Air Torque Scotch Yoke Actuators

Air Torque Scotch Yoke Actuators are engineered for high-performance valve automation where robust torque and reliable operation are critical. These actuators use the scotch yoke principle to deliver enhanced torque characteristics, especially during breakaway and seating—making them ideal for demanding industrial processes where valves may be operated infrequently or require high force to move.

How Air Torque Scotch Yoke Actuators Work

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Air Torque Scotch Yoke Actuators operate by converting linear force into rotary motion to automate quarter-turn valves. The actuator consists of a central piston that moves when pressurised air (or hydraulic fluid) is applied. This linear movement drives a specially designed yoke that engages with a rotating shaft. As the piston travels forward or backward, the yoke slides along a curved slot or pin, forcing the shaft to rotate—typically through a 90° angle—opening or closing the connected valve.

What sets Air Torque apart is their enhanced yoke design, which produces high torque output precisely at the start and end of the stroke. This is crucial for overcoming the breakaway resistance when opening a valve and ensuring a tight shutoff when closing. The actuator can be configured as double-acting, where pressure is used in both directions, or spring-return, which uses a built-in spring to return the actuator to its fail-safe position in case of pressure loss.

Air Torque actuators are modular, allowing easy adaptation with accessories like limit switches, solenoids, and positioners. This design not only provides superior torque performance but also ensures reliability, long service life, and compatibility with a wide range of industrial valve automation systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s a valve automation device that uses pneumatic or hydraulic pressure to produce rotary motion using a scotch yoke mechanism. Air Torque’s design enhances torque performance during valve opening and closing phases.

Air Torque actuators are known for their precision engineering, high-quality materials, and modular design. They offer reliable performance, especially in demanding environments like oil & gas and petrochemical plants.

They are typically used with quarter-turn valves such as ball valves, butterfly valves, and plug valves. Their torque characteristics make them especially effective with valves requiring strong seating or break torque.

Yes, Air Torque offers Scotch Yoke actuators for both pneumatic and hydraulic operation depending on application needs and site specifications.

They are available in a wide range of torque outputs, from low to extremely high torque values, suitable for small valves to large-diameter industrial valves.

Yes, Air Torque actuators can be supplied with ATEX, SIL, and other hazardous area certifications, making them suitable for explosive and safety-critical applications.

Yes, with the addition of a valve positioner, Air Torque Scotch Yoke actuators can be used for modulating or throttling control in process applications.

Absolutely. Air Torque offers both double-acting and spring-return models to suit fail-safe requirements and process demands.

The actuators are typically constructed from high-grade aluminum or carbon steel, with internal components treated for corrosion resistance and wear protection.

Air Torque actuators are designed with easy maintenance in mind. Access to critical components is straightforward, and regular servicing ensures long-term reliable operation.

Air Torque Scotch Yoke Actuators are capable of operating valves ranging from small bore to very large diameters. Their wide torque range ensures compatibility with various valve sizes and pressure classes.