• Netherlocks BV

Reliable Valve Position Signals For Handwheel Valves

Netherlocks Safety Systems BV, the Dutch industrial safety specialist, has designed a new universal mounting system to safely and securely fix valve position indicator switches onto handwheel-operated valves. The Smart VPI is made from stainless steel AISI 316, suitable for all applications both on- and offshore. The unique, patented design allows the mounting bracket to attach directly onto the valve stem without affecting the valve itself: a simple and easy add-on. The switchbox for the valve is then mounted onto the bracket with either DIN or ISO configurations. Here it is safely out of the way, not interfering with valve operation, but still securely fixed in place and with protected switches and wiring. Currently, many switchboxes for handwheel valves are mounted onto weak, external brackets that are inconvenient and unprotected. In technical meetings with end-users, Netherlocks had been told that getting a reliable feedback signal was a common problem. The answer was to design a universal mounting system that could fit any existing valve and switchbox, whilst safely securing and protecting the critical equipment. The Smart VPI is the result, eliminating the traditional drawbacks and universally mounted onto any valve to ensure a reliable valve position signal.