Guide to Selecting Valve Positioners

Release time:

2026-04-07 15:22

  Among the many control applications, valve positioners are one of the most critical accessories for control valves. In particular, when selecting the most suitable—or, in other words, the optimal—valve positioner for a specific application, what factors should be taken into account? Let’s explore this together with our editor!
  1. Can a valve positioner implement “split-range” control? Is implementing “split-range” control easy and convenient?
  The “split-range” function means that the valve positioner responds only to a specific range of the input signal (e.g., 4–12 mA or 0.02–0.06 MPaG). Therefore, with split-range capability, it is possible to use a single input signal to sequentially control two or more control valves according to actual requirements.
  2. Can the zero and span adjustments be completed without opening the cover?
  It is worth noting that, in some cases, this kind of arbitrary adjustment is prohibited to prevent incorrect (or illegal) operations.
  3. What is the stability of the zero point and span?
  If the zero point and span are prone to drift due to changes in temperature, vibration, time, or input pressure, the valve positioner will need to be frequently recalibrated to ensure accurate and reliable stroke operation of the control valve.
  4. What is the accuracy of the valve positioner?
  Ideally, for a given input signal, the internal components of a control valve—such as the valve plug, stem, and seat—should consistently and accurately assume the required position, regardless of the direction of travel or the magnitude of the load acting on these components.
  5. What are the air quality requirements for valve positioners?
  Since only a very small number of air-supply units can provide air that meets the requirements of the ISA standard for instrument-quality air (ISA Standard F7.3), pneumatic (or electro-pneumatic) valve positioners must be capable of withstanding a certain level of dust, moisture, and oil contamination if they are to perform reliably in real-world operating conditions.