Electrically actuated ball valve
An electrically actuated ball valve combines the simplicity of a quarter-turn shut-off with the precision of an electric actuator. You can choose on/off control or modulation with 0–10 V or 4–20 mA, and fieldbus options if required. For fail-safe there are versions with battery or super-cap backup, or with spring return (more expensive but inherently mechanical), so the valve moves to a safe position on power loss. When selecting, pay attention to operating torque, supply voltage, speed/travel time and duty cycle (ED%). Ebora supplies both plastic and aluminium actuators; plastic is often the first choice on plastic valves due to low weight. For humid or submerged environments, IP67 (splash-proof) and IP68 (submersible) variants are available.
This is the subpage for electrically actuated ball valves. For manually operated, pneumatically actuated or free-stem ball valves, dedicated pages are available.
What is an electrically actuated ball valve?
The actuator converts electrical energy (via an electric motor) into a controlled 90-degree rotation. In the open position the bore is aligned with the pipeline and pressure drop is minimal; in the closed position the bore is perpendicular and the valve seals. Thanks to limit switches and position indication, open/close feedback is standard. For precise control the actuator can be driven in modulating mode by an analogue signal or via a fieldbus.
Design, interfaces and materials
Actuator and valve are coupled via ISO 5211; the drive shaft interface must match one-to-one or be adapted with a bracket. Control accessories commonly use NAMUR/VDI-VDE 3845 interfaces for mounting and feedback. Ball valves are available in steel, brass, plastics and stainless steel, with seats selected for chemistry, temperature and wear. Electric actuators can have plastic or aluminium housings; choose an IP rating suited to the environment (e.g., IP67/IP68).
Selection and sizing
Start from the valve’s torque (break/run/seat) under your process conditions. Correct for medium (lubricated or dry), pressure and temperature, and add a safety margin. Then choose the supply (e.g., 24 V DC/AC or 230 V AC), the travel time and the required duty cycle. Electric actuators are typically slower than pneumatic ones, but Ebora also supplies high-speed versions that—depending on torque—can achieve ~1 s per stroke. For fail-safe, decide whether battery or super-cap is sufficient, or whether a spring is required (effective but generally more expensive). Bus communication (incl. AS-Interface) is available; Ebora supplies its own AS-i card for EBN-e actuators.
Why choose electric actuation?
- Accurate positioning and modulation via 0–10 V/4–20 mA or fieldbus for process control.
- Easy PLC/DCS integration with standard open/close feedback and position indication.
- Choice of housing (plastic/aluminium), IP67/IP68 and fail-safe options (battery/super-cap/spring).
- Often far more cost-effective than using an oversized solenoid valve.
For hazardous or very wet environments, pneumatic actuation can be more practical. Ebora advises the best solution per application, including accessories and documentation.
Typical applications
Automation of process water, inert gas and utility lines with frequent switching cycles. HVAC control (zoning and mixing) with modulating actuation. Chemicals and tank storage where controlled, safe remote operation is required. On plastic pipework, a lightweight plastic actuator is often preferred to reduce mechanical load.
Valve Automation Center
Ebora performs assembly, adjustment and testing in the Valve Automation Center. Test reports and documentation for traceability are available on request. We deliver fully assembled, configured and tested.
Advice or quote
Send your process data (medium, pressure, temperature, Kv/Cv, supply, desired travel time and fail-safe requirement). We will size the actuator and deliver a matching package.
Contact us for advice or a quote.
Frequently asked questions about electrically actuated ball valves
How does an electric ball valve work?
An electric actuator turns the ball 90° using a motor and gear train. Limit switches provide open/close feedback to your control system. In the open position the bore aligns with the line for minimal pressure drop; in the closed position the passage is shut. Modulating versions position the ball continuously between 0–100% based on 0–10 V or 4–20 mA.
Which control types exist: on/off, 3-point or modulating?
On/off (2-point) drives fully open or fully closed and is the most robust. 3-point (floating) uses two directional signals to open and close. Modulating uses an analogue signal (0–10 V/4–20 mA) or a bus for proportional positioning. The choice depends on required accuracy, response and your control platform.
What fail-safe options are available for electric actuation?
Fail-safe can be implemented with battery or super-cap backup that moves the actuator to a safe position on power loss. There are also spring-return actuators; these are effective but typically more expensive than battery/super-cap. Choose based on the safety target, budget and maintenance approach. We advise per application what fits best.
How fast can an electric ball valve cycle?
Standard travel times are often higher than with pneumatics, but fast electric variants exist. Depending on required torque and supply, travel times down to about 1 s per stroke are possible. For fast variants, consider duty cycle (ED%), thermal load and power capacity. We balance speed, torque and lifetime together.
Which supply voltage and IP rating should I choose?
Common supplies are 24 V DC/AC and 230 V AC; the choice depends on availability, inrush and safety requirements. For outdoor or wet installations, a higher IP rating is relevant (e.g., IP67 splash-proof, IP68 submersible). Consider heater/anti-condensation where temperature swings occur. We supply plastic or aluminium housings to suit your environment.
Do you support fieldbus systems?
Yes. In addition to analogue control, various bus options are possible. For EBN-e actuators, Ebora supplies its own AS-Interface card for easy integration. Other protocols are available on request.
