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Maximize cost-efficiency and reliability with the Siemens PS2 valve positioner

August 20, 2024
Maximize cost-efficiency and reliability with the Siemens PS2 valve positioner

The SIPART PS2 stands out as Siemens’ leading valve positioner for linear and part-turn actuators, designed to excel in a variety of industrial environments. Known for its versatility and comprehensive functionality, the SIPART PS2 ensures reliable performance even under extreme conditions. It is available in multiple enclosure options, including Polycarbonate, Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Flameproof Aluminum, and 316L Stainless Steel, catering to a wide range of operational needs.

Why Choose The PS2 Valve Positioner

The PS2 Positioner is more than just a tool for precise control—it’s a comprehensive solution designed to meet the demands of modern industrial applications. Here’s why it’s a standout choice for professionals across the globe:

  • Global Leadership: Second-largest install base worldwide and largest in the growing Asian market, demonstrating proven reliability and performance.
  • Extreme Environment Ready: Operates efficiently at temperatures as low as -40°C, ensuring reliability in harsh conditions.
  • Universal Compatibility: Works with all control systems, including DeltaV, and supports HART, Profibus, and Foundation Fieldbus protocols.
  • Ease of Use: Basic programming can be done directly via pushbuttons, eliminating the need for additional communicators and simplifying installation.
  • Advanced Diagnostics: Features comprehensive diagnostics, including valve signature and pressure sensor-aided performance assessment for enhanced maintenance monitoring and peak efficiency.
  • High Reliability and Product Lifetime: Built with robust enclosures and a modular design, the SIPART PS2 ensures long-lasting durability.
  • Easy Mounting, Wiring, and Calibration: Its design simplifies installation and maintenance for all common valve types, streamlining these processes.
  • Intelligent Diagnostic Features: With functionalities such as Partial Stroke Test, Fail-in-Place, Valve Signature, and Integrated Pressure Sensors, the SIPART PS2 enhances plant availability and process security.
  • Significant Cost Savings: Its minimal compressed air consumption leads to up to 95% lower operating costs, translating into substantial energy and maintenance savings.

Key Features of the SIPART PS2

One of the standout features of the SIPART PS2 is its Piezo block, which provides a zero-bleed tight seal when stationary. This translates into cost savings and makes the PS2 an efficient choice due to its minimal air consumption and overall cost efficiency.

When the Piezo block is stationary, it consumes virtually no compressed air, a significant departure from traditional valve positioners that often have a continuous bleed. This drastic reduction in air consumption leads to considerable savings on energy costs associated with generating and maintaining compressed air systems. By minimizing the use of compressed air, the SIPART PS2 not only reduces direct energy costs but also lowers the wear and tear on air compressors and related equipment by about 40%-60%, leading to further savings on maintenance and replacement costs over the positioner’s lifetime.

More functionalities include:

  • Valve Signature, Pressure Sensor-Aided: Enhanced performance assessment and maintenance monitoring.
  • Partial Stroke Test: Optionally pressure sensor-supported for performance and maintenance assessment.
  • Leakage Monitoring: Ensures operational efficiency and safety.
  • Gas Compatibility: Operates with natural gas, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or noble gases, offering exceptional versatility.
  • Automatic Commissioning: Simplifies installation and setup.
  • Simple Operation and On-Device Configuration: Via local display or SIMATIC PDM.
  • High Control Performance: Ensures precision in various applications.
  • “Intelligent Solenoid Valve”: Combines solenoid valve function and diagnostics in one device.

Advanced Diagnostic and Monitoring Capabilities

The SIPART PS2 positioners control the valve position according to setpoint value specifications on pneumatic valves. It features various intelligent online (during operation) and offline (e.g., between batch processes) diagnostic functions, with optional expansion by pressure sensors.

The Non-Contacting Position Sensor (NCS sensor) is designed with a moulded housing and serves as an alternative to the built-in potentiometer in applications subject to challenging process conditions such as:

  • Strong vibrations and shock loads affect actuators and process valves.
  • Harsh environmental conditions.
  • Limited space or difficult-to-reach installation locations, which complicate the operation of the SIPART PS2 positioner.
  • Harmful atmospheres (gases, vapors, liquids) that can cause corrosion, leading to the blockage of moving parts.

The NCS sensor operates using a 2-wire basic electronic system and requires no additional auxiliary power. For linear actuators, a magnet is mounted on the spindle; for rotary actuators, the magnet is mounted on the shaft stub. The sensor detects the magnet’s movement to function.

Other Monitoring Functions Include:

  • Position Transmitter: With potentiometer, NCS, NCS and ILS, or NCS and MLS for SIPART PS2.
  • Linear Potentiometers: With 3K, 5K, or 10 to 20 kΩ (e.g., pneumatic cylinder).
  • Commercial Sensors: With 4 to 20 mA or 0 to 10 V (only with non-ex applications).

The SIPART PS2’s comprehensive monitoring functions detect and signal changes in the actuator and process valve, providing crucial information about valve status, including:

  • Travel Integral: Measures the total distance the valve has travelled during operation, helping assess wear and maintain operational efficiency.
  • Number of Changes in Direction: Tracks how many times the valve has reversed its direction, which can indicate process disturbances or mechanical issues.
  • Alarm Counter: Logs the number of alarm events triggered by the valve positioner, providing insights into system reliability and aiding in timely maintenance.
  • Self-Adjusting Dead Zone: Automatically adjusts the range within which the valve can move without affecting the process variable, ensuring precise control and reducing manual adjustments.
  • Operating Cycles of Piezoelectric Valves in Pneumatic Block: Monitors the number of operating cycles of the piezoelectric valves, offering insights into their lifespan and helping with maintenance scheduling.
  • Process Valve End Position: For detecting valve seat wear or deposits.
  • Operating Hours: Including temperature and position ranges, as well as min./max. temperature.

The SIPART PS2 also features a 3-stage alarm system that helps users monitor valve performance effectively:

  • Green Wrench: Indicates maintenance is required.
  • Yellow Wrench: Signals that urgent maintenance is needed.
  • Red Wrench: Alerts to imminent danger of valve failure or general failure.

This early warning system allows users to address potential issues proactively, such as diaphragm breaks or valve sluggishness, before they lead to system shutdowns. By responding to these alerts, users can ensure ongoing plant safety and operational availability.

The Siemens SIPART PS2 Valve Positioner into industrial operations offers significant advantages, including reduced air consumption, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and a robust, reliable design. The SIPART PS2 not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures long-term reliability and reduced maintenance costs. It is a valuable investment for any industrial application, delivering cost savings and dependable performance.