5618 series actuator with EPS positioner will stop-in-place with loss of main power. The actuator can be setup to fail in-place, closed or open with loss of the control signal, as long as main power is
Can I reverse the input control signal of the DPS kit?
Yes, this is possible on 5610/5615/5616 models, and can be done at the factory. Reversing the signal makes 20 mA=closed, 4 mA=open. If this needs to be done in the field, please contact Valworx for instructions.
Do you have any 12 volt actuator/actuated valve options?
Yes, it would require a custom assembly, but most valves are available in a 12 Volt option - please contact customer support for assistance.
What is the part number for a High Temperature kit?
Go to the product page for the actuated valve and look under the accessories tab.
I am not too familiar with valves, can you tell me what type of valve I need for my application?
Due to the many conditions that affect choosing a valve, including, but not limited to; pressure, temperature, chemical mix, material com-pounding and environment, the user will need to determine the best type valve for their application. We offer a large selection of actuated ball valves and butterfly valves. If you determine these type valves might work in your application, we will be happy to clarify any questions you might have about the specifications of any Valworx product.
Do you have any electric actuated valves with faster cycle times?
No, the cycle times are fixed and non-adjustable. If faster cycle times are required, you might look at our air actuated valves (cycle time typi-cally 1-1.5 seconds). Of course for this to work you would need to have compressed air available.
Do you have prewired DIN cord sets for your actuators?
We do offer prewired DIN cord sets for 5610/5615/5616 series electric actuators, as well as solenoid valves. We also offer solutions for the 5618 series electric actuators. Refer to electric actuator accessories categories.
Can I add a High Temperature kit to an existing Valworx electric actuated valve?
Yes, you would need to select a kit matching both the actuator and valve mounting patterns. See actuator accessories.
Will all Valworx valves work with vacuum?
Yes, in most cases. Check the valve specification for vacuum rating, if listed.
Can you provide 3D CAD drawings for your electric actuated valves?
We provide 3D CAD models in popular formats for all of our Valworx products - see the 'CAD' tab on each product page. If you need to see a file with accessories installed, email sales@valworx.com to request the specific files you need. Include the stock number of the valve and any accessories with your request.
What is the estimated lifespan of my electric actuator?
Due to the many conditions that can affect an actuator, including, but not limited to; duty cycle, torque, environment, temperature, and en-closure ratings, we are unable to determine how long an actuator will last. Please view our product comparisons online to decide which actu-ator will best suit your application. Let us know if you have any ques-tions regarding the specifications of an actuator.
How do I hook my actuator into a PLC/What do I need for controls?
Our on/off electric actuators provide a confirmation signal via dry con-tacts, and our positioning units provide a 4-20mA output signal. We provide a confirmation signal for our pneumatic actuators via an exter-nal limit switch, sold separately, which also uses dry contacts. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our wiring diagram but are unable to assist with a PLC provided by others. If you are unfamiliar with wiring the product, it may be necessary to consult
What is the life cycle of a battery for a BSR kit?
We are unable to specify the life of a battery but do offer replacements if necessary. Please call Valworx for more information. The battery is constantly being trickle charged when the unit is powered. Refer to the battery kit data sheets for details on recharge times.
Do you have any 12 volt actuator/actuated valve options?
Yes, it would require a custom assembly, but most valves are available in a 12 Volt option - please contact customer support for assistance.
Can I adjust my CAMS to stop at 45° or 180°?
In most cases, our actuators have internal cams that can be adjusted to any arc of rotation, but our product warranty is limited to applications consistent with the product's intended use. Any unauthorized modifi-cations made to the actuator from its original state could void the war-ranty of the product. Contact technical support for instructions if need-ed.
Air Actuated Valves
What is the difference between spring return (SR) and double acting (DA) actuators?
See technical bulletin listed under 'How does it work?'
What air pilot pressure is required to operate Valworx air actuated valves?
Valworx air actuated valves are designed to operate with 80-120 PSI (compressed air) pilot pressure.
In which position does an air actuated spring return 3-way valve fail?
Position 1 is the fail position.
How does a direct mount solenoid valve work?
See technical bulletin listed under 'How does it work?'
Does the air actuated valve have a manual override?
The air actuator does not have a manual override, but a manual override is provided with optional direct mount solenoid valves.
What is the part number for a High Temperature kit?
Go to the product page for the actuated valve and look under the accessories tab.
What are the three (3) ports on the direct mount solenoid valve?
The center port 1 is for the inlet supply pressure (80-120PSI). The other two ports 3 and 5 are exhaust ports. Refer to IOM instructions.
How fast does an air actuated valve operate?
See product specifications. Generally, smaller valves less than 2 inch pipe size, cycle in about one second. Larger valves up to 6 inch pipe, cycle in about 1.5 seconds. A cycle is per 90° rotation.
How do I control the open/close speed of a double acting (DA) air actuated valve?
See product accessories. Typically you would use the 5296 series 4-way sandwich style flow valve for precision control or exhaust speed controls for rough control of open & close speeds.
How do I control the open/close speed of a spring return (SR) air actuated valve?
See product accessories. Typically you would use the 5296 series 3-way sandwich style flow valve for precision control. An exhaust speed control can be used to give rough control of the closing speed, but exhaust speed controls will not control the open speed of a spring return actuator.
Do you have prewired DIN cord sets for direct mount solenoid valves?
We do not offer prewired DIN cord sets for direct mount solenoid valves.
How do I wire the 5291 series direct mount solenoid valve?
Basically, connect power to the DIN connector terminals 1 & 2 and the flat pin to earth ground. See IOM instructions for more details.
Can I add a High Temperature kit to an existing Valworx air actuated valve?
Yes, you would need to select a kit matching both the actuator and valve mounting patterns. See actuator accessories.
Will the Valworx valve work with vacuum?
Yes, in most cases. Check the valve specification for vacuum rating.
Can I mechanically adjust the flow rate of an air actuated ball valve?
No, but we do offer pneumatic positioners with 4-20mA or 3-15PSI inputs. Positioners allow user to adjust flow 0-100%.
How do I plumb a spring return (SR) air actuator?
See IOM instructions for 5300/5301 air actuators
How do I plumb a double acting (DA) air actuator?
See IOM instructions for 5300/5301 air actuators
Can I use the Valworx air actuated ball valve outside?
Yes, air actuated valves are weatherproof per materials of construction. Do not exceed minimum and maximum temperature specifications.
Do you have a way to confirm the air actuated valve is in the closed position? Open position?
Yes, we offer an optional valve monitor/limit switch box. Monitor contains (2) dry contact limit switches used to confirm open and closed position. There is also a highly visual valve position indicator.
What type of pilot air do I need to operate an air actuated valves?
Filtered, dry or lubricated compressed air. See IOM instructions.
What is the volume of pilot air required for each cycle?
Metal valves: 5 to 10 feet/second, closer to 5ft/sec is better
PVC valves: < 5 feet/second
Can I mount the air actuated valve in a vertical pipe line?
Yes, Valworx air actuated valves can be mounted in any orientation.
How does the 4-20mA electro-pneumatic positioner work?
See technical bulletin under 'How does it work?' Supply a 4-20mA input to the positioner to vary the process valve flow output 0-100%
How does the 3-15 PSI pneumatic positioner work?
See technical bulletin under 'How does it work?' Supply a 3-15PSI input to the positioner to vary the process valve flow output 0-100%
What is the maximum temperature rating for your stainless steel air actuated valves?
Refer to the online specifications and the pressure-temperature chart found in the product data sheet.
What is the metal lever on top of the direct mount solenoid valve?
A manual override. Use a small flathead screwdriver to operate.
Do you offer 12 volt DC direct mount solenoid valves?
Yes, look under actuator accessories for alternate voltages
Can I use my own solenoid valve to operate your spring return (SR) and double acting (DA) air actuators?
Yes, typically you need a 3-way normally closed 2-position pilot valve for SR actuators or a 4-way 2-position valve to operate DA actuators
Do you offer explosion proof direct mount solenoid valves?
No, not at this time. User might look at the Asco brand. Most Asco Na-mur mount valves will direct mount to Valworx air actuators.
Will Valworx air actuated valves work with 50 PSI pilot air supply?
Valworx air actuated valves need 80-120 PSI pilot air supply
Can you supply an air actuated valve to operate at 2000 PSI?
The maximum pressure we offer at this time is 1000 PSI (SS valves).
Can I use your PVC air actuated ball valve with compressed air as the process media?
PVC ball valves should not be used with compressed air or gases. PVC valves are primarily used with compatible liquids.
Can I use natural gas or propane as the pilot media for Valworx air actuated valves? I don't have air available.
Air actuator pilot media should be compressed air or nitrogen
Do you have an air actuator that will rotate 180 degrees?
Valworx air actuators rotate 90 degrees
Do you have any way to stop the air actuated valve in a mid position?
Optional pneumatic positioners will allow stopping the valve in any position by use of a 4-20mA or 3-15 PSI input control signal.
Will your valve work at a slightly higher pressure than published?
Operating pressure should be within the limits listed in the pressure /temperature chart found in the product data sheet.
Will your valve work at a slightly lower temperature than published?
Operating temperature should be within the limits listed in the pressure/temperature chart found in the product data sheet.
What happens if I use your valve at a higher or lower temperature than what you publish in the specifications?
Working temperature should never exceed ratings listed in the pressure /temperature charts found in the product data sheet.
Do you supply plumbing fittings?
We do not sell plumbing fittings. These are usually readily available from pipe and fittings suppliers.
Do you sell pipe and pipe flanges?
We do not sell pipe or pipe flanges. These are usually readily available from pipe and fitting suppliers.
I ordered the wrong solenoid voltage, how do I change the voltage?
Return the valve for credit and purchase correct valve or purchase new replacement coils for existing pilot valves, if that is easier.
Do you offer direct mount solenoid valves with dual coils (solenoids)?
No, user might look at the Asco brand. Most Asco Namur valves will direct mount to Valworx air actuators.
How do I order a 2-way on-off air actuated spring return valve setup to fail open, rather than the standard fail closed?
Request this by noting the actuated valve(s) requiring this option while placing your order (Comments or Instructions in the Shopping Cart).
Is it possible to change (in the field) the 2-way on-off air actuated spring return valve from the standard fail closed to Fail Open?
Yes, the valve can be easily changed from fail closed to fail open by removing the valve from the actuator, rotating the valve stem 90 degrees and reassembling. Remove yellow indicator inserts and move to match new position.
Manual Valves
Can I run slightly over the published pressure rating of the valve?
Operating pressure should be non-shock and within the limits listed in the pressure-temperature chart found in the product data sheet.
Can you supply position confirmation switches for manual ball valves?
Yes, see "Valve Limit Switches" accessory category
What type of pipe flanges do I need for Valworx stainless flanged ball valve?
Industry standard ANSI 150 pound pipe flanges
What type of flanges do I need for Valworx butterfly valves?
Industry standard ANSI 150 pound pipe flanges
What is the difference between wafer and lug butterfly valves?
Wafer valves mount between two flanges and are held in place with through bolts. Lug valves have mounting threads in the valve body and use bolts threaded into the valve body from each side of pipe flanges.
What is an NPT thread?
NPT or National Pipe Thread is the standard pipe thread used in the USA. To I.D. pipe thread size. See technical bulletin "How to I.D. NPT Pipe Sizes"
Do you have any ball valves that do not use Viton seals?
No, not at this time. Most Valworx direct mount ball valves use Teflon and Viton seals due to the extremely good leak free operation.
Can I change the flow path on your 3-way T port valve?
Yes, basically just remove the handle, rotate square stem to desired flow path and reassemble handle.
What is the ISO5211 mounting pattern?
ISO5211 is the International standard for actuator to valve mounting . Most Valworx valves utilize the international standard ISO5211 mounting interface. Manual valves are actuator ready, remove the handle and mount the valve directly to a compatible actuator. No additional brackets are required.
How can I tell the flow path of a 3-way valve once it is mounted in the pipe line?
The flow path is marked on top of the square valve stem for easy identification.
Is there a specific flow direction for Valworx ball valves?
Valworx ball valves are bi-directional. You can flow in either direction with our brass, stainless and PVC ball/diaphragm valves.
Is there a specific flow direction for Valworx butterfly valves?
Valworx iron wafer body butterfly valves can flow in either direction. Some lug body valves flow in only one direction. A flow arrow will be located on the valve body indicating flow direction if applicable.
Can you confirm the Valworx valve will work with my fluid media?
Many conditions can affect the valve choice, including, but not limited to; pressure, temperature, chemical mix, material compounding and environment. The user through its own analysis and testing is solely responsible for making the final selection. Our 'Media Compatibility Guide' may be helpful in determining material compatibility. Contacting the fluid manufacturer may also be helpful in determining fluid compatibility.
What is the difference between a 3-way L-port and T-port ball valve?
The ball in the valve is drilled in either an "L" or "T" design. The ball type will define the direction of the flow through the valve.
What type of PVC is used with Valworx PVC ball valves?
Refer to PVC valve data sheets under valve construction
What is the maximum allowable fluid velocity?
Metal valves: 5 to 10 feet/second, closer to 5ft/sec is better
PVC valves: < 5 feet/second
What is the maximum allowable temperature of the fluid media?
Refer to product specifications for each individual valve
Can I use Valworx valves with natural gas? Propane?
Valworx valves do not have any agency approvals for use with propane or natural gas.
Will Valworx valves work with vacuum?
Yes, in most cases, check the valve specification for vacuum rating
What is the maximum temperature rating for the brass/stainless ball valves?
Refer to online product specifications and data sheet
Can I use your PVC valve with compressed air as the process media?
No, PVC valves should not be used with compressed air or gases. PVC valves are primarily used with compatible liquids.
Will your valve work at a slightly lower temperature than published?
No, refer to pressure/temperature chart for minimum ratings
What happens if I use your valve at a higher or lower temperature than what you publish in P/T chart?
Working temperature should never exceed ratings listed in specifica-tions and pressure /temperature charts
Working temperature should never exceed ratings listed in specifica-tions and pressure /temperature charts
We do not sell plumbing fittings. These are readily available from pipe and fittings suppliers. We do offer replacement PVC end connectors as repair parts (see valve product page).
Can I use your PVC valves with sodium hypochlorite?
No, special valve construction is required.