Servicing

Electrical actuator service and maintenance plans:
Type A Service: 6 Monthly Service and Inspection

1. Obtain a Permit to Work from plant
2. Collection and analysis of operational data from actuator through the data logger.
3. Test Bus communication systems for communications, resistance measurements, capacitance and/or leakage etc. and the results are used to dentify weaknesses which can then be rectified.
4. External visual inspection of all external surfaces including paint finishes, control knobs and valve stems.
5. The oil level is checked and replenished if necessary.
6. Mounting bolts, nuts, washers and screws are checked for damage and tightness.
7. Confirmation that hand wheel operation is possible and that there is physical movement of the valve if operations allow.
8. Confirmation that local control works in both directions whilst checking for any signs of deterioration (e.g. undue motor noise).
9. Where available (through data loggers) historic performance data is investigated and compared against stored data logger profiles.
10. The terminal cover is removed and the connections are checked for tightness. Additionally, the compartment is checked for water ingress and corrective action taken as necessary.
11. The “o”ringseal is replaced and if it is an Explosion proof type actuator, the integrity of flame path is inspected.
12. The motor cover is removed and the motor is checked. The case is checked for any ingress of moisture. The “o”ring seal is replaced and if it is an Explosion proof type actuator, the integrity of the flame path is inspected.
13. The electrical cover is removed and the compartment is checked for any ingress of moisture. The status of switches, contactors and lectrical apparel are checked. Explosion Proof actuator the integrity of the flame path is inspected. The “o”ring seal is replaced and if it is an Explosion proof type actuator, the integrity of the flame path is inspected.
14. All cover screws are greased to enable ease for future removal and protect them from corrosion.
15. On completion both local and remote operation are checked together with the Customer operatives.
16. Check the mode operation button or selector switch
17. Switch the actuator in the manual position and operate the valve the full stroke open and close.
19. Check that the limit switches are set to the correct open and close positions
20. Clean the spindle
21. Check the drive nut on the spindle for wear.
22. Lubricate the spindle.
23. Ensure the spindle sleeve is not damaged, cracked or broken and the top is sealed with a cap preventing water and dust ingress.
24. Check if fitted, the internal battery voltage and replace if required. In the case of electrical actuators with internal batteries the attery condition is checked and it is replaced based on condition.
25. Set the unit into the automatic position and ensure the operation is as per the operating procedures, paying particular attention to the frequency of operations. Too many partial open and close operations may indicate a control system problem.
26. Operate the hand wheel if fitted, to ensure the clutch mechanism is operating and releasing.
27. Ensure the IP 66 glands are correctly fitted if the unit is underground and in a position of potential water ingress.
28. Ensure all other orifices are sealed from water, dust and moisture ingress.
29. DEMCA to complete and submit to client both Corrective Maintenance Report and a Preventative Maintenance Activity Report

Type B Service:
Basic electric actuator Service and Inspection

1. Obtain a Permit to Work from plant
2. Functionality test.
3. Electrically and mechanically disconnect and remove the electrical actuator.
4. When an on-site condition assessment warrants an off-site workshop service such as damage to the actuator and/or mechanical such as worn gears and shafts, mechanical housing etc., remove the actuator from site and transport to DEMCA workshop facility.
5. Strip and asses the condition of the unit stripped.
6. Clean the spindle
7. Lubricate the spindle
8. Ensure the spindle sleeve is not damaged, cracked or broken and the top is sealed with a cap preventing water and dust ingress.
9. Replace the drive nut on the spindle.
10. If fitted, replace the internal battery.
11. Re – assemble actuator.
12. Re – test actuator to verify functionality and correct output torque.
13. Supply customer with test certificate.
14. Respray actuator to customer spec.
15. Standard parts to include in the service:
a) Seal and bearing kit
b) 9VDC Display backup battery
c) Oil SAE80 or OEM recommended lubricant (Electric Actuators)
16. Test the unit at DEMCA’s workshop and issue a maintenance report.
17. Mechanically install
18. Electrically connect ensuring all cable terminations are well sealed and in good condition.
19. Check the mode operation button or selector switch
20. Switch the actuator in the manual position and operate the valve the full stroke open and close.
21. Check and test the stop buttons between the open and close cycle.
22. Check that the limit switches are set to the correct open and close positions
23. Set the unit into the automatic position and ensure the operation is as per the operating procedures paying particular attention to the frequency of operations. Too many partial open and close operations may indicate a control system problem
24. Operate the hand wheel if fitted, to ensure the clutch mechanism is operating releasing.
25. Ensure the IP 67 glands are correctly fitted if the unit is underground and in a position of potential water ingress.
26. Ensure all other orifices are sealed from water, dust and moisture ingress.
27. DEMCA to provide a Corrective Maintenance report.

Spares

DEMCA keep a comprehensive spares holding, in both Cape Town and Gauteng – including new actuators which are held in stock for customers who place orders on a regular basis. In the event that a particular item is not available ex-stock, parts are airfreighted from the original manufacturers with a typical delivery time of 1 week from date of order.