Q:AUTOMATION - SWIFT•O•MATIC QM: Which is the difference between “one-way” and “two-way” actuators?
A:One-way actuators can rotate in one direction only. On the contrary, two-way actuators can rotate in both directions. These ones can stop their own stroke and invert their direction in order to reduce their cycle time (opening and closing time).

Q:AUTOMATION - SWIFT•O•MATIC QM: When should one-way or two-way actuators be used?
A:In the case of two-way or three-way valves with T-port one can use one-way or two-way actuators without any distinctions. Three-way ball valves with L-port can only be combined with a two-way actuator.

Q:AUTOMATION - SWIFT•O•MATIC QM: What is a micro?
A:Micros are auxiliary switches which are started at the top of the stroke and allow drawing an electrical signal from the actuator. In a typical application, the micro switch circuit opens when the valve begins to close, turning off a pump. Another application would involve shutting off condenser water flow to a water source heat pump. The micro would allow compressor operation only when the valve was fully open.

Q:AUTOMATION - SWIFT•O•MATIC QM: Why does one usually talk about two or three wires if they are actually more?
A:Because one usually only identifies power wires (two or three), which is the wires to be directly connected to the network. This is due to the fact that the other wires can vary, for example, when the number of micros vary.

Q:AUTOMATION - SWIFT•O•MATIC QM: Which is the difference between two or three wires?
A:Two wires actuators are provided with an inner relay regulating opening and closing. Such actuators cannot stop in intermediate positions. Three wires actuators need on the contrary an outer relay (which is usually situated in the thermostat). Such actuators can also stop in intermediate positions.

Q:AUTOMATION - SWIFT•O•MATIC QM: What does IP54 mean?
A:IP stands for the security class of an electrical appliance . The two numbers indicate respectively: the level of protection from the entrance and the contact with solid bodies; the level of protection from water.