GS 112-2

Guidance for Specification GS 112-2

ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED
VALVE ACTUATORS FOR
INTERMITTENT OPERATION OF
ISOLATION VALVES
November 1992
Amended May 1993

Copyright The British Petroleum Company p.l.c.

Copyright The British Petroleum Company p.l.c.

All rights reserved. The information contained in this document is
subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement or contract
under which the document was supplied to the recipient's
organisation. None of the information contained in this document
shall be disclosed outside the recipient's own organisation without
the prior written permission of Manager, Standards, BP
International Limited, unless the terms of such agreement or
contract expressly allow.

BP GROUP RECOMMENDED PRACTICES AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR ENGINEERING

Issue Date
Doc. No.

GS 112-2

Latest Amendment Date

November 1992
May 1993

Document Title

ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED

VALVE ACTUATORS FOR
INTERMITTENT OPERATION OF
ISOLATION VALVES
(Replaces BP Engineering Standard 152)

APPLICABILITY
Regional Applicability:

International

SCOPE AND PURPOSE

This document specifies the general requirements for electric motor operated valve
(MOV) actuators with integral control equipment, which are required to operate isolation
valves.
The derived Specification together with completed data sheets would form the technical
basis for enquiry or purchase of electric MOV actuators.

AMENDMENTS
Amd
Date
Page(s)
Description
___________________________________________________________________
1
May 1993
2
2.4.3 amended to clarify material
requirements
1
May 1993
10
Data Sheet includes material
exceptions

CUSTODIAN (See Quarterly Status List for Contact)

Control and Electrical Systems, ESS

Issued by:-

Engineering Practices Group, BP International Limited, Research & Engineering Centre

Chertsey Road, Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, TW16 7LN, UNITED KINGDOM
Tel: +44 1932 76 4067
Fax: +44 1932 76 4077
Telex: 296041

CONTENTS
Section

Page

FOREWORD .........................................................................................................................iii
1. SCOPE................................................................................................................................1
2. GENERAL .........................................................................................................................1
2.1 Explosion Protection Standards...............................................................................1
2.2 Certification for Use in Hazardous Areas.................................................................1
2.3 Environmental Protection........................................................................................2
2.4 Materials.................................................................................................................2
2.5 Documentation .......................................................................................................2
2.6 Spares 3
3. DESIGN REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................................3
3.1 Motor 3
3.2 Hammer Blow Feature ............................................................................................4
3.3 Motor Control ........................................................................................................4
3.4 Motor Protection ....................................................................................................4
3.5 Phase Sequence Detection.......................................................................................5
3.6 Short Circuit Protection ..........................................................................................5
3.7 Control Circuit Protection.......................................................................................5
3.8 Hand Operation ......................................................................................................5
3.9 Control Features .....................................................................................................6
3.10 Indication..............................................................................................................7
3.11 Remote Control ....................................................................................................8
3.12 Integral Equipment................................................................................................8
3.13 Mating Details.......................................................................................................9
3.14 Lubrication ...........................................................................................................9
3.15 Gearbox................................................................................................................9
3.16 Anti-condensation Heater......................................................................................9
3.17 Cables...................................................................................................................9
3.18 Lifting Eyes...........................................................................................................9
3.19 Painting.................................................................................................................10
3.20 Labels10
4. TESTING ...........................................................................................................................11
4.1 Type Tests ..............................................................................................................11
4.2 Routine Tests..........................................................................................................11
4.3 Test Certificates......................................................................................................11
5. DATA SHEET....................................................................................................................12
APPENDIX A.........................................................................................................................14
DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS....................................................................14
APPENDIX B.........................................................................................................................15

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE i

LIST OF REFERENCED DOCUMENTS ....................................................................15

APPENDIX C .........................................................................................................................16
SUPPLEMENTARY COMMENTARY ...........................................................................16
C1 REMOTE INDICATION...................................................................................................16
C2 COMPLETION OF DATA SHEET ..................................................................................17
C2.1 General................................................................................................................17
C2.2 Specific Items .......................................................................................................17
FIGURE 1 - ............................................................................................................................19
TYPICAL INDICATION UTILISING EXACT LIMIT SWITCHES ...........................19
FIGURE 2 - ............................................................................................................................19
TYPICAL INDICATION UTILISING AUXILIARY SWITCHES...............................19

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE ii

FOREWORD
Introduction to BP Group Recommended Practices and Specifications for Engineering
The Introductory volume contains a series of documents that provide an introduction to the
BP Group Recommended Practices and Specifications for Engineering (RPSEs). In particular,
the 'General Foreword' sets out the philosophy of the RPSEs. Other documents in the
Introductory volume provide general guidance on using the RPSEs and background
information to Engineering Standards in BP. There are also recommendations for specific
definitions and requirements.
Value of this Guidance for Specification
Motor operated valve actuators are required for use in Zone 1, Zone 2 as well as nonhazardous areas. Experience indicates that a single type (Zone 1) is commonly used in all
areas. This Guidance for Specification reflects this standardisation and will bring benefits in
purchasing, installing, commissioning, operating and maintaining this equipment.
Application
This Guidance for Specification is intended to guide the purchaser in the use or creation of a
fit-for-purpose specification for enquiry or purchasing activity.
Text in italics is Commentary. Commentary provides background information which supports
the requirements of the Specification, and may discuss alternative options. It also gives
guidance on the implementation of any 'Specification' or 'Approval' actions; specific actions are
indicated by an asterisk (*) preceding a paragraph number.
This document may refer to certain local, national or international regulations but the
responsibility to ensure compliance with legislation and any other statutory requirements lies
with the user. The user should adapt or supplement this document to ensure compliance for
the specific application.
Specification Ready for Application
A Specification (BP Spec 112-2) is available which may be suitable for enquiry or purchasing
without modification. It is derived from this BP Group Guidance for Specification by
retaining the technical body unaltered but omitting all commentary, omitting the data page and
inserting a modified Foreword.
Principal Changes from Previous Edition
This Guidance for Specification is an update of BP Engineering Standard 152 (last revised in
1982). It has been revised to reflect the growing trend of specifying a single type of unit
(Zone 1) for use in all hazardous areas. The revised document is based on current practices
within BP, and reflects the principle designs of the major manufacturers of this equipment.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE iii

Feedback and Further Information

Users are invited to feed back any comments and to detail experiences in the application of
BP RPSE's, to assist in the process of their continuous improvement.
For feedback and further information, please contact Standards Group, BP International or the
Custodian. See Quarterly Status List for contacts.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE iv

1.

SCOPE
This Specification gives BP general requirements for electric motor operated valve
actuators with integral control equipment, which are required to operate isolation
valves on an intermittent basis. It does not cover the valves themselves. BP Group
GS 130-6 entitled 'General Specification for Actuators for Shut-off Valves' gives
requirements for actuators and ancillary equipment for shut-off valves.
A sample Data Sheet, for completion by purchaser and manufacturer(s), is attached to
this Specification.
The Data Sheet for the valve actuator should be completed by the Purchaser. Information relating to
the valve should be extracted from its specification.

2.

GENERAL
2.1

Explosion Protection Standards

The minimum explosion protection standard for all electric MOV
actuators covered by this specification shall be Ex d, gas group IIB,
temperature class T3 in accordance with IEC 79-1 (or EN 50014 and
EN 50018). This is applicable to MOV actuators for use in safe, zone 2
and zone 1 hazardous areas.
This Specification assumes that the hazardous area in which the MOV
actuator is to be installed is no more onerous than Zone 1, IIB, T3.
Where the hazardous area is more onerous (e.g. hydrogen duty) then
this should be specified in the Data Sheets.
The actuator type has been standardised to allow a single unit to be used almost
universally across the whole of a plant. In doing this, time will be saved in its
selection, purchasing and installation. The cost differential between Ex'd' actuators
and Ex'n' or those for non-hazardous duties is marginal. The intent of this is aimed
primarily at the bulk purchase of MOV's. Single units may be specified for their
individual application requirements.
Maintenance routines for equipment should reflect the hazardous area in which the
equipment is installed.

2.2

Certification for Use in Hazardous Areas

All types of motor valve actuator shall have been appropriately certified
by a National Certifying Authority.
Copies of all the relevant certification documents shall be submitted by
the manufacturer with the tender.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 1

2.3

Environmental Protection
The actuator enclosure shall provide ingress protection to IEC 529
designation IP 65, as a minimum. Unless otherwise specified in the
Data Sheet, the ambient temperature shall be taken as 40C.
An IP 65 enclosure protection will meet the vast majority of applications. This is
now the standard to which manufacturers conform to. It allows further
standardisation of the MOV actuator across whole plant sites.

2.4

Materials

2.4.1

Materials used in the construction of the MOV actuator assembly shall

be selected to prevent galvanic corrosion.

2.4.2

All materials in contact with the hydraulic fluid shall be compatible with
the fluid and any additives contained within it.

2.4.3

The Vendor shall identify all ther materials used in the construction of
the actuators.
The data sheet will list materials which shall not form part of the
actuator construction.
Consideration should be given to the materials used in the construction of MOV
actuators.
Grey cast iron is vulnerable to shock loading and has low impact strength. It is
however generally used as the standard material for the main actuator gearcase.
This, in all but special applications, shall be acceptable.
Malleable iron has a better impact strength than grey cast iron due to heat
treatment, but establishing whether heat treatment has been effective without
destroying the component is very difficult. This material is however generally used
for the actuator thrust base. This, in all but special applications, shall also be
acceptable.

2.5

Documentation
Documentation requirements should be discussed and agreed with the
manufacturer. This includes both scope and timing.
The minimum requirements are as follows:(i)

Completed data sheet.

(ii)

Wiring diagram.

(iii)

Installation, operation and maintenance instructions.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 2

(iv)

Hazardous area certification.

(v)
(vi)

Type test certificates.

Routine test certificates.

(vii)

Spares.

(viii)

Valve/actuator assembly drawing.

The 'Installation, operation and maintenance instructions' should identify any

critical tasks which have to be performed.
In cases where the actuator is purchased by the valve manufacturer, the valve
manufacturer should be made responsible for providing the drawing showing the
overall dimensions of the valve/actuator assembly.

2.6

Spares
The manufacturer shall forward to BP, within the time specified in the
requisition, a full list of the recommended spares for the following two
applications:-

3.

(i)

initial installation, commissioning and 6 months operating spares

(ii)

5 years operating spares.

DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
3.1

Motor
Actuator motors shall be suitable for direct-on-line starting. The
minimum class of insulation shall be Class B and in all cases the
temperature rise shall be limited to the value specified in IEC 34-1 for
Class B insulation. Motors shall be of the squirrel cage induction type
unless agreed otherwise.
The motor shall be sized to provide the required seating torque of the
valve with the incoming actuator terminal voltage assumed to be 10%
less than the nominal supply voltage. The motor shall also be sized to
ensure that actuator or valve damage cannot be incurred as a result of
limit switch failure.
Actuator motor rating shall be Type S3 to IEC 34-1 where N = 15
mins. or the time required to perform the specified number of
consecutive complete operations, whichever is the greater, and N + R =
60 mins. A complete operation is defined as an OPEN/CLOSE
movement of the valve with full operating pressure applied, and the
load shall be that required by the valve.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 3

In the vast majority of cases, squirrel cage induction type motors should be used.
However, there is a growing trend for small (i.e. less than 1000 Nm torque output)
part-turn valve actuator motors to be dc operated. Consideration should be given to
this alternative.
Actuator motors are generally capable of delivering their rated performance under
terminal voltage conditions of 90% of nominal voltage. The power supply should be
designed therefore to limit the voltage drop at the valve actuator to 10% of the
nominal value. Calculations should be based on the motor locked rotor current.
*

Where the actuator is to be enclosed by a fire protection package, the air

temperature of the actuator enclosure will increase. The motor rating may thus
differ from that for an unenclosed duty and a larger motor may be required. To
ensure that adequate attention is paid to these factors, the specifying engineer
should, in these circumstances, indicate clearly in the Data Sheet that the motor
should be satisfactory for location in a fire protected enclosure. Additionally,
consideration should be given to cases where process heat transfer via the valve
yoke to the actuator may occur. In such cases cooling ribbons may be provided.
However, these should not be enclosed in the fire protection package.

3.2

Hammer Blow Feature

The actuator shall include a lost-motion hammer blow feature to allow
the motor or handwheel to accelerate and assist in unseating the valve.

3.3

Motor Control
Direct-on-line, triple pole, reversing type contactors with mechanical
and electrical interlocks to prevent their simultaneous closure, shall be
provided for actuator motor control, unless agreed otherwise. The
contactors shall be in accordance with IEC 947-4 minimum duty class
0.3 and minimum utilisation category AC-3.
An integral transformer shall be provided in the actuator to supply
control circuit power to the contactor coils. The internal control
voltage shall be 120/110 volts, unless agreed otherwise and the
contactor shall incorporate an inherent undervoltage release feature.

In some cases, the control voltage for the plant in which the actuator will be
installed, may differ from the Standard value of 120/110V. It is not sufficient, in
this case, to make use of a 'remarks' item on the Data Sheet to modify the control
voltage. A non-Standard control voltage must be detailed on the purchase
requisition.
In exceptional cases where dc operated motors are used as detailed in 3.1 above,
the control voltage may be 24 Vdc. Detailed consideration should be given to the
acceptability of this, especially regarding the interfacing with remote control
equipment.

3.4

Motor Protection
The actuator motor stator shall be provided with thermostats to open
the contactors on excess winding temperature with self-resetting
lockout features. (Hand resetting should be considered for exceptional
cases only.)

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 4

The normal arrangement should be for thermostat protection of the motor to be self
reset. In this manner, the hammer blow feature will be used repeatedly each time
the motor automatically starts and 'sticky' valves may be freed. On less important
duty applications or where the valve may be subject to serious sticking (and
therefore frequent maintenance), motor life may be prolonged by making the
thermostat hand reset. In this application the operation of the thermostat detection
should be alarmed remotely.

3.5

Phase Sequence Detection

A facility shall be provided to inhibit actuator energisation if incorrect
phase rotation exists, or if one phase is disconnected.
Phase sequence detection prevents any attempt at 'single phasing' of the actuator
motor. Where large numbers of actuators are looped on a single supply cable, itself
protected, phase sequence detection could be utilised to prevent sequential single
phasing operation and subsequent thermal tripping of the actuator motors.
Looped supplies may also be more vulnerable to phase sequence reversal as
additions or maintenance is carried out. Additionally, a reversed phase sequence
supply would cause the motor to run in the opposite direction. Thus when a 'close'
signal is given, the contactor would close and the motor would travel in the 'open'
direction. Since the contactor is sealed in by contactor auxiliary switches and endof-travel limit switches for the 'closed' direction, the motor could jam resulting in
significant damage to the valve. A phase sequence detection relay may be used to
eliminate these possibilities.
In some cases, manufacturers supply a device as standard which ensures that the
motor runs with the correct rotation for the direction of valve travel, with either
phase sequence of the three phase power supply connected to the actuator. This is
preferred.

3.6

Short Circuit Protection

Actuator short circuit protection using HRC fuse-links complying with
IEC 269 will be provided by others at the remote end of the power
supply cable.

3.7

Control Circuit Protection

The control circuit shall be provided with HRC fuse-links complying
with IEC 269.

3.8

Hand Operation
The actuator shall be suitable for hand operation and shall incorporate a
device to disengage the handwheel automatically as electrical power
operation is applied.
Hand operation may be used for checking the limit switch settings.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 5

3.9

Control Features
Local/off/remote selector switches shall be provided. These shall be
pad lockable.
The setting feature for all limit and additional auxiliary switches shall
include means for checking the operating point against the valve
position, without opening the Exd enclosure.
The actuator shall also include:-

(a)

Torque limiting switches for each direction of valve travel to

ensure complete seating of the valve. They shall be adjustable
over a small range and calibrated to suit the valve manufacturers
safe loading torque. Means shall be provided to prevent the
open torque protection tripping during initial unseating.

(b)

End-of-travel switches (as required by the type of valve) and

additional switches adjustable over a range (open and close) to
suit the control and indication requirements specified in the Data
Sheet.

(c)

For each direction of travel one normally open and one normally
closed spare end-of-travel limit switch. These shall be additional
to any other requirements.

(d)

Control circuits which shall be suitable for either maintained or

fleeting initiation for open/close operation.

The control features specified above are consistent with those normally available
from acceptable actuator manufacturers. Where a particular application requires
control arrangements outside the provisions of the Specification, this may be best
achieved in a separate control scheme, incorporating the manufacturer's normal
provisions.

3.10

Indication

3.10.1

Local Indication
A local mechanical position indicator shall be provided, to indicate the
valve position. The indicator shall show 'open', 'closed' or 'in transit'
position.
Where local indication of the intermediate valve position is required,
this shall be identified on the data sheet.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 6

3.10.2

Remote Indication
The following features shall be available as an integral part of the
actuator circuitry:(a)

Valve fully seated (preferred) or end position indication

Basic provisions for remote indication shall be 'valve open',
'valve closed', and 'valve in transit'. Contact sequence shall be as
specified in the Data Sheet, and arranged for 4-wire connection.
Valve fully seated indication shall be provided whenever
practicable. Where provision of this indication is not practicable,
the manufacturer may employ end position indication by
auxiliary limit switches.
In such cases however, the
manufacturer shall interconnect the valve end position switch
contacts with the contactor auxiliary contacts, to ensure that a
remote indication is delayed until the contactor has been opened
by the travel limit or torque switches.

(b)
*

Valve intermediate position indication

Where specified in the Data Sheet, a potentiometer shall be
provided to facilitate remote position indication at intermediate
points during valve travel.

See Appendix C1 for Commentary.

3.10.3

Alarm Indication
The indication facilities of the actuator shall include a monitoring relay
system, integral to the actuator, arranged to detect the following
conditions:(a)

Loss of control supply.

(b)

Motor thermostat trip.

(c)

Local/remote switch set to 'local'.

(d)

Phase sequence detector operation.

Common remote alarm indication shall be provided by changeover

contacts.
Where valves are on high security duty, individual alarm initiation can be
arranged. Common alarm provision may be made for valves on general duty.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 7

The remote alarm indication contact is standardised as a changeover type. Such

provision ensures that the actuator can provide alarm contacts for either an 'open'
or 'closed' indication.
All actuators should be standardised with the inclusion of indication monitoring
relays. Their use at site needs to be considered for each installation. However it is
recommended that as a minimum the facility be used wherever the position of the
valve is indicated remotely.

3.10.4

The rated thermal/breaking capacities of all volt-free contacts (used for

control, indication or alarm) need to be rated for their application.
Without additional information, they should be specified as:1A at 500 V ac and 0.3 pf
1A at 110 V dc inductive
2A at 60 V dc inductive

3.11

Remote Control
The power source for interposing relays shall be agreed with the
actuator manufacturer.

Where interposing relays are specified in the Data Sheet to be energised

from a remote supply, these relays shall be connected to interpose
between that remote control circuit and the actuator control circuit.
Where interposing relays are specified in the Data Sheet to be energised
from the actuator control circuit, reference shall be made to a separate
data sheet or attachment to the Specification to identify the required
quantity, configuration and rating of the relay contacts.
Interposing relay coils shall be suitable for continuous operation from 20% to +10% of the specified voltage.
3.12

Integral Equipment
All equipment shall be designed to provide adequate accessibility for
maintenance. Where draw out components are used, access to
components shall be possible without the need to disconnect incoming
supply conductors.

3.13

Mating Details
All aspects for valve/actuator mating shall be in accordance with ISO
5210 and 5211.

3.14

Lubrication
The actuator may be oil or grease lubricated without any restriction on
mounting attitude.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 8

3.15

Gearbox
Full details of any separate second stage gearbox shall be furnished by
the manufacturer (if procured by the actuator supplier).

3.16

Anti-condensation Heater
An anti-condensation heater shall be provided only at the discretion of
the actuator manufacturer to ensure satisfactory operation under the
specified operating conditions.
When supplied, the anti-condensation heater shall operate from the
control circuit transformer.

3.17
*

Cables
Full details of the external power, control and earthing cables will be
specified by the purchaser in the Data Sheet. All glands will be provided
by others.
In all cases, unused cable entries shall be provided with certified
stopping plugs, to meet the requirements of clauses 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4.
Other entries shall be sealed against environmental damage with
disposable plastic plugs.
A secure means of terminating the bonding conductor shall be provided.
Unless specified otherwise, the bonding conductor terminal shall be
external to the terminal box. Where such provision is a threaded stud
then nuts, washers and locking nuts/devices shall be provided.
Internal cables shall be clearly identified by a suitable numbering system
which is cross referenced to the wiring diagrams.

3.18

Lifting Eyes
Where specified actuators shall be fitted with certified and tested lifting
eyes. Alternatively, slinging points should be clearly identified such that
over-stressing of the assembly does not occur during lifting and control
components are not damaged.
EEC Directive 90/269/EEC 'On the minimum health and safety requirements for the
manual handling of loads where there is a risk of back injury to workers' requires
that hazardous manual handling should be avoided where possible.

3.19

Painting
External surfaces shall be prepared and painted in accordance with BP
Group GS 106-2
Where a special environment is specified in the Data Sheet, the
manufacturer shall identify those elements of the proposed paint
specification which provide for this environment.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 9

The manufacturer's standard painting system needs to be sought and wherever

possible accepted.
Where large numbers of valves and actuators are being purchased, it may be
economic to match closely the painting specifications for valve and actuator.

3.20

Labels

3.20.1

Labels shall be of a non-corrodible material and shall be fixed by

stainless steel, brass or cadmium plated screws. (Adhesive is not
acceptable).

3.20.2

A label shall be provided on the actuator, with the following data

identified:(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
(ix)
(x)
(xi)
(xii)
(xiii)

type
serial number
hazardous area certification
wiring diagram number
actuator speed
maximum torque setting
IP rating
lubricant
motor rating kW
supply voltage
nominal motor current
auxiliary switch rating - A,V
manufacturer's name

The data provided on the label is important, given that the equipment is often
installed remotely from the location of the data sheets. Additionally, data sheets
get lost. This information is standard for the principle MOV actuator manufacturer.

3.20.3

In addition a label shall be provided on each terminal box cover,

engraved with the following warning:'This terminal box may contain supplies from several
sources. All supplies must be isolated before
removing the cover'.

3.20.4

4.

Within the terminal compartment, all terminals shall be clearly

identified.

TESTING
Testing requirements for MOV actuators should be discussed and agreed with
prospective manufacturers at the earliest opportunity. The following are the minimum
testing requirements:-

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 10

4.1

Type Tests
Evidence of the following type testing is required:-

4.2

4.3

(i)

Life test on complete actuator - to simulate satisfactory

mechanical operation of whole assembly and envisaged
operating life cycle. Test to check performance in terms of
output torque, thrust and speed.

(ii)

Temperature rise tests on motors in accordance with BS 4999.

Routine Tests
(i)

Circuit continuity checks.

(ii)

Motor and control circuit high voltage test.

(iii)

Performance check on actuator assembly. Torques and motor

amps to be checked during light running, stalled, opening and
closing conditions. Voltage drop to be checked also.

(iv)

Visual inspection.

(v)

Mechanical operation.

Test Certificates
The manufacturer shall provide certificates for all tests.
certificates are to include values of results of tests.

5.

The test

DATA SHEET
Completion of the items listed in the Data Sheet is effected in one of three ways:(a)

By deleting the pre-printed characteristics not required.

(b)

By entering the characteristics required if pre-printed options are not given.

(c)

By deleting all of the pre-printed characteristics given and entering the required
characteristic in the space provided.

For guidance on completion of the Data Sheet, see Appendix C2.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 11

INDENT/PURCHASE ORDER No
TO BE COMPLETED IN BLOCK CAPITALS

TO BE COMPLETED BY PURCHASER

TO BE COMPLETED BY VALVE MANUFACTURER

VALVE DATA THIS DATA SHALL NOT BE USED FOR OVERALL SPECIFICATIONOF THE VALVE. IT
IS ONLY PROVIDED
MANUFACTURER.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

FOR

THE

INFORMATION

OF

THE

VALVE DATA

ACTUATOR

MANUFACTURER
TYPE
SIZE
TAG NO(S)
FLUID

bar(ab)
bar(ab)
C
sec
sec

MAX DIFFL PRESSURE

MAX LINE PRESSURE
MAX FLUID TEMP.
REQUIRED
STROKE TIME

MAX
MIN

sec
sec

OPEN
OPEN

CLOSE
CLOSE

29
30
31
32
33
34
35

SHAFT DIAMETER

36

REMARKS:

mm
mm

LEAD
FLANGE TYPE/ISO NO

Nm
N

MAX REQD ACTUATOR TORQUE

SEATING THRUST (inc friction)
ACTUATOR MOUNTING

TOP

SIDE

SPINDLE DIRECTION FOR

VIEWED

VALVE CLOSE

FROM

TO BE COMPLETED BY ACTUATOR MANUFACTURER

ACTUATOR GENERAL DATA

10

TYPE OF PROTCTN.

EX'd' IIBT3

11

NON-ALLOWED MATLS

12

INGRESS PROTECTION

13

ELECTRICAL POWER SUPPLY

14

LOCATION

TROPICAL

MAX AMBIENT TEMP

40C

ACTUATOR DATA
37

IP 65
v

wire
MARINE

Hz
DUSTLADEN

MANUFACTURER

38

ACTUATOR TYPE

39

CERT AUTHy/CERT NO

40

ACTUAL STROKE TIME

41

MOTOR DATA

OPEN

SEC

CLOSE SEC

(a)

(b)

SPEED

SPECIAL ENVIRONMENT

(c)

LOCKED ROTOR CURRENT/PF

pf

15

NO OF CONSECUTIVE OPS

(d)

FULL LOAD CURRENT/PF

pf

16

PAINT COLOUR

% AT

MAX RELATIVE HUMIDITY

UNDER 1000 m

ALTITUDE

42

CONTROL PUSH BUTTONS

OPEN

CLOSE

REMOTE CONTROLS

OPEN

19

LOCAL INTERMEDIATE
POSITION INDICATOR

NOT REQ'D

20

REMOTE CONTROL VOLTAGE

21

REMOTE CONTROL
POWER SOURCE

22
23

24

CLOSE

CONTROL DATA

STOP

(b)
6

RATINGS

STOP

(d)

ANTI-COND'NS'TN HEATER

(e)

ANTI-CONDENSATION
HEATER FUSE RATING

(f)

POTENTIOMETER RESIST

EXTERNAL

ACTUATOR

43

WIRING DIAGRAM

REMOTE POSITION INDICATOR POTENTIOMETER

NOT REQ'D

REQUIRED

44

REMARKS:

REMOTE
INDICATION

VALVE
POSITION

VALVE CLOSED
LIMIT SWITCH

VALVE OPEN
LIMIT SWITCH

CONTACT
SEQUENCE

OPEN

ADDITIONAL
SWITCHES

RELAY

INTERFACE METHOD

ACTUATOR REMOTE CONTROL/INDICATION

18

rpm

(a)

ACTUATOR LOCAL CONTROL/INDICATION

17

CLASS OF WINDING INSUL.

PRIMARY

SECONDARY

Amp

Amp

SUPPLIED

NOT SUPPLIED

Amp
ohms
No.

issue

IN TRANSIT

SEPARATE SECOND STAGE GEARBOX DATA

CLOSE

45

MANUFACTURE

46

TYPE

47

RATIO

48

REMARKS:

ADDITONAL
SWITCH
CONTACTS
CONTACT
POSITION
WHEN

CLOSE

CLOSE

CLOSE

OPEN

OPEN

.......................
OPEN

VALVE CLOSED
CONTACT
CH-OVER
POS'N %

VALVE TRAVEL

ACTUATOR PROTECTION DATA

25

MOTOR PROTECTION

EXCEPTIONS

SELF RESET

HAND RESET

ACTUATOR CABLE DATA

26

POWER CABLES

(a)
(b)
(c)

mm

CONDUCTOR SIZE

ENTRY NO 2

mm

SPECIFICATIONS MET IN FULL

50

ALTERNATIVE PROPOSALS:

51

REMARKS

REV

DATE

YES

NO. (DETAILS ON
SEPARATE SHEET)

NO OF CORES

GLAND THREAD DETAILS

CONTROL CABLES

27
28

ENTRY NO 1

49

(a)
CONDUCTOR SIZE
(b)
NO OF CORES
(c)
GLAND THREED DETAILS
PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR SIZE

ENTRY NO 3

mm

ENTRY NO 4

mm

mm

REMARKS

PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR
TERMINATION

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 12

BY

APP

APPENDIX A
DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Definitions
Standardised definitions may be found in the BP Group RPSEs Introductory Volume.
Abbreviations
BS

British Standard

IEC

International Electrotechnical Commission

MOV

Motor Operated Valve

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 13

APPENDIX B
LIST OF REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
A reference invokes the latest published issue or amendment unless stated otherwise.
Referenced standards may be replaced by equivalent standards that are internationally or
otherwise recognised provided that it can be shown to the satisfaction of the purchaser's
professional engineer that they meet or exceed the requirements of the referenced standards.
International Standards
IEC 34-1

Rotating Electrical Machines

Part 1: Rating and Performance

IEC 79

Electrical Apparatus for Explosive Gas Atmospheres

IEC 269

Low Voltage Fuses

IEC 529

Degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures (IP Code)

IEC 947-4

Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear

Part 4: Contactors and Motor Starters

ISO 5210

Industrial Valves: Multi-turn Valve Actuator Attachment

ISO 5211

Part-turn Valve Actuator Attachment

European Standards
EN 50 014

Electrical Apparatus for Potentially Explosive Atmospheres.

General Requirements

EN 50 018

Electrical Apparatus for Potentially Explosive Atmospheres.

Flameproof Enclosure 'd'

British Standards
BS 4999

General Requirements for Rotating Electrical Machines

BP Group Documents
BP Group GS 106-2

Painting of Metal Surfaces

(replaces BP Std 141)

BP Group GS 130-6

General Specification for Actuators for Shut-off Valves.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 14

APPENDIX C
SUPPLEMENTARY COMMENTARY
C1

REMOTE INDICATION
This Commentary relates to clause 3.10.2
Two limit switches are required for remote position indication and are located at the
end of valve travel in each direction. Many combinations of contact configuration
are possible and different arrangements may be applicable to individual applications
or projects. Fig. 1 is an example of a typical configuration to give an indication of:(i)

'valve open' when open limit switch closed (closed limit switch open),

(ii)

'valve in operation' when both limit switches open,

(iii)

'valve closed' when closed limit switch closed (open limit switch open).

Item 23 of the Data Sheet would therefore be completed as follows:-

Valve Position
Open
In transit
Closed

Valve Closed
Limit Switch
Open
Open
Closed

Valve Open
Limit Switch
Closed
Open
Open

The individual external wiring is then connected in accordance with Figure 1.

This typical arrangement will not meet the requirements of every application but
providing each limit switch has its contacts brought out to an individual terminal the
required linking configuration may be achieved at the actuator terminal box.
Some limit switches are driven direct from a secondary drive with the limit switch
contact operation calibrated to valve position by simulation. These limit switches are
known as 'exact' limit switches and manufacturers frequently provide only one of
these in each direction. Additional limit switches known as 'auxiliary' limit switches
can be provided but these are subject to greater operating tolerance than the 'exact'
type. To ensure compatibility of operation between 'exact' and 'auxiliary' limit
switches it is manufacturers' normal practice to set the 'auxiliary' switches to operate
before the 'exact' switches thus ensuring the same indicating position for both types of
limit switch after full operation of the valve.
The use of 'auxiliary' limit switches for valve control by a remote control system
which relies on position indication is not recommended. However, where this cannot
be avoided the 'auxiliary' switch contact should be interconnected with an auxiliary
contact of the actuator drive motor contactor, which in turn is stopped either via

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 15

torque or 'exact' end-position switches. There is risk that incorrect position may be
indicated if the motor is stopped between 'auxiliary' limit switch operation and valve
fully seated or fully open positions. However this risk is small provided the travel
between the two positions is adjusted as short as possible.
Figure 2 is an example of the similar configuration to that used in Figure 1, with the
addition of contactor auxiliary switches in accordance with the preceding paragraph.
The requirement for intermediate valve position indication at a remote location is
infrequent but can be provided by a potentiometer driven by the valve actuator. The
power supply for this circuit is normally derived from the remote location.
If required, the actuator should be specified with a sequence failure alarm contact set up to operate when the valve has failed to complete its full travel. The trend is now
to use remote logic at the control centre to determine sequence failure.
C2

COMPLETION OF DATA SHEET

This Commentary relates to clause 4.
C2.1

General
The Remarks sections in the Data Sheet are provided so that the
specifying engineer can identify any information which is not covered
by other Data Sheet items and which is relevant to a specific
application. Typically this could be details of particularly saliferous
or sulphurous operating environment, the use of a fire-protected
enclosure, cross reference to drawings showing a special control
scheme or interposing relay requirements, etc.
The specifying engineer should complete as many items as is possible.
If it is impracticable for all items to be completed at the time of
enquiry, those items for which information is not known shall be ruled
through, not left blank. At the time of order, all items should be
entered.

C2.2

Specific Items
(Valve Data Section (to be completed by purchaser)
Item 6

The maximum differential pressure should be specified

for the valve closed position.

(Actuator General Data Section (to be completed by purchaser)

Item 14

The last entry shall be used when necessary to identify

special environmental conditions such as presence of
H2S, high solar gain etc.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 16

(Actuator Remote Control Section (to be completed by purchaser)

Item 19

Remote control contacts can be of one of two forms

referred to as 'maintained' contacts or 'fleeting'
contacts. The form chosen for each application must be
specified by the purchaser.
'Maintained' contacts will remain in either an open or
closed condition to initiate and retain a chosen function
from the controlled device, in this case the actuator.
The contact will revert to the alternative condition when
a change in function is required from the controlled
device. For example the external contacts can be closed
to initiate a valve closed function and will remain
closed until such time as a valve open function is
required when the contact will revert to the open
condition. This form will normally be employed when
inching duty is required. Circuitry internal to the
actuator may override the external circuit but the
external circuit contact condition will remain in its
maintained state until a positive decision is taken to
change it.
'Fleeting' contact action which can be either open or
closed, may be of short duration. The corresponding
action from the controlled device can only be ensured
by the provision of latching circuitry internal to the
device.
'Fleeting' contacts are thus inappropriate for inching
duty control.

Valve Data Section (to be completed by Valve Manufacturer)

Item 32

This item shall only be completed for torque seated

valves such as gate valves.

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 17

OPEN
LIMIT
SWITCH

CLOSED
LIMIT
SWITCH
CONTROL &
INDICATION BY
OTHERS

ACTUATOR MANUFACTURER

NOTES:- (a) VALVE SHOWN OPEN

(b) WIRING SHOWN
NOT WITHIN SCOPE
OF ACTUATOR MANUFACTURER

FIGURE 1 TYPICAL INDICATION UTILISING EXACT LIMIT SWITCHES

OPEN CONTACTOR
AUX. SWITCH
NORMALLY
CLOSED

OPEN
AUXILIARY
SWITCH

CLOSE CONTACTOR
AUX. SWITCH
NORMALLY CLOSED
TERMINAL BOX
CONTROL &
INDICATION BY
OTHERS

CLOSED
AUXILIARY
SWITCH

ACTUATOR MANUFACTURER

NOTES:- (a) VALVE SHOWN OPEN

(b) ACTUATION DRIVE MOTOR NOT OPERATING
(c) WIRING SHOWN
NOT WITHIN SCOPE OF
ACTUATOR MANUFACTURER

FIGURE 2 TYPICAL INDICATION UTILISING AUXILIARY SWITCHES

GS 112-2
ELECTRIC MOTOR OPERATED VALVE
ACTUATORS FOR INTERMITTENT OPERATION
OF ISOLATION VALVES

PAGE 18