Inventors:
Mark D. Berget - Onalaska WI
Dennis L. Manthei - West Salem WI
Assignee:
Gas Research Institute - Chicago IL
International Classification:
F16K 3104
Abstract:
An automatically-calibrating electrically-controlled diaphragm valve actuator has a stepper motor controlled by a controller mechanism for moving the actuator within a diaphragm valve. A reference position indicator is provided to signal the controller mechanism when the valve actuator is at a reference position within the actuator's linear stroke. A method for automatically calibrating an electrically controlled diaphragm valve actuator includes the following steps. The actuator is initially driven to a reference position. Second, the actuator is driven a first number of steps. Third, the actuator is returned to the reference position. Fourth, it is determined whether fall back has occurred. Fifth, a second number of steps is determined based upon whether fall back has occurred. Sixth, the actuator is driven the second number of steps in order to compensate for the fall back.