Motorized Damper Butterfly Valves
Motorized Damper Butterfly Valve is a type of flow control device that combines the efficient shutoff and throttling capabilities of a butterfly valve with the automation and precision of an electric actuator. This integration makes it ideal for HVAC systems, air handling units, and industrial applications requiring remote operation and reliable performance.
Construction of Motorized Damper Butterfly Valve
Valve Body
The valve body serves as the main structure of the motorized damper butterfly valve and is typically made from materials such as aluminum, galvanized steel, or stainless steel. It is available in wafer, lug, or flanged styles, allowing for convenient mounting between duct or pipe flanges. The body is designed to be lightweight yet durable, suitable for low-pressure applications involving air or gas flow.
Disc
The disc is the internal rotating element responsible for controlling the flow through the valve. It is mounted on a central axis and rotates to open, close, or throttle the passage of air. Made from corrosion-resistant metals or protective coatings, the disc is lighter than those used in standard fluid valves, allowing for smoother operation and reduced torque requirements.
Seat
In damper applications, the valve seat provides minimal flow restriction rather than a tight shutoff. However, in many airflow systems, the valve may be designed without a soft seat, as complete sealing is not essential. The seating configuration is selected based on the desired balance between airflow control and durability.
Shaft (Stem)
The shaft connects the actuator to the disc and enables its rotation. It is supported within the valve body by bushings or seals that help ensure stable alignment and reduce wear. In air-handling environments, the shaft also prevents the ingress of dust and airborne contaminants, contributing to reliable long-term operation.
Electric Actuator
Replacing manual levers, the electric actuator automates the valve’s operation. It includes an internal motor, limit switches, and position control components that allow the valve to open or close partially or fully based on system commands. Operated through standard voltage supplies such as 24VDC, 110VAC, or 230VAC, the actuator supports both on-off and modulating control modes, depending on system design requirements.
BMS / SCADA Ready
Motorized damper butterfly valves are built for easy integration into centralized automation systems. Equipped with position feedback and responsive control features, they allow real-time monitoring and adjustment through building or industrial control platforms. Manual override options ensure continued operation during maintenance or system downtime.
Motorized Damper Butterfly Valve vs. Motorized Butterfly Valve (Standard Type)
| Aspect | Motorized Damper Butterfly Valve | Motorized Butterfly Valve (Standard Type) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Application | Air and gas flow control (HVAC, ventilation, ducts) | Liquid flow control (water, chemicals, oil, etc.) |
| Flow Medium | Non-corrosive and low-pressure gases (air, smoke, fumes) | Liquids (water, oil, chemicals, slurries, etc.) |
| Valve Disc Design | Lightweight and wide-profiled for low-pressure airflow | Thicker and stronger to handle high-pressure fluid flows |
| Torque Requirement | Lower torque due to air medium and lightweight disc | Higher torque required to overcome fluid pressure and friction |
| Sealing Type | Often non-tight shutoff; loose-sealing acceptable for airflow | Tight shutoff with bubble-tight sealing (EPDM, PTFE, NBR, etc.) |
| Body Material | Often aluminum or galvanized steel for lightweight construction | Cast iron, ductile iron, stainless steel for durability |
| Seat Design | Sometimes seatless or with soft seat (not designed for leak-proof) | Designed for leak-proof shutoff in fluid systems |
| Actuator Type | Damper motor (spring return or non-spring return, modulating) | Industrial electric actuator with higher torque capacity |
| Control Features | Modulating or 2-position; often integrated with HVAC/BMS systems | On/off or modulating; used in industrial process automation |
| Installation Location | In ducts or air handling units (vertical or horizontal) | In piping systems (horizontal mounting preferred for liquids) |
| Operation Speed | Slower opening/closing acceptable for air volume control | Faster or time-controlled actuation needed for process regulation |
| Typical Standards | HVAC standards (e.g., SMACNA) | Industrial standards (e.g., API, ISO, ANSI) |
| Cost | Generally lower due to lightweight build and simple actuation | Higher due to robust build, sealing, and stronger actuator |
Motorized Damper Butterfly Valves are optimized for air and gas flow in low-pressure, non-critical environments, prioritizing light weight and cost-effectiveness.
Standard Motorized Butterfly Valves are built for liquid applications where tight shutoff, pressure handling, and durability are critical.
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