FAQ

A portable valve actuator, also known as a valve exercizer, is a compact and mobile device used to operate manual valves (opening and closing) in various industrial sectors.

It improves operational efficiency, reduces physical effort for operators, and enhances safety, while providing a cost-effective and flexible alternative to fixed valve actuators, which are often expensive and complex to install.

There are three main categories of portable actuators, each with its own advantages:

• Pneumatic actuators: powered by compressed air, are both lightweight and powerful — making them ideal for use in sensitive, flammable, or explosive environments. They are ATEX certified.
• Electric actuators: powered by a battery or a mains power supply, these actuators offer a balance between power and practicality. They are versatile and can be used for various valve operations across different industrial sectors.
• Petrol actuators: provide long autonomy, making them ideal for remote areas or locations without access to electricity. They are often used in applications related to the management of canals or reservoirs for irrigation, agriculture, or flood control.

Selecting the right portable valve actuator depends on various factors:

• the required torque (If you don’t have this information, you can use our simple torque estimator tool to quickly determine the required torque.)
• available power source,
• operating environment,
• frequency of use,
• cost,
• and additional features

By considering these factors, you can choose the best actuator for your specific needs and ensure safe and efficient valve operation.

modec motorized valve exerciser are compatible with most industrial valves equipped with a manual operating mechanism (handwheel, crank, square drive).

They can be used on various valve types such as butterfly valves, ball valves, gate valves, and knife gate valves...

Designed to replace the operator’s physical effort, they are easy to install thanks to modec universal adaptors, offering high flexibility.

modec portable valve actuators are not limited by valve diameter. They can be used on both small-diameter valves and large-diameter valves, including valves over 1,000 mm (39 inches)

As long as the valve operation is manual, modec motorized valve movers are able to open and close the valve efficiently, without difficulty, using the appropriate tool and accessory.

modec valve exercisers can be used on motorized valves as a backup solution in the event of a power failure or during maintenance operations.

These valves generally require a large number of turns to be operated, which makes the actuator particularly useful for saving time and reducing operator fatigue.

modec pneumatic actuators:

• No heat, spark or smoke
• ATEX certified
• High torque and speed
• Light & compact
• Jam & blockage resistant

modec electric actuators:

• Excellent autonomy
• Smoke free
• Easy implementation
• Integrated electronic torque & power limiter

modec gas actuators:

• Unlimited autonomy
• Ideal for remote environments

The speed range of a portable valve actuator is very wide. The selected speed will depend on the application and specific needs. It can vary from just a few revolutions per minute to several hundred revolutions per minute.

Refer to products specifications or consult our experts for more information.

They improve operational efficiency by ensuring fast and precise valve opening and closing, while reducing manual effort. Thanks to the absence of mechanical shocks and the use of an integrated torque limiter, they help protect the valves and extend their service life.

They also enhance operational safety, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and represent a cost-effective alternative to expensive fixed actuators. In addition, their ease of use allows valves to be operated and maintained more frequently, improving overall reliability.

No, portable valve exercisers do not damage valves. On the contrary, they help keep valves in good condition by enabling more regular and compliant valve operations.

They ensure controlled and safe valve operation thanks to precise torque adjustment, apply no impact or vibration to the valve, and allow accurate speed control, helping to prevent water hammer.

• Operator Training: Ensure that operators are well-trained and familiar with the specific Portable Valve Actuator model they are using.
  • Torque reaction system: Install and check the selected torque reaction system, ensuring that no force or resistance is required from the operator and that the system is stable.
  • Valve Position Verification: Before activating the PVA, double-check the valve's current position (open or closed). This prevents unintended movement and potential damage to the valve or connected equipment.
  • Environmental Factors: Consider the environmental conditions before operating the PVA. Factors like extreme temperatures, wet or slippery surfaces, or hazardous atmospheres may require additional precautions.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always use appropriate PPE, such as safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots, when operating a PVA.

modec offers a wide range of adapters designed to fit most types of valves, including flat handwheel valves, conical handwheel valves, square drives, and rising stem valves.

To select the most suitable modec adaptor, you can refer to the adaptor selection guide, which helps you quickly identify the compatible solution for your valve configuration.

Video tutorials are also available on the modec YouTube channel, guiding you step by step through installation and use.

You can also contact our team of experts and request a free on-site demo.

Portable valve actuators require little to no maintenance :

• For pneumatic portable valve actuators, only the vanes and a few bearings need to be replaced once a year (cost < €100).
• For electric or battery-powered actuators, a service is recommended every year or every 500 operating hours, either by your distributor or directly by the manufacturer.

These maintenance operations take only a few tens of minutes and ensure that your portable valve actuators retain their original performance and maximize their service life.

modec portable valve actuators can help to free a stuck valve thanks to a torque of up to 1,000 Nm.

However, their primary function is to replace human effort for the safe and controlled operation of manual valves. If a higher torque is required, it is generally preferable to replace the valve or gearbox rather than force the equipment.

A torque reaction system is used to absorb the reaction force generated when operating a valve with a portable actuator, protecting both the operator and the equipment.

It generally consists of a rigid arm attached to an anchoring point, which transfers the force without effort for the operator. modec offers several solutions adapted to different environments.