• COLUMN: MODERN VALVE SOLUTIONS •
Solutions for Actuator Mounting
Misalignment between actuators and valves can reduce system performance, accelerate component wear, and introduce significant operational and safety risks. This article explores the root causes, key indicators, and impact of these failures in industrial valve applications.
• By Bob Donnelly- Vice President of Business Development – Flo-Tite Valves & Controls
Bob Donnelly
Bob Donnelly is the Vice President of Business Development for Flo-Tite Valves & Controls.
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COLUMN
There are a variety of reasons why actuated valves leak, cause parts to wear prematurely, and create hard-to-determine issues in process control operations.
One frequent problem is not aligning the actuator properly with the valve stem or body. As a result, it can cause costly downtime and prevent the process control system from operating efficiently.
There are many reasons for misalignment, including:
• Improper installation and testing,
• Mechanical stress.
• Using improper brackets.
• Temperature variations( this can also affect metal parts).
When an actuator is misaligned, it is not able to force the valve to its fully closed position, leaving a small space for materials to escape.
Leaks within an actuated valve may not be immediately detectable, but over time, they can result in serious health and liability issues.
Improper alignment causes unnecessary friction and heat as well since the system works harder to move the valve. Seals and bearings wear out faster, and their actual cycle life can be limited to half, even by the smallest misalignments.
Primary safety risks arise during emergencies when misaligned actuators may prevent valves from operating quickly as needed. This can create serious hazards for facilities as they may be unable to shut off the flow of a critical compound in time.
Warning signs include:
• The valves are not functioning properly.
• The actuator doesn’ t respond immediately when you send a signal.
• The valve remains in one position and will not move.
Primary safety risks arise during emergencies, when misaligned actuators may prevent valves from operating quickly as needed.
Valve World Americas | June 2026 | www. valve-world-americas. com