In actual use, an AT pneumatic actuator sometimes shows "slow movement," which affects production efficiency and equipment safety. Don't panic when this happens — first find the cause, then fix it accordingly. This article pairs the 4 main causes of a slow AT pneumatic actuator with 4 solutions one by one, helping you quickly restore normal operation of the equipment.
1. Four Main Causes of Slow Movement
1. Insufficient air supply pressure
The standard air supply pressure of an AT pneumatic actuator is 0.4–0.7MPa; insufficient pressure will slow the actuator's movement.
2. Solenoid valve failure
The solenoid valve is the key component controlling the AT actuator's movement. Once it fails, the actuator cannot move or moves slowly.
3. Internal actuator failure
Damaged internal parts of the actuator or poor lubrication will also cause slow movement.
4. Mismatched output torque
When the actuator's output torque is less than the valve's load, movement becomes slow.
2. Targeted Solutions: 4 Measures
Measure 1: Adjust the air supply pressure
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Use a pressure gauge to measure the air source pressure and ensure the air supply pressure is within the standard range
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If the pressure is insufficient, adjust and correct it promptly: adjust the air source pressure reducing valve, replace it with a larger air source, check whether the air source pipeline leaks
Measure 2: Maintain the solenoid valve
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Check and maintain the solenoid valve regularly
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Use a multimeter to measure whether it is energized and whether the circuit is normal; repair or replace it if abnormal
Measure 3: Check the actuator internals
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Dismantle the actuator and check whether the internal parts are worn or damaged; replace them if damaged
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Check whether the lubricating oil is sufficient; add lubricating oil if not
Measure 4: Check the output torque
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Calculate the valve load; if the actuator's output torque is less than the valve load, a larger actuator must be used
3. Cause-Solution Quick Reference
| Cause | Judgment | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Insufficient air supply pressure | Whether it is within 0.4–0.7MPa | Adjust the pressure reducing valve / change the air source / check for leaks |
| Solenoid valve failure | Whether it is energized and the circuit is normal | Test with a multimeter, repair / replace |
| Internal failure | Worn parts, insufficient lubrication | Replace parts, add lubricant |
| Torque mismatch | Output torque < valve load | Use a larger actuator |
Conclusion
A slow AT pneumatic actuator comes down to four things: whether the pressure is sufficient, whether the solenoid valve is good, whether the internals run smoothly, and whether the torque matches. Troubleshoot along these four directions, find the cause and apply the right remedy, and it can usually be solved quickly. For technical support in troubleshooting AT actuators, feel free to contact our professional service team.
Zhejiang Huaershi Auto-control Instrument Valve Co., Ltd.
Since 1989 · 30+ years focused on pneumatic actuators and pneumatic valves
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