Why choosing the right damper actuator is important?

Getting the right fit for damper is crucial. The wrong fit of damper actuator will have common issues such as undersizing, oversizing, and improper usage signal. It would be best to mitigate the risk to ensure that the actuator and equipment is function properly.

Oversizing

Oversizing means using an actuator that has a torque higher than what is required. When it applies too much torque to your equipment, it damages your equipment in the long run. Higher torque usually requires higher energy which causes a decrease in energy efficiency. There is also an opportunity to use a smaller actuator on the application which helps to save cost.

Undersizing

Undersizing means, using an actuator that has lesser torque to drive the equipment. It happens when the required torque needed is unknown to the user. During wear and tear, chattering and binding stack up in the damper and torque happens to be more than what is required will cause damage to the actuator.

Undersizing will potentially damage your actuator gearbox in the long run where the breakaway torque will cause the gearbox to be worn off or even crack. In the event where the equipment fails or is unable to function properly, there will be safety issues especially if the damper requires fail-safe.

Drastically overloading the actuator will also use more energy than what is required since the chiller pant will be overworked to make up for the wrong positioning of the damper.

Wrong Signal

The actuator usually comes with On/Off, Floating, and modulating control. Choosing an incorrect control signal could lead to improper use of equipment leading to monetary damage. If the wrong signal is sent to damper actuator, the actuator will not be function properly. This is extremely crucial, especially for fire escape routes.