Smart actuator, positioner installations increase

More users worldwide are installing smart actuators and positioners as they realize their higher-level controls need increasingly consistent valve performance. This new emphasis is pushing valves to become more fully integrated into users’ digital control systems, according to Automation Research Corp.’s (ARC) new Worldwide Control Valve Outlook report. ARC adds this focus on valve performance is turning smart positioners into the fastest growing segment of the overall control-valve market, with a more than 50% annual growth rate. Total shipments of smart positioners are expected to grow from $20.2 million in 1997 to $158 million in 2002. The report also projects that Latin America will experience the most dramatic growth in the worldwide control valve market, even though it now possesses the smallest share. Currently, total shipments of control valves by region, in percent of U.S. dollars, include: 37.3% in Europe, Middle East, Africa, 36.8% in North America, 13.5% in Japan, 10.7% in the rest of Asia, and 1.7% in Latin America.

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