A damper actuator controls the opening and closing of a damper in an HVAC system. It can allow outside air to cool the inside or contain the inside air. There are electric and pneumatic configurations, as well as spring return, rotary, and linear variations. The type used depends on the HVAC system. Solenoids can be included, and manufacturers customize them based on airflow volume. The type of damper seals, number of sections, and air velocity must be considered before installation. Mathematical formulas help decide the most suitable size and type of actuator.
Part of a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, a damper actuator controls the opening and closing of a damper. Opening the damper allows air from outside a building to enter, to cool the inside, or closing it to contain the inside air. Damper actuators are available from manufacturers in both electric and pneumatic configurations. Spring return, rotary and linear variations are also performed. The type of damper actuator used depends on the type and configuration of the HVAC system in the building.
The purpose of a damper actuator is to allow an HVAC system to bring in outside air or move the damper system so that air cannot enter. It may not be necessary to run an air conditioning system at the power required to cool every space in a building. If the external temperature is adequate, the use of external air is convenient and less burdensome on the entire mechanical system. Air that is further cooled in the system will enter the building and the actuator can also expel warm air as the air inside cools.
In systems controlled by air pressure, pneumatic damper actuators are used. These typically have a spring that moves the actuator, which is activated by changes in air pressure within the control system. Electric actuators, by contrast, are controlled by motors. Other types of HVAC damper actuators include spring return and springless return actuators which are usually driven by motors.
Sometimes a solenoid is included in a damper actuator. This helps open and close the shock portion by converting the available energy into the movement needed to accomplish the task. Commercial HVAC systems usually implement stainless steel solenoids that can tolerate corrosive environments. Actuators can also be mounted in a variety of ways, often using separately purchased kits. Manufacturers also customize damper actuators for customers based on characteristics such as airflow volume.
Any damper actuator works in conjunction with other parts of the air conditioner. The type of damper seals, how many damper sections there are and the air velocity must therefore be considered before installing one. Factors also include the static pressure of the system under normal conditions. These variables can be calculated by finding out what the torque and area of the damper are. Mathematical formulas help decide the most suitable size and type of actuator.
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