Actuator (Piston/Diaphragm) for Metering Devices

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Actuator (Piston/Diaphragm)

Definition

An actuator in metering devices is a critical component that translates control signals into precise mechanical movement, typically using piston or diaphragm mechanisms to regulate the flow of liquids or gases with accuracy and repeatability. This directory entry covers actuators designed for metering applications, where precise flow control is essential. The actuator receives a control signal—pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric—and converts it into linear motion of a piston or flexing of a diaphragm, which in turn opens, closes, or modulates valves or other flow control elements. The product is available with various materials, including stainless steel, aluminum alloy, engineering plastics, and elastomers for diaphragms, allowing selection based on media compatibility and environmental conditions. Key parameters include supply pressure for pneumatic versions (0.4–0.8 MPa per ISO 5211), stroke length (10–100 mm), thrust force (500–5000 N), operating temperature (-20 to 80 °C for standard elastomers), control signal for electric versions (4–20 mA per IEC 60381), supply voltage (24 V DC ±10%), ingress protection (IP54–IP65 per IEC 60529), body material (WCB/CF8/CF8M per ASTM A216/A351), diaphragm material (EPDM/PTFE/FKM per ASTM D2000), weight (5–50 kg), and connection size (DN15–DN200 per ISO 7005). These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application. The actuator is a component intended for integration into metering systems; it is not a standalone product. Proper selection requires consideration of the control signal type, required stroke and force, media compatibility, and environmental conditions. Maintenance signals include reduced stroke or force, leakage, or erratic movement, which may indicate wear or diaphragm damage. Failure boundaries include operation outside specified pressure, temperature, or supply voltage limits, which can lead to seal failure or actuator malfunction. Always consult the legal manufacturer or supplier to confirm model-specific values and standards.

Working Principle

The actuator receives a control signal (pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric) that causes either a piston to move linearly within a cylinder or a diaphragm to flex, creating displacement that opens, closes, or modulates valves or other flow control elements in the metering system. The movement is proportional to the signal in modulating applications, enabling precise flow regulation. The actuator's mechanical output (thrust force and stroke) must match the valve's requirements to ensure proper sealing and control. The working principle relies on the conversion of energy (pressure or electrical) into mechanical motion, with the piston or diaphragm acting as the force-transmitting element. The actuator's performance is influenced by supply pressure, signal characteristics, and mechanical design. For pneumatic actuators, supply pressure (0.4–0.8 MPa) drives the piston; for electric versions, a 4–20 mA signal and 24 V DC supply are typical. The actuator's stroke length (10–100 mm) and thrust force (500–5000 N) determine its capability to operate the valve. The diaphragm, if present, isolates the actuator internals from the process media, and its material (EPDM/PTFE/FKM) must be compatible with the media. The actuator's ingress protection (IP54–IP65) indicates its resistance to dust and water, affecting its suitability for harsh environments. The working principle is fundamental to the actuator's role in metering, where accuracy and repeatability are critical.

Common Materials

Stainless steel, Aluminum alloy, Engineering plastics, Elastomers (for diaphragms)

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Supply Pressure	0.4–0.8 MPa	For pneumatic actuatorsISO 5211
Stroke Length	10–100 mm	Depends on actuator size
Thrust Force	500–5000 N	At rated supply pressure
Operating Temperature	-20–80 °C	For standard elastomers
Control Signal	4–20 mA	For electric actuatorsIEC 60381
Supply Voltage	24 ±10% V DC	For electric actuators
Ingress Protection	IP54–IP65	Higher for harsh environmentsIEC 60529
Body Material	WCB/CF8/CF8M	Select per media compatibilityASTM A216/A351
Diaphragm Material	EPDM/PTFE/FKM	Chemical compatibilityASTM D2000
Weight	5–50 kg	Depends on size and material
Connection Size	DN15–DN200 mm	Flange or threadedISO 7005

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Piston Rod Part
Transmits linear force from actuator to valve stem

Material: Stainless steel
Diaphragm Part
Flexible membrane that converts pressure into motion

Material: Elastomer (NBR, EPDM, or FKM)
Spring Return Part
Returns actuator to default position when pressure is released

Material: Spring steel
Piston
Moves linearly inside the cylinder to produce the actuating stroke.
Cylinder
Bore in which the piston travels under the control pressure.

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Actuator (Piston/Diaphragm).

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Metering Device

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Actuator (Piston/Diaphragm)

2 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

BCST Group

Shanghai, CN

Also makes: Butterfly Valve, Signal Processor, Temperature Controller and 9 more

Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

View profile Send enquiry

Shanghai Datian Valve Co., Ltd.

Shanghai, CN

Also makes: Flow Control Valve, Valve Controller, Butterfly Valve and 9 more

Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

View profile Send enquiry

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What control signals are supported?

For electric actuators, the control signal is typically 4–20 mA per IEC 60381, with a supply voltage of 24 V DC ±10%. Pneumatic actuators use supply pressure of 0.4–0.8 MPa per ISO 5211. Confirm the exact signal type and range for your model.

What materials are available for the diaphragm?

Diaphragm materials include EPDM, PTFE, and FKM, as per ASTM D2000. The choice depends on chemical compatibility with the process media. Consult the manufacturer for specific recommendations.

What is the ingress protection rating?

The ingress protection rating is IP54–IP65 per IEC 60529, depending on the model. Higher ratings are available for harsh environments. Verify the rating for your specific actuator.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Buyer enquiry

Request manufacturing insight for Actuator (Piston/Diaphragm)

Ask for use case, specification boundaries, supplier type, and RFQ preparation information for this product.

Where it goes: Straight to the CNFX editorial desk, and to the manufacturer if this product is linked to a claimed profile. Nothing is broadcast to a supplier list.
Your details stay here: We do not sell or rent enquiry data, and we do not add you to a mailing list. Used only to answer this request.
No commission, no middleman: CNFX is a directory. We take no cut of any order and never negotiate on a supplier's behalf.
What we don't claim: A listing is not an endorsement. Qualify every supplier and verify every figure yourself before ordering.

pressure:	Up to 16 bar (232 psi)
flow rate:	0.1 to 100 L/min
temperature:	-20°C to 120°C

Actuator (Piston/Diaphragm)

Product Specifications

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards