Bürkert (Germany) - For the first time, the intelligent positioners Type 8694 and Type 8791 are also available with an IO-Link interface. Bürkert Fluid Control Systems is the first supplier to offer its customers simple and, at the same time, intelligent networking of control valves at field level. Operating and diagnostic data is therefore always available at process control level and can be utilised for preventive maintenance.

Control valves with positioners are indispensable in the process industry. They are used to control process or auxiliary media, for example during fermentation, separation, filling or cleaning in place (CIP). The positioners Type 8694 and Type 8791 from Bürkert Fluid Control Systems with digital communication IO-Link can now replace analogue pneumatic valve controllers and offer users great added value.

As first positioners with digital communication IO-Link for control valves on the market, they can easily be integrated into standard fieldbus and automation systems with less wiring effort, for instance for accurate control tasks in pharma, biotechnology and food and beverage industries.

Diagnostic data enables optimised quality assurance and preventive maintenance. In addition, parametrisation via IO-Link is enabled. PLC I/O cards for analogue signals are no longer necessary, installation becomes simpler and process reliability increases. In addition to ELEMENT control valve systems and valves with linear and rotary actuators in accordance with IEC534-6 or VDI / VDE 3845, the new IO-Link positioners can also digitally connect hygienic process control valves.

Safe, reliable and easy to maintain:

Reliability and safety are top priorities for control valves in the process industry. The new digital concept offers numerous advantages in this field: On the one hand, it allows fast data exchange from field to process control level, thereby providing exact information on the plant status at all levels. On the other hand, parameterisation can be done either remotely or directly on the device itself on site if required. The current operating status of the positioner and the control valve can be retrieved via the process control system. Thus, in an event of any malfunctions, possible causes and the urgency of repair work can also be clarified remotely by utilizing diagnostic data. Additionally, this effectively supports asset management. Specific device data such as device ID and parameters are centrally stored in the plant to enable automated reparameterisation in an event of device replacement or servicing.

The collected wear parameters, such as travelled valve stroke distance or positioning speed, can also be used to plan maintenance dates in advance and provide the necessary spare parts. This allows for more flexible maintenance planning for a better availability and production.

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Future-proof IO-Link positioners offer new possibilities.

About Bürkert Fluid Control Systems:

Bürkert Fluid Control Systems is one of the world's leading manufacturers of measuring, control and regulating systems for liquids and gases. Bürkert solutions are used in a wide range of industries and applications – ranging from breweries and labs to medical, bio-engineering and aerospace technology. With a portfolio of more than 30,000 products, Bürkert is the only supplier to offer all fluid control system components, from solenoid valves to process and analytical valves, from pneumatic actuators to sensors.

With its headquarters in Ingelfingen in southern Germany, the company has a wide-ranging sales network in 36 countries and more than 3,000 employees worldwide. Bürkert continuously develops customized solutions and innovative products at its five Systemhaus locations in Germany, China, and the USA, and in four research centers.