The Siemens OpenAir GDE Series Electronic Damper Actuators are direct-coupled, enhanced non-spring return rotary electric actuators designed for two-position/floating or modulating control of HVAC dampers. These actuators are suitable for constant or variable air volume installations and can control dampers requiring up to 44 lb-in (5 Nm) of torque.
Function Description:
The GDE series actuators operate based on a control signal to position dampers. For two-position/floating control, a continuous 0(2) to 10 Vdc signal from a controller operates the damper actuator, with the angle of rotation proportional to the control signal. A 0 to 10 Vdc position feedback output signal is available to monitor the damper motor's position. In the event of a power failure, the actuator holds its position. If only the control signal is lost, the actuator returns to the 0 position. Modulating control models (GDE16x.1P, GDE164.1P) offer sequencing and electronic limitation of the angle of rotation. Users can set the offset (start point) between 0 to 5 Vdc and the slope (span) between 2 to 30 Vdc using potentiometers. The Y input is limited to a maximum of 10 Vdc, and if the sum of the offset and slope setting exceeds 10V, the angle of rotation is reduced, providing electronic limitation. The actuators are designed for 100,000 full strokes and 5 million repositions at rated torque and temperature, with life expectancy potentially shortened by improperly tuned loops causing excessive repositioning.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Torque: 44 lb-in (5 Nm)
- Operating Voltage:
- 24 Vac/dc models (GDE14x, GDE16x): 24 Vac/dc +/-20%
- Line voltage models (GDE34x): 100 to 240 Vac +/-10%
- Frequency: 50/60 Hz
- Power Consumption:
- GDE14x: 2.5 VA (1 Watt)
- GDE34x: 5 VA (1.6 Watt)
- GDE16x: 2.1 VA (1.2 Watt)
- Control Signal: Selectable 0 to 10 Vdc or 2 to 10 Vdc input. Input resistance >100K ohms.
- Feedback Signal: 0 to 10 Vdc position output signal (U-G0). Maximum output current DC 1 mA.
- Auxiliary Switches: Independently adjustable dual auxiliary switches available. Contact rating: 4A resistive, 2A inductive. Voltage: 24 Vac/24 Vdc (GDE1xxx.P), 250 Vac (GDE3xxx.x), 12 to 30 Vdc (DC rating).
- Switch Range:
- Switch A: 0° to 90° with 5° intervals (Recommended usage: 0° to 45°, Factory setting: 5°)
- Switch B: 0° to 90° with 5° intervals (Recommended usage: 45° to 90°, Factory setting: 85°)
- Switching hysteresis: 2°
- Feedback Potentiometer (GDE142.1P): Sliding contact (P2) 0 to 5000 ohm <10 mA, <1 W. UL-Class 2 (SELV/PELV for CE) <24 Vac/dc.
- Runtime for 90° Opening/Closing: 90 sec. at 60 Hz (125 sec. at 50 Hz)
- Nominal Angle of Rotation: 90°
- Maximum Angular Rotation: 95°
- Shaft Size: Minimum shaft length 3/4-inch (20 mm). Acceptable shaft sizes: 3/8 to 5/8 inch (8-16 mm), 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6-12.7 mm), 9/16 inch (15 mm).
- Enclosure: NEMA Type 2, IP54 according to EN60529 (not with cable-up mounting orientation). Durable plastic, silicone-free.
- Ambient Temperature:
- Operation: -25°F to 130°F (-32°C to 55°C)
- Storage and Transport: -40°F to 158°F (-40°C to 70°C)
- Ambient Humidity: 95% rh (non-condensing)
- Agency Certification: UL listed to UL60730, CUL certified to Canadian Standard C22.2 No. 24-93, CE certified (EN60730-1, EN60730-2-14). Approved for plenum areas per UL 1995.
- Pre-cabled Connection: 18 AWG, standard cable length 3 ft (0.9 m).
- Dimensions: 6.6 L x 2.8 W x 2.4 D inches (166.7 L x 71 W x 61 D mm).
- Weight: 1.35 lb (0.61 kg), 1.91 lb (0.87 kg) with packaging.
Usage Features:
- Selectable Modulating Control Signal: Users can choose between 0 to 10 Vdc or 2 to 10 Vdc for flexible control.
- 24 Vac/dc Compatible: Ensures broad compatibility with existing systems.
- New Line Voltage Models: GDE34x models offer 100 to 240 Vac two-position/floating control, expanding application possibilities.
- Integral 1/2-inch Conduit Connection: Simplifies wiring and installation.
- Manual Override: Allows for manual positioning of damper blades and locking the position without power. The actuator returns to automated control once power is restored.
- Independently Adjustable Dual Auxiliary Switches: Provides additional control and feedback capabilities. The setting shafts rotate with the actuator, and the scale is valid when the actuator is in the 0 position on clockwise motion.
- Rotation Direction Adjustment: The direction of rotation can be set to clockwise or counterclockwise to match damper movement.
- Mechanical Range Adjustment: A stop set screw allows users to mechanically limit the range of the damper blade.
- Self-Adapt Switch: When the mechanical angle of rotation is limited, this switch (middle DIP switch) can be turned ON, making the limited range the new 0 to 100% for the actuator logic. This feature scales the control signal within the adjusted mechanical range, and the feedback signal reflects the selected control signal. A five-minute calibration cycle occurs after turning on or software reset.
- Accessories:
- ASK76.1U Conduit Adapter: Provides a connection between the actuator and conduit for models with auxiliary switches or built-in potentiometers.
- ASK71.5 Rotary-to-Linear: Allows direct-coupled actuators to provide auxiliary linear drive.
- ASK71.6 Mounting Bracket: Enables economical mounting to various surfaces, useful when a rigid-surface mounted and linear stroke output is needed.
- ASK78.3U Shaft Inserts: For use with 3/8-inch (8 to 10 mm) diameter shafts.
- 985-101P25 Shaft Guide: 1/2-inch guide, factory-installed with GDE/GLB Series.
- ASK75.7U Weather Shield: UL listed to meet NEMA Type 4X requirements when installed with outdoor-rated conduit fittings, protecting against dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust, splashing water, hose-directed water, corrosion, and external ice formation.
Maintenance Features:
- Troubleshooting: If the actuator is inoperative, it should be replaced as opening the actuator is not recommended.
- Wiring Guidelines: All wiring must conform to NEC and local codes. Earth ground isolating step-down Class 2 transformers are recommended, and autotransformers should not be used. The sum of VA ratings of all components powered by one transformer must not exceed the transformer's rating. It is recommended that one transformer power no more than 10 actuators.
- CE Conformance: For CE certified actuators, all wiring must be SELV or PELV rated per HD384-4-41, and safety-isolating transformers (Class III per EN61588) rated for 100% duty cycle must be used. Overcurrent protection for supply lines is a maximum of 10A.
- Start-Up/Commissioning: Detailed steps are provided for checking operation, feedback, and auxiliary switches for both 24 Vac/dc and 100 to 240 Vac models, including instructions for using a Digital Multimeter (DMM) to verify voltage, resistance, and contact closure.