Spirax Sarco AEL8 Series

To Next Page

IM-P714-05 CTLS Issue 1

AEL8 Series Safety Information

Printed in GB

AEL8 Series Safety Information

Quick Start Guide

IM-P714-05

CTLS Issue 1

Caution

Before commencement of any work to make the electrical connections refer to IM-P714-02 for the AEL8

Section 1 "Safety Information".

IM-P714-02 can be found on the Spirax Sarco website.

Warning

Mains connection and commissioning of the AEL8 Series actuator requires specialist knowledge of electrical

circuits and systems, and the inherent dangers. A working knowledge of linear actuators is also required.

The operator is responsible for ensuring that safe systems of operation and practice are implemented and

maintained.

Only qualified personnel must be allowed to make the electrical power connections to the AEL8 Series

actuator, and these personnel must be familiar with, and comply with the applicable health and safety

standards or guidelines.

Failure to do so could result in death, severe physical injuries or material damages to the actuator, valve and

associated equipment.

Ensure that the electrical power supply is isolated.

Safeguard against the unintentional switching on by ensuring that there is a safe system of practice in

operation – e.g. lock off the electrical supply isolator.

Ensure that any installation of any new power supply is compliant with local regulations

Check the mains connection voltage and frequency for conformity to the actuator. Details of the

requirements are identified on the AEL8 Series actuator nameplate which can be found on the actuator

baseplate.

Ensure that the power supply cable is of the correct cross section for the maximum expected load.

Details of the requirements are identified on the AEL8 Series actuator nameplate which can be found

on the actuator baseplate, and in the Technical Information Sheet (TI-P714-01).

Minimum cross section for the power supply cable is 1 mm

. Conductors below this area can result in

operational disturbances.

Ensure that the power supply is correctly fused for the maximum expected load. Details of the

requirements for each AEL8 Series actuator can be found in TI-P714-01.

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Spirax Sarco AEL8 Series and is the answer not in the manual?

The AEL8 Series actuator is an electric linear actuator designed for precise control in various industrial applications, particularly within steam systems. This device is crucial for automating valve operations, ensuring efficient and safe process management. The manual provides essential safety information, quick start guidelines, and detailed instructions for commissioning and operation.

Function Description

The AEL8 Series actuator is designed to provide linear movement for valve control. It can retract or extract its stem to open or close a valve, responding to electrical control signals. The actuator features a built-in positioner that automatically updates its feedback signal to match the chosen input signal, ensuring accurate positioning. It supports both manual and automatic operation modes, allowing for flexibility in control. The device incorporates a self-tuning function (AUTOTUNE) for quick and easy setup, which automatically calibrates the actuator's travel range. Additionally, it includes provisions for setting desired failure modes in the event of control signal or power supply interruption, enhancing operational safety.

Important Technical Specifications

Power Supply: The actuator requires an electrical power supply, and the specific voltage and frequency requirements are detailed on the actuator nameplate and in the Technical Information Sheet (TI-P714-01).
Power Supply Cable: The minimum cross-section for the power supply cable is 1 mm². Conductors below this area can lead to operational disturbances.
Fusing: The power supply must be correctly fused for the maximum expected load, with details available in TI-P714-01.
Control Signal: The default control signal supported is 4-20 mA / 2-10V, which can be selected via DIP switches.
DIP Switches: The actuator features two rows of DIP switches (S1 and S2) for configuration, including selecting action required (e.g., actuator stem extended at minimum input signal), control signal, and failure modes.
LED Indicators: Multiple LEDs (L_P, L_+, L_-, L_A, L_Power) provide visual feedback on the actuator's status, including programming, movement direction, and power.
Illuminated Hand Wheel: The hand wheel changes color to indicate actuator status: Green for ready, Blue for manual operation, Orange for warning (e.g., 50% speed), and Red for fault.
Safety Standards: The AEL8 Series actuator complies with various safety and electromagnetic compatibility regulations, including:
- UK Declaration of Conformity:
  - SI 2016 No.1101 (The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016)
  - SI 2016 No.1091 (The Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016)
  - SI 2008 No.1597 (The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008)
  - Referenced standards: EN 61010-1:2010+A1:2019, EN IEC 61010-2-202:2021, EN 61800-3:2004+A1:2012, EN ISO 12100:2010.
- EU Declaration of Conformity:
  - 2014/35/EU (Low Voltage Directive)
  - 2014/30/EU (EMC Directive)
  - 2006/42/EC (Machinery Directive)
  - Referenced standards: EN 61010-1:2010+A1:2019, EN IEC 61010-2-202:2021, EN 61800-3:2004+A1:2012, EN ISO 12100:2010.

Usage Features

Quick Start Guide: The manual provides a quick start guide for initial setup and commissioning.
Programming Buttons: The actuator features dedicated buttons for programming (P), retracting (+), extracting (-), and switching between manual/auto (A) modes.
Auto-Tune Function: For most applications, a quick set-up routine using the AUTOTUNE function can be adopted. This function automatically calibrates the actuator's travel. To initiate, the actuator spindle should be in the fully extended position, power supply isolated, and cover removed. After setting relevant DIP switches (S1.2, S1.1, S1.5), reconnect power, set S2.8 to "ON," and press and hold the PROG button for 3 seconds.
Commissioning LED Status: During AUTOTUNE, the LEDs provide status updates: Orange flash for "Waiting for AUTOTUNE start," Red flash (alternate) for "AUTOTUNE in progress," Green flash for "AUTOTUNE complete," and Quick Flash for "AUTOTUNE error."
Failure Mode Selection: Users can select desired failure modes via DIP switches (S1.7, S1.8, S2.5, S2.6) in case of control signal or power supply interruption. For steam systems, setting these to "OFF" is recommended.
Manual Operation: The actuator can be manually operated, indicated by a blue illuminated hand wheel.
Shutdown Module: For actuators fitted with a Shutdown Module, specific commissioning procedures outlined in Section 6.7 of IM-P714-02 must be followed.

Maintenance Features

Safety Information: The manual emphasizes critical safety precautions, including isolating the electrical power supply, safeguarding against unintentional switching, ensuring compliance with local regulations for new power supply installations, and checking mains connection voltage and frequency.
Qualified Personnel: Only qualified personnel familiar with electrical circuits, systems, and linear actuators, and who comply with applicable health and safety standards, are permitted to make electrical power connections and commission the AEL8 Series actuator.
Documentation: Detailed safety information (IM-P714-02) and technical information (TI-P714-01) are available on the Spirax Sarco website, providing comprehensive guidance for installation, operation, and maintenance.
Troubleshooting: The LED status indicators and illuminated hand wheel colors provide immediate visual cues for operational status and potential faults, aiding in quick troubleshooting. For detailed manual commissioning and DIP switch configuration, IM-P714-02 should be consulted.