Petroleum Instrumentation

NGT 160

Basics Instrumentation
Chapter 4
Pneumatic Automatic Controls
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Pneumatic Controls
• Electronic controls, sensors, and measuring
devices are significant developments that have
advanced automation to a new level.
• However, prior to electronic control mechanical
and pneumatic controls were used.
• We have already seen simple examples of
mechanical controls.
• Pneumatic controls are still used and learning
about pneumatic controls leads to a better
understanding of electronic controls.
Pneumatic Controls
• Automatic controls perform self-correcting
functions
• Examples – cruise control and heating and
cooling thermostats
• On the pneumatic side we have pressure
regulators for example
• Pneumatic devices depend on pressure from an
air supply.
• The air supply must be held at a steady value or
other words – the pressure must be regulated
• Two types are used: weight-loaded and spring-
loaded
Weight-loaded regulators
• The diaphragm supports a properly sized weight
which operates a double ported valve plug.
Spring-loaded regulators
• A spring under compression replaces the weight.
• These regulators are simple, light in weight, low
maintenance and reliable.
Pneumatic Controllers (pg. 52-55)
Pneumatic Controllers (pg. 52-55)
Pneumatic Controllers (pg. 52-55)
Pneumatic Controllers (pg. 52-55)
Valve Positioners (pg. 65-67)
• Valve positioners accurately position valves.
• Likewise the force valves with sticky stems or
other problems to assume a precise position.
• An air relay is used to accomplish this.
• A change in the air relay output pressure
repositions the control valve plug.
• In an air relay – a small volume of air actuates
the air relay valve which in turn controls large
volume air impulses to drive the actuator.
• A small volume bellows is used. Nozzle back
pressure actuates the bellows. Which operates a
push rod that operates a special ball-plug valve.
Volume Booster Relays (pg 64)
• There may be a considerable distance between a
controller and the valve to be pneumatically
operated
• Air line resistance and capacity of long
connecting lines can slow valve action to a
considerable degree.
• A booster relay installed at the valve location
overcomes most of the response lag.
Valve Positioners (pg. 65-67)
Valve Positioners (pg. 65-67)