Smith Flow Control Enters Nuclear Industry with FlexiDrive Remote Valve Operator

To improve the safety of workers in nuclear facilities, Smith Flow Control now offers the FlexiDrive remote valve operator.

The system can easily be adapted to suit any handwheel- or lever-operated valve in nuclear power plants, making them continuously accessible and safe to operate wherever they are located.

The FlexiDrive includes a new fully-integrated counter mechanism which displays the valve position (open/closed), providing the operator with a clear indication of the valve position from a safe vantage point. The system is capable of operating valves as far as 30 metres away and accommodating 540 degrees of bends in the cable run.

This remote operation capability improves the safety and functionality of valve operations in nuclear facilities by reducing the exposure of operating personnel to hazardous materials. According to the Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999, Part II, Section 8, “every radiation employer shall, in relation to any work with ionising radiation that he undertakes, take all necessary steps to restrict so far as is reasonably practicable the extent to which his employees and other persons are exposed to ionising radiation.”

FlexiDrive consists of two stations joined by a unique patented linear drive cable, which can be passed around and through walls, bulkheads, floors and any other obstacles to reach the host valve. A unique device for remote valve operation, FlexiDrive eliminates issues associated with valve access in potentially hazardous areas.

Tel: +44(0)1376 517 901
Email: sales@smithflowcontrol.com
Web: www.smithflowcontrol.com

Published in Valve User Magazine Issue 38