Operating Principle and Technical Features of the Positioners
1. Input and Output Signals
Input signal: analogue setpoint signal 4–20 mA or 0–10V from the PLC or DCS.
Output signal: proportional pneumatic pressure to drive the actuator. Single-acting (SR) actuators receive one pressure signal; double-acting (DA) actuators receive two opposing pressure signals.
Feedback: analogue position signal 4–20 mA back to the control system. All three brands furthermore support the HART protocol for digital communication over the analogue loop.
2. Automatic Self-Tuning (Autotune)
Application: initial commissioning and recalibration for all three brands.
Advantages: the positioner automatically drives the actuator to both end positions, determines stroke time, dead band, friction and optimal control parameters. Manual tuning is consequently not required. Commissioning time is significantly reduced.
Limitations: under extreme process conditions (very high friction, unstable air supply), manual fine-tuning may additionally be required.
3. Communication Interfaces
HART: available on SIEMENS, PMV and BÜRKERT. Enables remote configuration, diagnostics and parameter readout via the existing 4–20 mA wiring.
Profibus PA / Foundation Fieldbus: optionally available on the SIEMENS SIPART PS2 for full digital integration with the control system.
All three systems consequently enable integration into asset management systems for predictive maintenance and diagnostics.
4. Protection and ATEX Certification
Protection: IP66/67 on all three brands for use in dusty and wet environments.
ATEX: the SIEMENS SIPART PS2 is certified per the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU for Zone 1/2 (gas) and Zone 21/22 (dust). PMV and BÜRKERT also offer ATEX versions for selected models.
Limitations: ATEX versions require project-specific engineering and ordering.
5. Mounting per IEC 60534-6 / NAMUR
Application: direct mounting on pneumatic linear and quarter-turn actuators.
Advantages: the standardised mounting interface per IEC 60534-6 and NAMUR ensures compatibility with actuators from various manufacturers. Mounting kits for the most common actuator types are furthermore available from Fergo stock.
Limitations: for non-standard actuator interfaces, a custom mounting kit is required.
