Automated Valves for Remote & Process Control
Automated valves pair a valve body with a pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic actuator so the valve can open, close, or throttle flow on a signal from a control system rather than a hand on the valve. Automated control valves are used wherever a process needs remote operation, fast cycling, precise positioning, or integration with a PLC or DCS for coordinated system control.
Specifying an automated valve correctly means matching actuator torque or thrust to the valve's operating conditions, selecting fail open or fail closed behavior appropriate to the process, and confirming the control signal type the actuator will receive. Automated valves reduce manual intervention, support consistent process control, and enable remote or emergency shutdown from a control room. These valves are suitable for new automation projects, retrofits of manually operated lines, and replacement of failed actuated valve assemblies.
Shop Relevant supplies automated valves built on ball, butterfly, and globe style bodies, matched with pneumatic actuators for fast, reliable on off or fail safe operation and electric actuators where running power is unavailable for compressed air. The category covers both simple two position automated valves for isolation service and modulating configurations for continuous process control. Ships same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an automated valve and a control valve?
All control valves used for automatic operation are automated valves, but the term automated valve also covers simple two position on off valves, while a control valve more specifically refers to a valve designed to modulate and precisely regulate flow, pressure, or level.
What is fail safe operation on an automated valve?
Fail safe, or fail open and fail closed, describes how a valve moves if it loses its air or electric supply. A spring return actuator drives the valve to its safe position automatically, which is important for valves tied to safety or emergency shutdown functions.
Should I choose a pneumatic or electric actuator?
Pneumatic actuators are common where compressed air is already available and fast, reliable cycling or fail safe spring return is needed, while electric actuators are a better fit when no air supply is present or when precise positioning without air consumption is required.
Can an existing manual valve be converted to an automated valve?
Many ball and butterfly valve bodies can be fitted with an actuator mounting kit to become automated valves, as long as the valve stem and mounting pad match a standard actuator interface, though larger or older valves sometimes require replacement instead.
