Flow Control Valve: The HVAC Control System

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. This is equipment that uses a control system to regulate the operation of the heating or air conditioning system. This can be a sensing device like a pneumatic control system or flow control valve that uses compressed air to receive and send signals that control HVAC equipment. 

Pneumatic control systems move pressurised or compressed air ‘signals’ from a controller to a device through copper or plastic tubes. Pneumatic systems can also have electronic controls that send and receive electric or electronic signals.

How do pneumatic controls work?

Compressed air is the standard method of control for HVAC systems. The compressed air is carried through plastic or copper tubes from a controller to a control device. This control is usually a valve actuator or damper. This control method is dependent on thermostats and sensors that retain the line pressure from the sensor to the control device. Each sensor responds to changes in static pressure, humidity, and temperature to provide accurate information to either open or close the actuator to meet the control set point.

Why use pneumatics for HVACs?

Because of the simplicity of pneumatic devices, they can perform a combination of tasks at any one time for automated equipment. Pneumatic control systems are used in various industries such as in manufacturing and power automation, as well as for heating and air conditioning. Though there are electric and electronic control systems for pneumatics, pressure control systems using compressed air have lower maintenance costs due to their simple design, simplicity, and compressed air mechanism.

Pressure sensors

This type of sensor system measures water or air pressure and provides a signal that corresponds to that pressure. These could be integrated with a control device or as stand-alone units. Pressure, air, or water flow are essential factors for HVAC system efficiency. This efficiency can impact mainly on controlling costs. 

Pressure switches

Also called differential pressure switches, these sense overpressure vacuum as well as pressure differentials. This is done in environments such as ducted ventilator systems. When the pressure or environment falls outside a set range, the pressure switch sends a signal to other control devices that trigger a remote status alarm or change settings for recalibration or manual inspection.

Master Mac 2000

Master Mac 2000 is the sole authorised Australian Mack Valves distributor for flow control valve systems, pneumatic valves, as well as other cylinder and valve components, particularly in Queensland and Northern NSW. For all your pneumatic system needs, you can call us at 0733444711 or visit our website at https://mastermac2000.com.au/.