Bürkert Enables Digital Retrofit for Pneumatic Valves

Bürkert has introduced a seamless digital retrofit solution for existing analogue pneumatic control valves with its SideCONTROL series. The Type 8791 and Type 8792 electropneumatic positioners, along with the Type 8793 process controller, can be universally mounted onto most linear and rotary actuators. This straightforward upgrade path allows facility operators to achieve the advantages of digitalization—such as 24/7 continuous monitoring, automated reporting, and alarms for enhanced precision—without the downtime, cost, and complexity of completely replacing the original pneumatic valves.

To streamline hardware integration, the SideCONTROL devices communicate via IO-Link to establish a bidirectional digital connection over standard cabling, removing the need for additional switches. Connectivity options also include the AS-i protocol, Profibus, the CAN-based Bürkert system bus (büS), and high-speed Ethernet protocols like PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and EtherCAT. Out-of-the-box commissioning is simplified by the X.Tune function, which self-teaches and automatically adjusts control parameters to optimize the valve's response time and stability. Additionally, the Type 8793 digital process controller utilizes a P.TUNE function to self-optimize PID parameters, while specialized adapter kits allow the units to fit non-standard actuators, such as Type 3277 Samson designs.

Additional Context
This section provides technological and market background not explicitly detailed in the original release.

Across process industries like chemical manufacturing, water treatment, and food and beverage, countless legacy pneumatic valves still rely on standard 4-20 mA analog signals. While highly robust, analog control loops provide zero diagnostic feedback, making predictive maintenance virtually impossible. Upgrading to smart electropneumatic positioners equipped with IO-Link or industrial Ethernet brings these legacy field devices into the Industry 4.0 ecosystem. By utilizing integrated valve diagnostics, plant engineers can actively monitor parameters such as valve cycle counts, deadband deviations, and stiction to detect mechanical wear before a costly unplanned failure occurs. Furthermore, by preserving the existing pneumatic actuators and process piping, facilities can avoid extensive mechanical rework, stringent regulatory re-validations, and prolonged production shutdowns.

Edited by Lekshman Ramdas, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

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