Actuators For Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning: Damper Actuator Applications Guide

Actuators for
heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning
Damper Actuator Applications Guide

Table of Contents
Introduction to Economizer Systems References
1 Economizer Systems Air Movement and Control Association, Inc. (AMCA)
1 Indoor Air Quality Publication 502-89
1 Damper Selection American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air
Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE) 1991 Applications
Handbook, sec. 41.6
Damper Selection
1 Opposed and Parallel Blade Dampers The content in this application guide is based on the standard HVAC
2 Flow Characteristics engineering guidelines. The use of this information must be used
2 Damper Authority with sound engineering judgment. Belimo Aircontrols does not take
responsibility for problems caused by the concepts presented in this
4 Combined Flow publication.
All the contents of this publication are the sole property of Belimo
Additional Considerations Aircontrols (USA), Inc. and may not be reproduced without the written
4 Ventilation Minimum Position authorization of Belimo Aircontrols (USA), Inc.
6 Building Pressure
6 Mixed Air Temperature Control
6 Actuators
6 Hysteresis
7 Accuracy
7 Pneumatic Actuators
8 Positioner
8 Torque
8 Linkage
9 Electronic Actuators
9 Crank Arm Type
9 Direct Coupled
Optimizing Economizer Systems

11 Sizing of Dampers
12 Linearization
12 Travel Adapted MFT Actuators
13 Choice of Dampers
Summary
14 Modernization of Old Installations
14 Direct Coupled Actuators with MFT
Introduction to Economizer Systems
Economizer Systems
Most economizer systems have one damper for the FAN
outside air (OA), return air (RA) and exhaust air (EA). EA RA
The dampers work together with fans to provide the
RA
proper amount of supply air (SA) and return air (RA).
ACTUATORS
The economizer portion of an air handling system is
FAN
not only responsible for reducing the operating cost of FAN
the system, but more importantly, it has to provide a OA EA MA
Heating/Cooling
Etc. SA RA
sufficient volume of outside air at all times to ensure RA
good indoor air quality. The function of the economizer
ACTUATORS
also affects the pressurization of the building.
FAN
Slight positive pressure is needed to prevent infiltration
of unconditioned outside air while too much pressure OA Figure 1. Economizer
MA System Etc.
Heating/Cooling
SA
causes exfiltration. Incorrect pressurization may cause damage to the building structure due to condensation, freezing, mold
growth, etc. Refer to Figure 1.
U_11010 - 02/19 - Subject to change. © Belimo Aircontrols (USA), Inc.
Indoor Air Quality

The indoor air quality and comfort are more important than the operating cost of the air handling system. If it is not adequate,
absenteeism and turnover will increase, and productivity will suffer. This hidden cost can seriously affect the bottom line of any
organization.
The ventilation system is the cause of almost half the indoor air quality complaints according to NIOSH (National Institute of
Occupational Safety and Health). Damper control alone is itself not responsible for the indoor air quality and climate, but it has a
very central role. Therefore, it is important that the dampers and actuators are selected and sized correctly.
Damper Selection
Traditionally, little attention is given to the selection of the dampers that comprise the economizer. What is worse is that the selec-
tion of the actuators that operate the dampers is usually based solely on the torque rating required to operate the dampers. The
accuracy of the control is rarely considered. Without accurate damper positioning, the economizer will not function correctly, and
both the indoor air quality and comfort is compromised.
Damper Selection
Opposed and Parallel Blade Dampers

For proper regulation of airflow, it is important to select and size the dampers for the correct operation. In HVAC installations,
two different types of rectangular dampers are used to modulate air
flow. These are parallel and opposed blade dampers.
Parallel blade dampers are designed so all the blades move in the
same direction and in parallel. Refer to Figure 2 PARALLEL BLADE OPPOSED BLADE
DAMPER DAMPER
Opposed blade dampers are designed, so blades next to each other
move in opposite directions. Refer to Figure 3
PARALLEL BLADE OPPOSED BLADE

DAMPER DAMPER
Figure 2. Figure 3.
1
Flow Characteristics FLOW FLOW
The two types of dampers have different % %
“inherent flow characteristics”. This can FLOW

FLOW
100 100FLOW
FLOW
be illustrated by a curve that shows the 90%

% 90 % %
relationship between the flow rate and the 80100

100 80 100100
position of the blades. 70

9090 70 9090
60 60
The inherent flow characteristics for parallel 80
50
80
50
8080
and opposed blade dampers are different, 7070

40 40
7070
and neither has a linear characteristic. Refer 6060

30 30
6060
to Figure 4. 5050
20 20
5050
4040 4040
Opposed blade dampers give a very slow 10 10
3030 3030
increase in the flow when the damper begins 0 0
2020
to open.
2020
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
1010 °POSITION 1010 °POSITION
Parallel blade dampers have an inherent 0 0 PARALLEL BLADE DAMPER 0 0 OPPOSED BLADE DAMPER
curve that is not as pronounced, so the flow 0 0 1010 2020 3030 4040 5050 6060 7070 8080 9090 0 0 1010 2020 3030 4040 5050 6060 7070 8080 9090
increases more rapidly when the damper °POSITION
°POSITION °POSITION
°POSITION
Figure 4. Inherent Characteristics of Parallel and Opposed Blade Dampers
begins to open. PARALLEL
PARALLELBLADE BLADEDAMPER
DAMPER OPPOSED
OPPOSEDBLADE BLADEDAMPERDAMPER
It is very important to realize that the inherent curves are measured under laboratory conditions, with a constant differential pressure
across the damper. In a real installation the curves will be distorted; refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7.

CLOSED
DAMPER
Damper Authority
When installed in a system, the damper is not the
only device which affects the flow. Other parts of CLOSED
CLOSED
DAMPER
DAMPER NO FLOW
the system, such as the duct work, filters, coils,
etc. will also restrict the flow. The damper will not
control the flow in accordance to its inherent flow
characteristics. DAMPER NO
NOFLOW
FLOW
PRESSURE DROP = 1.0 IN WG
When the damper is closed (refer to Figure 5A), the
full differential pressure will fall across the damper,
TOTAL SYSTEM PRESSURE DROP = 1.0 IN WG
but when open (refer to Figure 5B) the pressure DAMPER
DAMPER
drop across all other parts will be large, leaving little PRESSURE
PRESSUREDROP
DROP==
1.0
1.0
ININ
WGWG
pressure drop across the damper.
The pressure drop across the damper changes as TOTAL
TOTALSYSTEM
SYSTEMPRESSURE
PRESSUREDROP
DROP==
1.0
1.0
ININ
WGWG
the damper is operated from closed to open. This
distorts the flow characteristics curve. When the OPEN
damper begins to open, the differential pressure

DAMPER
Figure 5A. Total System Pressure Drop

is high, and the flow increases at a higher rate
than what the inherent curve suggests. When the
damper is almost fully open, the pressure drop OPEN
OPEN
LARGE
FLOW
across the damper will be small, compared to the DAMPER
DAMPER
total pressure drop. For example, as the damper

moves from 80° to 90° opening the flow will change OPEN DAMPER
very little. PRESSURE DROP = .1 IN WG LARGE
LARGE
FLOW
FLOW
A damper with little resistance to airflow in the fully
open position relative to the total system resistance TOTAL SYSTEM PRESSURE DROP = 1.0 IN WG
will have a small influence, or poor authority, on the
flow when it operates near the fully open position. OPEN
OPEN
PRESSURE
DAMPER
DAMPER
.1PRESSURE
DROP
DROP
==.1.1
ININ
WGWG
AUTHORITY % = –––– = 10%
1.0
TOTAL
TOTALSYSTEM
SYSTEMPRESSURE
PRESSUREDROP
DROP==
1.0
1.0
ININ
WGWG
.1.1
AUTHORITY
AUTHORITY = =––––
%% ––––= =
10%
10%
1.0
1.0
Figure 5B. Damper Pressure Drop
2
The resistance of the fully open damper can be expressed INSTALLED FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AT
DIFFERENT
INSTALLEDDAMPER AUTHORITIES (1-100%)
FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AT
as a percentage of the total system resistance and is DIFFERENT DAMPER AUTHORITIES (1-100%)
100
called “Damper Authority”. 100
90
90 1%
80 2%
FLOW
Damper Authority % = 80
1%
2% 3%
FLOW
70
Open Damper Pressure Drop x 100% 4%
3% 5%
MAXIMUM
70 4% 10%
60
5% % 5%
Total System Pressure Drop
MAXIMUM
60 10 1 %
50 %0
15 2
50 %%
20 30 %
40 5%0
OFOF
Pressure variations across a damper distort the inherent 40
30
50
%
30 0%
PERCENT
characteristic curve. The installed damper response 30
10
%
PERCENT
0
curve depends upon the damper authority. If the damper 20 10
authority is 100%, the installed damper characteristic is 20

10
the same as the inherent characteristic, but this will rarely 10
0
happen in a real installation. Instead, a much lower number 0
between 1% to 10% is realistic. As illustrated in Figure 6 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
0 10 20 30 POSITION,
40 50 60 OPEN
70 80 90
and Figure 7, an authority of 1% shifts the inherent curve DAMPER DEGREES
greatly. DAMPER POSITION, DEGREES OPEN
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 V
It is very important to realize that the total system 2 3 4 5CONTROL
6 SIGNAL
7 8 9 10 V
pressure drop only relates to the part of the system where CONTROL SIGNAL
the flow is controlled by the damper. Refer to Figure 8. The
flow downstream of the mixing plenum (point A) is not
Figure 6. Parallel Blade Damper Flow Characteristics
controlled by the OA damper in a mechanically balanced
system because the flow through point A is constant. The
OA damper only controls the flow through the weather
louver, the damper, and the OA ductwork. Therefore the
authority of the OA damper is determined by the pressure INSTALLED FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AT
DIFFERENT
INSTALLEDDAMPER AUTHORITIES (1-100%)
drop across the OA damper as a percentage of the total FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AT
DIFFERENT DAMPER AUTHORITIES (1-100%)
differential pressure between OA and point A. 100
100
The total system pressure drop for the OA damper is 90
90
measured between OA and Point A. The RA damper is 80 1%
FLOW
2%
measured between Point B and Point A. The EA damper is 80 1% 3%
FLOW
70 2% %
measured between Point B and EA. 3% 4
MAXIMUM
70 %
60 4% 5
If a single damper is used to control the flow through a
MAXIMUM
5% 10%
60
50 % 5%
section of an air handlers ductwork, then the total system 50
10 1
% 0%
15 2 30%
pressure drop is the sum of the component pressure drop. 40
OFOF
% %
20 5%0
Refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B. 40
30
30 %
PERCENT
50 0%
10
30
PERCENT
0%
20 10
20
10
10
0
0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
0 10 20 30 POSITION,
DAMPER 40 50 60 OPEN
DEGREES 70 80 90
DAMPER POSITION, DEGREES OPEN
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 V
2 3 4 5CONTROL
6 SIGNAL
7 8 9 10 V
CONTROL SIGNAL
Figure 7. Opposed Blade Damper Flow Characteristics
3
Combined Flow
The sizing of the OA, RA and EA dampers installed in an EAEA BB RA
RA
Economizer is very important because it determines the
installed damper characteristics. If the dampers have
been properly sized, their characteristics will complement RA
RA
each other so the total flow will be constant. The pressure
at points A and B will remain constant regardless of the
OA/RA mixing ratio. Refer to Figure 9.
The OA damper modulates the OA flow. When it is fully
open, a large portion of the differential pressure will fall
across the weather louver and the OA duct work, resulting
OA
OA
in a relatively small differential pressure across the OA AA MA
MA SASA
damper. When the OA damper is completely closed, the

full differential pressure will fall across the OA damper.
The authority of the OA damper is the differential pressure Figure 8. Economizer Airflow
across the damper when it is fully open, as a percentage
of the differential pressure between point A and OA. The
calculation of this percentage number is shown as an FLOW
FLOW
example in Figure 10.
%%
The authority of the RA damper is the differential pressure

100 TOTAL
TOTAL FLOW
FLOW
100
across the damper, when it is fully open as a percentage MAMA
of the differential pressure between points A and B. 9090
The authority of the EA damper is determined by the fully 8080 Ideally

Ideally thethe combined
combined flow
flow
MAMA(or(or SA)
SA) should
should remain
remain
open differential pressure and the differential pressure 7070 constant,
constant, regardless
regardless ofofthethe
between point B and EA.
RA
R
A
6060 OA/RA
OA/RA mixing
mixing ratio.
ratio.
The dampers usually operate in unison. As the OA and 5050
EA dampers close, the RA damper opens. The dampers 4040
should be sized to compliment each other. An increase
in the OA flow is matched by an equal decrease in the RA
A
3030
OA
O
flow. The total flow should be constant regardless of the 2020

mixing ratio between OA and RA flow. The pressure in the 1010
mixing plenum should also be constant. Unfortunately,
00
this is sometimes difficult to accomplish because the
dampers have a non-linear characteristic, and most 0 0 1010 2020 3030 4040 5050 6060 7070 8080 9090 100
100
dampers are poorly matched. These factors result in a %%

OAOA
toto
RARA Mixing
Mixing Ratio
Ratio
non-linear OA/RA mixing ratio, a variable combined flow
(MA) and pressure variations in the mixing plenum, which
may affect the building pressure. Refer to Figure 11. Figure 9. Ideal OA/RA Mixing Ratio
Note: For further details on this topic reference the book,

"Dampers and Airflow Control" by Laurence G. Felker and
Travis L. Felker, published by ASHRAE, 2010.
4
∆PT
Additional Considerations ∆PD
∆PT
FAN
Ventilation Minimum Position ∆PD

B
The indoor air quality is dependent upon the amount of outside FAN
air that is introduced into the building. The economizer varies EA
the mixing ratio of outside and return air to meet the varying B
conditions. At 100% outside air, maximum free cooling is provided, EA
and when the cooling load changes, the mixing ratio is changed
∆PT
until the outside air volume is reduced to a specified minimum
volume which satisfies the indoor quality requirements. Often the
T
∆P∆P
D
economizer is at the minimum position and provides the minimum OA
RA
FAN
volume of outside air when there is a need for mechanical cooling
∆PD
RA
or heating. At an intermediate load, the mixing ratio is changed to OA FAN
maintain a constant mixed air (MA) temperature. OA A SA
The air balancer can set minimum OA ventilation airflow with OA A SA
several methods; the most common is use a pitot-tube traverse if ∆PD A = MIXING PLENUM
adequate duct length is available to get a velocity pressure profile ∆PD A = MIXING PLENUM
uniform enough for good readings. ∆PT
∆PT
Duct temperature measurements can be used to set the minimum
Pressure drop over damper ∆PD
position or to verify the ventilation setting with the following Authority = Pressure drop over damper
Authority =
=
Total pressure drop = ∆PD ∆P
x 100%
x T100%
formula. Good results require the use of accurate temperature Total pressure drop ∆PT
sensors and at least ten degrees difference between the outside Example: OA ∆P∆P
Example: OA = .01
D =D .01 in. W.G.
in. W.G.
air and the return air. In the example below, if the OA damper ∆P∆P = .125
T =T.125 in. W.G.
in. W.G.
ventilation minimum position is set correctly, the mixed air Authority

Authority = =
.01.01
= 8%= 8%
x 100%
x 100%
.125
.125
temperature will be 69°
CALCULATION OFOF
CALCULATION THE
THE AUTHORITY
AUTHORITY
MAT = OAT (%OA) + RAT (%RA) Figure 10. Damper Authority Calculation
•• MAT = mixed air temperature = xx°
•• RAT = return air temperature = 70°
•• OAT = outside air temperature = 60°
150
150
•• % OA = % OA volume = 10%
140 MA
140 MBINED
MAFLO
W
CO
•• % RA = % RA volume = 90%
130
MBINED FLOW
CO
130
MAT = 60°(.10) + 70°(.90) = 69° 120
The minimum amount of outside air volume intake is controlled 120

110
by limiting the modulation of the dampers to a minimum position. 100

110
Precise and repeatable minimum position accuracy is required
PERCENT OF MAXIMUM FLOW
because a small positioning error will have a disproportionately 100

90
large effect upon the minimum outside air volume.

80
90
An alternative solution is to use two OA dampers. One is 70
modulated in unison with the RA and EA dampers, as described 80
above. The other damper is smaller and is opened when the fan 60
is running. This damper supplies the minimum OA volume and

70
50
may be modulated to achieve variable flow settings in VAV AHU's. 60
Refer to Figure 12. 40

E
OP
AD
RA
PO
1% OPP A 1%
BL
50
SE
10
30
ED
%
O
D
OS
BL
AD
4020
E
DE
OP
LA
RA
PO
DB
SE
10
3010
OA
%
D
SE
BL
PO
AD
0
OP
20
E
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
OA Damper Degree Open (RA Damper Degree Closed)
10 (OA/RA Mixing Ratio)
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
OA Damper Degree Open (RA Damper Degree Closed)
(OA/RA Mixing Ratio)
Figure 11. Poorly Matched Dampers
5
Building Pressure
No building is completely tight. Therefore a slight positive
pressure is required, in order to prevent any infiltration
of outside air into the building. Leakage of air into the
building can cause severe problems with the indoor EA B
climate and the building structure, especially the heating
season.
The pressurizing of a building depends upon a number
of factors; the economizer is just one of them. If
the economizer system can not maintain a constant RA
pressure in the mixing plenum (Point A in Figure 12), the
pressurization of the building will be affected.
Mixed Air Temperature Control

The mixed air temperature control is accomplished by Minimum OA On/Off
varying the mixing ratio between the outside and return
air. There are many things that can complicate this DAMPER 2
function and cause stability problems.
If the dampers are poorly matched, the mixing ratio OA
DAMPER 1
A MA SA
will not change as a linear function when the dampers

are operated. An additional complication is that the
pressure in the mixing plenum will not stay constant.
The mixed air temperature will change a lot with some Modulating
damper movements, while other damper movements will
produce a small change in the mixed air temperature.
This nonlinear function causes stability problems for the
mixed air temperature control. Refer to the next section,
"Optimizing Economizer Systems" for potential solutions Figure 12. Dedicated Ventilation Damper
to these issues.
Actuators
The dampers are subject to forces which increase friction ACTUATOR
RV L/
U A
E
when the fans are running. The resistance created by this
C N
POSITION
N IG
O S
friction must be overcome by the actuators. There are Hysteresis = 20%
TI L
SI INA
% PO OM
also dynamic forces that act upon the damper blades, that
g
N
in
100
as
tend to turn them either clockwise or counterclockwise,

re
ec
C
90
D
B
depending upon the position of the blades. The actuators
must be able to overcome these forces to position the 80 D
dampers accurately. 70
ng
si
The actuators are usually controlled by a modulating 60 A

ea
cr
In
control signal, most commonly 2-10VDC. Ideally, the 50

dampers should be repositioned in direct proportion to 40
the control signal, and follow a “Nominal Signal/Position 30
Curve”. 20
Hysteresis 10
All actuators have some hysteresis, which means that 0

there is one position/signal curve for increasing signals, 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 % SIGNAL
and a slightly different curve for decreasing signals.
The actual position will be slightly different if it is an 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 PSI
increasing or decreasing signal. Refer to Figure 13. EXAMPLE: Point A Signal is 70%, and the position is 60%
The control signal has to be changed by a certain value Point B Signal is increased to 100%, the position is 90%
Point C Signal is decreased to 80%, the position remains at 90%
in order to reverse the movement of the actuator. This Point D Signal is decreased to 70%, the position will be 80%
“dead zone” is the hysteresis, and often is expressed as
The signal is the same in points A and D; the position is different 80% instead of 60%.
a percentage of the control signal range. Most actuators The resulting actuator position will be different, depending upon whether it is controlled
are connected to the dampers via a linkage, which has by an increasing or decreasing control signal.
an inherent play (slack). The actuator can move back
and forth a few percent before the damper begins to Figure 13. Hysteresis
move. This is also a form of hysteresis, which adds to the
hysteresis of the actuator, so the total hysteresis can be quite large.
6
Hysteresis creates two serious problems. First, it adds

to the stability problems of the mixed air temperature BALL JOINT
control. Second, it makes the positioning of the actuators FS

FL
very inaccurate; this is especially serious concerning SIGNAL
the minimum position of the outside air damper. If the FA BLADE
control signal is increased from zero (closed OA damper) STEM

to the value that represents the minimum position of the
OA damper, a lower than desired minimum position will DIAPHRAGM
SPRING
FR
SHAFT
result. If the control signal is decreased from a high value SID

ES
to the value that represents the minimum position of the EA
LS
OA damper, a higher than desired minimum position FA = FS + FR + FL

will result. This difference in the minimum position will FA = Air Signal (Power) Positive BALL JOINT
LOAD
have a very large impact upon the minimum outside air FS = Spring Positive FS
FR = Resistance and Friction Always Resists ChangeF
volume. Refer to Figure 16. SIGNAL
FL = Damper Load
L
Negative and/or Positive
BLADE
Do not confuse hysteresis with the "resolution." FA
For any value of FA (Signal) the actuator takes a position dependent on the forces acting on
Resolution is the smallest increment the actuator will it. Repeatability is low and the hysteresis is high. With age, STEM
FR increases. 1.5 PSI hysteresis
move when fine and slow changes in the control signal is normal over a 5 PSI span.
SPRING SHAFT
are made. DIAPHRAGM
FR
Figure 14. Pneumatic Actuator SIDE
Some installed actuators can modulate the dampers SE
ALS B
N-L
very smoothly as long as the control signal is continually changed 14 in the same direction. The hysteresis will only reveal + 5 itself when the
0I
FA = FS + FR + FL
movement of the damper is reversed. Therefore the hysteresis should be measured by first increasing the signal to 40% for example, LB
then
FA = Air Signal (Power) Positive IN-
decreasing the signal very carefully until the damper and actuator13begin to move. If the damper starts
FS = Spring Positive
to close at 25% signal, 0the hysteresis
LOAD
is 40 - 25 = 15%. The difference in the signal is the hysteresis. ThisFRtest must be and
= Resistance done with the fans
Friction Alwaysrunning,
Resistsapplying
Change force to the damper
which the actuator must overcome. Hysteresis should be measured FLat= different points of the damper movement with a particular emphasis
PSI AIR SIGNAL
12 Damper Load Negative and/or Positive N-L

B
0I
–5
on the minimum OA position. RV E
For any value of F (Signal) the actuator takes aC position dependent on the forces acting on
U
11 A N
it. Repeatability is low and the hysteresis is IO
SIThigh. With age, FR increases. 1.5 PSI hysteresis
I
PS
Accuracy is normal over a 5 PSI span. AL
/PO
8-
13
IGN NGE
10 LS A
NA ING R
The combination of poorly matched dampers and total NOM
I
SP
R
hysteresis in the linkage and actuators can make stable 9 B
control of mixed air temperature very hard to accomplish, 8.75
14 +5
0I
N-L
even if advanced controllers are used. 8 B

N-L
If the minimum position of the OA damper is not controlled 7.25
13 0I
accurately, the minimum OA volume will be smaller or 7

PSI AIR SIGNAL
larger than the required value. A lower volume will result 12

0I
N-L
B
– 5 POSITION
in a poor indoor air quality. A higher volume will result in 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
C
70
UR
VE 80 90 100%
ON
wasteful high operating costs. 11
/ P
ITI
OS 13 P
SI
L -
PNEUMATIC ACTUATOR I G NA G E8
Pneumatic Actuators AN
S
10 AL
NFORCE GR
7 1/2" MI RIN
OUTSIDE NO SP 90°
Pneumatic actuators are still installed in older buildings; DIAM.
9
MIN EFFECTIVE
an understanding of their operation is essential. They 8.75 EFFECTIVE DIAPHRAGM

AREA = 33.3 SQ. IN.
RADIUS = 2"
have spring return function and operate with a very high 8 REQUIRED TORQUE = 50 in-lb
hysteresis. This is inherent to the design. The pressure of Resultant Pressure Variation to change the direction of the
the control signal acts on the diaphragm and produces 7.25
7 torque from +50 to –50 in-lb: 8.75 - 7.25 = 1.5 PSI Hysteresis = 1.5 PSI
a force, which pushes out the stem and compresses the Hysteresis as a percentage of the spring Range:
spring until the forces are in balance. The position of the 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100% POSITION
1.5
shaft will change in proportion to the air signal along the ––––––– x 100 = 30% 30% Hysteresis is typical for pneumatic actuators
13 - 8
nominal signal to position curve. Refer to Figure 14. PNEUMATIC ACTUATOR
To produce a net force at the output shaft, there must 7 1/2"

FORCE
90°
be an imbalance between the diaphragm and the spring.
OUTSIDE
DIAM. MIN EFFECTIVE
The force from the diaphragm must be stronger than the EFFECTIVE DIAPHRAGM
RADIUS = 2"
spring to produce a pushing force. The force from the AREA = 33.3 SQ. IN.
diaphragm must be less than the spring force in order

REQUIRED TORQUE = 50 in-lb
to produce a pulling force. This deviation between the Resultant Pressure Variation to change the direction of the
torque from +50 to –50 in-lb: 8.75 - 7.25 = 1.5 PSI Hysteresis = 1.5 PSI
position and the nominal signal/position curve is called
“spring range shift”. Hysteresis as a percentage of the spring Range:
1.5
––––––– x 100 = 30% 30% Hysteresis is typical for pneumatic actuators
13 - 8
Figure 15. Typical Pneumatic Spring Range Shift and Hysteresis
7
OA
Figure 15 shows a pneumatic actuator which is required to FLOW
OA
produce a clockwise (+) 50 in-lbs torque to open a damper, %
FLOW
and a counterclockwise (-) 50 in-lbs torque to close it. The 30
%
minimum effective radius of the linkage arm is 2". Which 30 of an Opposed Blade Damper
Detail
with an authority of 10%*
means that the pushing or pulling force of the actuator is Detail of an Opposed Blade Damper
with an authority of 10%*
+25 lb. or - 25 lb. (Torque/Effective radius = Force. 50/2 =
25 lb.) 20
MIN. 10% OA FLOW DESIRED
5 - MIN.
15% RESULT
The outside diameter of this actuator is 7½", which 20
10% OA FLOW DESIRED
5 - 15% RESULT
corresponds to an effective diaphragm (piston) area of
approximately 33.3 sq. in. VARIATION
50 - 150%
When the signal pressure and the position are in balance, noOF DESIRED
VARIATION
50 - 150% 10 CONTROL POINT =
net force is produced at the output shaft. This is representedVOLUMEOF DESIRED
MIN. OA
10 ± 6° OF DESIRED MIN.
CONTROL POINT =
MIN. OA
by the “nominal signal/position” curve. To produce a 25 lb. VOLUME
OA DAMPER POSITION
± 6° OF DESIRED MIN.
OA DAMPER POSITION
force the signal pressure has to be higher or lower than the
nominal signal/position curve. 0
The resultant pressure variation is 25 lb./33.3 sq. in. = 0.75 0 10 20 30 % OA DAMPER
POSITION
10 20 30 % OA DAMPER
psi. To change from +50 in-lbs to -50 in-lbs torque, the total*If the authority is less, POSITION
variation has to be 2 x 0.75 = 1.5 psi. This is 30% of thethe variation*If will be even larger.
the authority is less, HYSTERESIS = 12%
spring range of a typical pneumatic actuator (8 to 13 psi).

the variation will be even larger.
HYSTERESIS = 12%
The hysteresis and spring range shift in an actual
installation depends upon how generously the pneumatic Figure 16. Results of Hysteresis on Minimum OA Air Flow
actuator is sized, in comparison to the required torque. If
the actuators are oversized, the hysteresis will be less. The
recommendation of the pneumatic actuator manufacturer’s is typically 1¼- 2 in-lbs for each square foot of damper area. This is less than
adequate. The resulting hysteresis can be 12% or more. Refer to Figure 16.
Positioner
The accuracy of pneumatic actuators is 100
MAXIMUM
considerably improved if they are provided with 100
MAXIMUM
positioning relays (“positioner”). A positioner 90
PERCENT OF MAXIMUM TORQUE
compares the actual position of the actuator 80

90
PERCENT OF MAXIMUM TORQUE
with the control signal, and changes the pressure 70

80 Actual torque needed varies
to the diaphragm until the actuator assumes a 70
with blade type,torque
Actual pressure
needed varies
position that corresponds to the control signal. 60 drop, system effects,
with blade etc.pressure
type,
This reduces the hysteresis to about ¼ psi, or 50
60 drop, system effects, etc.
2½ - 5%, depending upon the operating range. 40
50
However, frequent recalibration is needed to 40
maintain the accuracy. 30
30
The additional cost of the positioner, and 20
its adjustment, must not be forgotten when 10
20
POSITIVE
comparisons are made between pneumatic and 10
NEGATIVE
0 NEGATIVE POSITIVE
electric actuators. 0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Torque 0 10 20 30 40 50
DEGREES OF DAMPER ROTATION 60 70 80 90
The torque required to operate a damper depends DEGREES OF DAMPER ROTATION
upon the size, type, quality and condition of the Figure 17. Typical Torque Requirement
damper. It is also dependent upon the differential
pressure and air flow. Contrary to popular belief, the maximum required torque is not always at the closed position. Typically, the maximum
torque requirement is found at about 30% open position. Refer to Figure 17.
Linkage
The actuator is connected to the damper via a linkage, which has a couple of ball joints, pivots and other elements that have some play.
The slack in the linkage can easily cause a 1 - 3% hysteresis, when the stress changes from a pulling force to a pushing force. This effect
requires the actuator to move about 1 - 3% before the damper begins to move. The amount of hysteresis depends upon the condition of
the linkage and how well it has been adjusted. If the linkage is improperly adjusted and the joints are worn, the hysteresis can actually be
larger than 5%.
8
Electronic Actuators
Electronic proportional actuators require both
Differential
a power source, usually 24 VAC, and a control Differential
Amplifier
Amplifier
signal, usually 2 to 10 VDC or 4 to 20 mA. Their ++
operation can be compared to a pneumatic Input
Input ––
actuator with a positive positioner. However, Input
InputSignal
Signal Signal
Signal ++
unlike its pneumatic counterpart, the electronic
2…10
2…10VV
4…20
4…20mA mA
Conditioner
Conditioner
MM
actuator requires no field calibration and usually ––
no field maintenance. The position feedback is
more precise than a pneumatic device because
of a repeatable, geared, interface between
the actual actuator position and its feedback 90°
90°
10V
10V
monitoring system. The feedback signal is also
usually available as an output from the actuator
to either monitor the actuator position or as Output
Output
signal for part of a control sequence. Refer to OutputSignal
Output Signal Signal
Signal 0V
0V
mechanical
mechanicalconnection with
Figure 18 and Figure 19. 2…10V
2…10V Conditioner
Conditioner 0°
0°
Gearbox
Gearbox
connection with
Figure 18 shows a typical potentiometer circuit Feedback

Feedback
Potentiometer
used to measure feedback. In this case, the Potentiometer
signal from the potentiometer is fed into a
differential amplifier along with the input signal. Figure 18. Actuator Positioning Circuit
The differential amplifier looks at the difference
between the input and feedback signal. It then
gives a signal to move the actuator clockwise
or counterclockwise until the feedback signal
matches the input signal. Figure 19 shows another
method which uses microprocessor technology.
In this case, a microprocessor communicates
to an application specific integrated circuit
(ASIC). The ASIC both controls and monitors a ASIC Brushless
ASIC
Motor-management
Brushless
DC Motor
brushless DC motor. By monitoring the digital Motor-management
DC Motor
pulses generated at the brushless DC motor, the
exact position of the actuator can be determined
by the microprocessor. The microprocessor also
allows for special control criteria to be used in
either operational characteristics or input signal
processing. INPUT INPUT SIGNAL MICRO- OUTPUT SIGNAL OUTPUT
SIGNAL
INPUT CONDITIONER
INPUT SIGNAL MICRO-
PROCESSOR CONDITIONER
OUTPUT SIGNAL SIGNAL
OUTPUT
Crank Arm Type 2…10
SIGNALVDC CONDITIONER
PROCESSOR CONDITIONER 2…10 VDC
SIGNAL
4…20VDC
2…10 mA 2…10 VDC
Legacy oil immersed gear train and 4…20 mA
electrohydraulic actuators typically have a small
hysteresis of about 1%. These actuators are
mounted to dampers in a similar manner as a Figure 19. ASIC Circuit
pneumatic actuator, by the use of a linkage. This,
as in the case of pneumatics, adds 1% to 3% of hysteresis to the system and care must be taken in its setup. Electrohydraulic actuators are
not gear type actuators; they work similarly to a pneumatic actuator by building up pressure against a spring. Because they work against a
spring they are subject to spring range shift.
Pneumatic
Direct Coupled without
Pneumatic Electronic with Belimo Direct
with Positioner Linkage Coupled
Direct coupled actuators, just as the crank arm type, have Positioner
a hysteresis of about 1%. However, this style of actuator
Actuator 12%a 2½-5%b 1% 1%
does not require the use of a linkage. Because of this,
the additional hysteresis of a linkage is not present. Linkage 1-3% 1-3% 1-3% None
Without a linkage between the actuator and damper, the
damper position can be controlled more accurately and E/P Transducer 2% 2% None None
the actuator torque is transmitted more efficiently to the
damper. Also, the installation time is dramatically reduced. Total 15-17% 5½-10% 2-4% 1%
Table 1 provides a comparison of several actuator/damper a
30% if undersized b
Before calibration drift
combinations and their relative accuracy; direct coupled
actuators are by far the most accurate. Table 1. Actuator Damper Positioning Accuracy
9
An exploded view of a typical Belimo direct

coupled actuator mounting method is shown in Damper shaft
Figure 20. It is easy to see just how simple and
straightforward this mounting method is. Direct
coupled mounting greatly reduces installation
time and lowers installation costs because fewer Damper shaft
parts are needed.
The difference between direct coupled mounting
and mounting using linkage is illustrated in Figure
21. Notice that the use of linkage often requires
mounting the actuator on an independently
located mounting bracket. The linkage itself
generally consists of at least two crank arms
Anti-rotation
connected by an operating rod attached to the strap
crank arms with ball joints. Linkage systems
can become quite complex and a number of
geometrical issues must be addressed that
can effect torque and response times. Refer Anti-rotation
Figure 20. strap
Direct Couple Mounting
to Belimo’s Mounting Methods Guide for more Direct coupled

information about damper linkages. with universal
mounting
It is also possible to mount a direct coupled clamp
actuator separately, and connect it to the damper

via a linkage. About 20% of installations require R
Direct coupled Crank arm type actuator
this, but it should be used only if it is completely 0 with
1 universal mounted using linkage
mounting
impossible to mount the actuator directly. The Belimo clamp
direct
Belimo mounting instructions for linkages must coupled
be followed. If it is an old installation, replace the actuator R
old ball joints with new ones that have the least Crank arm type actuator
mounted using linkage
possible play. It is important that the hysteresis
0 1
Belimo
be as small as possible. direct
coupled
actuator
Figure 21. Direct Couple Mounting vs. Crank Arm Type
10
Optimizing Economizer
Systems 100 FLOW VARIATION IN A REAL INSTALLATION
(VARIABLE DIFF. PRESSURE A – B)
100 FLOW VARIATION IN A REAL INSTALLATION
Sizing of Dampers 90
The installed characteristics are determined 90

by the authority of each damper. By sizing 80 EA
B
RA
each damper correctly, the installed EA
B
RA
80
characteristics of the dampers can be 70
chosen in such a way that they complement
FLOW
each other. 70
FLOW
60 TO OA MA
OF MAXIMUM
Examples of dampers that are poorly TA L F L O W A
matched are illustrated in Figure 22 and 60 TO OA MA
OF MAXIMUM
T AMA W A
L FLO
Figure 23. In Figure 22 the OA and RA 50
dampers are of opposed blade type, and 50

MA This MA flow variation will only be accomplished
PERCENT
under laboratory conditions, when the differential
have high authorities. The result is that the 40 This MA flow
pressure variation
across will only be(between
the economizer accomplished
A-B)
total air flow (MA) will not be constant. For
PERCENT
under
is heldlaboratory
constant. conditions, when the differential
In a real installation, duct work,
40 pressure across the economizer (betweenthe A-B)
example, when the dampers are in the mid 30
coils, filters,
variation.
fan curve,
is held constant.
InsteadIn athe
etc., will reduce
realeffect
installation,
will beduct
flow
thatwork,
the
OA = OPPOSED BLADE
position, the total flow will be much less RA = OPPOSED BLADE
coils, filters, pressure
differential fan curve,between
etc., will reduce
A-B will thevary.
flow
than normal. In Figure 23 the dampers are 30 OA = OPPOSED BLADE variation. Instead the effect will be
Actually, both the flow and pressure will vary. that the
20 differential pressure between A-B will vary.

of parallel type and have a very small (2%) 20 RA = OPPOSED BLADE
Y
%
AU
RA Actually, both the flow and pressure will vary.
authority. When the dampers are in the mid 20 OA RI
T 20
%
TH
RO
HO Y AU ARI
position the flow is much larger than normal. 10 UT
OAA ORI
T TH TY
% OR
20 TH
Dampers that have been selected and 10
A U IT
Y
sized so their installed characteristics 0 20
%
complement each other is illustrated in 0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90

Figure 24. The OA damper has opposed 0 10
OA Damper Degree Open (OA/RA Mixing Ratio)
20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
blades, and the RA damper has parallel OA Damper Degree Open (OA/RA Mixing Ratio)
blades. Both have an authority of 15%. As Figure 22. Example of Poorly Matched Dampers
illustrated, the total flow (MA) remains CONSTANT DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE A-B
rather constant regardless of the mixing This MA flow variation will only be accomplished under laboratory conditions, when the
CONSTANT DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE A-B)A-B
ratio. As long as the variation in the total differential pressure across
This MA flow variation
the economizer
will filters,
only be
(between is held constant. In a real
installation, duct work, coils, fanaccomplished under
curve, etc., will laboratory
reduce conditions,Instead
the flow variation. when the
flow (MA) is less than 15%, the dampers differential pressure across the economizer (between
pressure (between A-B) will vary, which will affect A-B) is heldtheconstant.
building In a real
pressure.
can be regarded as well matched. Of course, 200 installation, duct work, coils, filters, fan curve, etc., will reduce the flow variation. Instead the
A L F L will B
each damper has to be sized with respect 190 T O T A-B) O
differential pressure (between W vary, which will affect
EA
the building pressure.
RA
200
to the air flow and the available differential 180
190 TOT
AMA
L FLOW
EA
B
RA
pressure. The OA damper should always be 170
180
MA
sized for a larger flow than the EA damper. 160
170
The differential pressure across the RA
150 OA MA
damper is larger than across the EA damper, 160 A
so the RA damper will be the smallest. 140
150 OA MA
FLOW
A
130
It is important to remember that there must 140
FLOW
be a slightly negative pressure at point 120

OF MAXIMUM
130
FLOW VARIATION IN A REAL INSTALLATION
A, in order for the outside air to enter the 110
120 (VARIABLE DIFF. PRESSURE A – B)
OF MAXIMUM
building. The pressure at point B has to be 100

110
FLOW VARIATION IN A REAL INSTALLATION
slightly positive in order for the exhaust to 90
100
leave the building.
PERCENT
80
90
Very often the dampers are selected based
PERCENT
70
80 2%
Y
upon the available duct size, with little IT A
RA ORRAI ORI
60
R
AU AAU A
70 2%
U
concern for how well they are matched.

O
O
TY
TH UTH
TH TH
I A
50
60
In many installations, the OA damper is
R
O
2%O
TY TY
40
installed next to the weather louver, and 50 OA = PARALLEL BLADE
therefore has to be the same size to keep 30 RA = PARALLEL BLADE
2%
40
OA = PARALLEL BLADE
the velocity through the louver below 500 20
30 RA = PARALLEL BLADE
FPM to avoid snow and rain entering. This 10
20
results in a very small damper authority and 0
10
this makes the sizing of the RA damper very 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
0
important and demanding. OA Damper Degree Open (OA/RA Mixing Ratio)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
OA Damper Degree Open (OA/RA Mixing Ratio)
Figure 23. Example of Poorly Matched Dampers

11
Linearization
The installed flow characteristics of a damper 120
OA = OPPOSED RA = PARALLEL
at different authorities is very non-linear 120
110 OA = OPPOSED RA = PARALLEL
at the bottom and top part of the curve. 110
100
OW
T O TA L F L W
O
However, between about 10% and 80% flow, the T O T A L F LMA

100
90 MA

characteristics are rather linear for curves with 90
80 1R
RA
A EA
B
RA
5%
authorities between 1% to 50%. Refer to Figure 80 15% AUT EA
B
RA
70 AU HOR
6 and Figure 7. 70
TH
OR ITY
60 ITY
Most dampers are oversized, so there is no need 60
50
to open them fully, in order to get the desired 50
OA
40 MA
maximum flow. For example, if we limit the 40 OA A MA
maximum opening of a damper to 80% flow, the 30
30
IT
OIRTY
Y A
non-linear top portion can be eliminated. 20 OA THR

ATUHO
20 OA 5% U
10 1 A
Outside air dampers must provide a specified 10 15 %
minimum OA volume. Therefore, they must not 0

0
be modulated below a certain minimum position. 0

0 10
10
20
20 30
30 40
40
50
50
60
60 70
70 80
80
90
90
This is fortunate, because it eliminates the lower DAMPER POSITION, DEGREES OPEN (OA/RA Mixing Ratio)
DAMPER POSITION, DEGREES OPEN (OA/RA Mixing Ratio)
non-linear portion of the curve. From minimum
to maximum flow the damper now operates in
the linear portion of the characteristic curve. Figure 24. Example of Properly Match Dampers

The throttling range will be very small for an
opposed blade damper with a 1% authority
curve operated by a direct coupled actuator with INSTALLED FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AT
2-10 V control signal. To open the damper to a INSTALLED DAMPER
DIFFERENT FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AT
AUTHORITIES (1-100%)
DIFFERENT DAMPER AUTHORITIES (1-100%)
20% position (minimum flow), the control signal 100
100
is 2.8 V. To open the damper to an 80% flow, the 90
90 1%
control signal is 5.2 V. Only a 2.4 V change in the 80 2%
1% 3%
2%
control signal is required to throttle the damper 80
70 3% 4%
4% 5%
from minimum to maximum flow. Because 70
60 5% %
10
only a small portion of the operating range is 60 %
10 15
%
50
utilized for this application, the resulting MA 50
% %
15 20 0%
%3
20 %50%
temperature can be erratic if the control loop is 40
40 30 %
50 0%
not correctly tuned. Refer to Figure 25. 30
10
10
0%
30
20
Travel Adapted (MFT Actuators) 20
10
Belimo offers MFT damper actuators that can 10
0
improve the throttling performance described 0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
above in Figure 25. First adjust the actuators 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
end stop to match the desired maximum flow, DAMPER POSITION, DEGREES OPEN
DAMPER POSITION, DEGREES OPEN
and then initiate the adaption routine. The 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10V
adaption routine will scale the 2-10 VDC control 2 3
2.8V 4 5 5.2V 6 7 8 9 10V
signal over the mechanical rotation of 0° to 36°. 2.8V 5.2V
CONTROL SIGNAL
For non-spring return actuators (GM / AM / NM CONTROL SIGNAL
/ LM) press the manual override button once, for Figure 25. Installed Opposed Blade Damper Flow Characteristics
spring return actuators (AF, NF, LF, and TF) click
the CW/CCW switch twice. When adaptation is initiated, the actuator will drive one full cycle to its mechanical end stops. Upon completion
of this cycle, the actuators working range (input, feedback and running time) will be adapted to the actual mechanical angle of rotation.
Finally, determine the control signal required to achieve 20% flow as described above in the section titled “Ventilation Minimum Position.”
It is common practice to mechanically link the OA and RA dampers. This will save the expense of one actuator. Unfortunately, there are a
couple of serious disadvantages associated with this. The most obvious problem is that the linkage will add a hysteresis to the operation of
the RA damper. An even more serious problem is that the dampers have to be selected very carefully, so they are well matched. Otherwise
the mixing ratio will not be controlled in a linear way, the total flow will not be constant and the pressure will vary. Examples of poorly
matched dampers are illustrated in Figure 22 and Figure 23; and Figure 24 illustrates an example of correctly matched dampers.
By adapting the MFT actuator travel to the required maximum flow, the operation of the dampers can be modified so a more linear portion
of the dampers are used. This also allows poorly sized dampers to be operated so they can more accurately complement each other. The
full range of the control signal is utilized, and there will be a linear relationship between the OA/RA mixing ratio and the control signal. Also,
the pressure in the mixing plenum will be constant.
12
EA RA
As illustrated in Figure 26, each of the
dampers has its own actuator, so they can be
operated independently of each other. EA RA
60° - 0° 81° - 0°
It is possible to duplicate the function of Travel Travel
the travel adapted MFT actuators with the RA
software of a DDC system. This is acceptable,
60° - 0° 81° - 0°
but it is not necessarily a cost saving, because 0° - 36°
Travel Travel
the analog voltage values associated with the Travel
maximum flow must be programmed for each RA
actuator, rather than using a single 2-10 VDC 0° - 36°
control signal. Another problem is that the OA Travel MA SA
fine tuning of the adapted MFT travel should
be done in conjunction with the balancing,
and it is hard for the balancing contractor to
OA
access the DDC controller. MA SA
Choice of Dampers
In order to avoid air stratification one option is
to use a parallel blade damper mounted in the 2…10 V
CONTROL SIGNAL
RA section to cause the RA and OA airflow to
mix. The OA and EA dampers are both opposed
blade dampers that complement each other
2…10 V
and offer good throttling characteristics. CONTROL SIGNAL
Refer to Figure 27.
Because in many installations, the OA damper
has the same size as the weather louver, it will Figure 26. MFT Travel Adaption for Each Damper
be oversized in comparison to the flow, which
results in a low authority. Opposed blade
dampers have characteristics that can control
small air flows more accurately than parallel
blade dampers. For example: in order to EA RA
supply a 20% flow, an opposed blade damper,
with an authority of 1%, has to open to an 8°
position, while a parallel blade damper, with
the same authority, should open to a 2.5°
EA RA
position. Refer to Figure 28 and Figure 29. If
the total hysteresis in the actuator and linkage
is just 5°, the parallel blade damper may
supply anything from 0% to 46% minimum Parallel Blade
OA volume (0° to 7.5° damper position). The
positioning of an opposed blade damper is
not quite as critical. A 5° error will result in
an 8% to 30% deviation from the desired OA RA
Parallel Blade
volume (3° to 13° damper position), so the
opposed blade damper is a better choice
when the OA damper is oversized and has a OA MA SA
small authority. RA
The travel adapted MFT actuator allows the
dampers to operate in such a way that they Opposed Blade
complement each other. This is done by OA MA SA
limiting the damper movement to the linear
portion only, and it makes the task of sizing
Figure 27. Combination of Parallel and Opposed Blade Dampers
Opposed Blade
13
DAMPER POSITION DAMPER POSITION
DEGREES OPEN DEGREES OPEN DEGREES OPEN
}
}
}
}
DEGREES OPEN
}
}
}
–5° +5° –5° +5° –5° +5° –5° +5°
Hysteresis Hysteresis Hysteresis Hysteresis
the dampers less critical. However,

PARALLEL BLADE DAMPER OPPOSED BLADE DAMPER
this does not mean that it no longer PARALLEL BLADE DAMPER
INSTALLED FLOW CHARACTERISTICS
INSTALLED FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AT AT
OPPOSED BLADE DAMPER
INSTALLED FLOW CHARACTERISTICS
INSTALLED FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AT AT
matters how the dampers are sized.
DIFFERENT DAMPERDIFFERENT
60
AUTHORITIESDAMPER AUTHORITIES (1…100%)
(1…100%) DIFFERENT
DIFFERENT DAMPER DAMPER
AUTHORITIES AUTHORITIES (1…100%)
(1…100%)
60
60 60
If the dampers are correctly sized,
1%
1%
adapted MFT travel only needs modest

50 50
50 50
3%
3%
adjustment, and a large portion of the

1%
1%
5%
5%
%
damper movement can be utilized. 40 40 10% 10 40 40
3%
%
3%
%
15 % 15 %
However, if the dampers are poorly 30 0 20 30
5%
30 2 % 30
5%
matched, a larger correction has to 30
%
%
30
5 0% 10
% 10
%
0
be used, and only a small portion20 of 20 5
20 20 20%
% 100
% 20%
the damper movement can be used. 100
50% 50%
10 10 8
Travel adapted MFT actuators10will 10 8 100% 100%
allow a great latitude when sizing0 the 0 0 0

dampers, and even if the dampers are 020 10 2040 30 40 020 10 20 30 40
poorly matched, the function will be0 2.5 7.510 2.5 7.5
30 0 10 30 40
DAMPER POSITION 3 8 13 3 8 13
improved. However, the best result DAMPER POSITION
DEGREES OPEN DEGREES OPEN
DAMPER POSITIONDAMPER POSITION
}
}
DEGREES OPEN DEGREES OPEN
}
}
is achieved if the dampers are not
}
}
–5° +5°
}
}
–5° +5° –5° +5° –5° +5°

Hysteresis Hysteresis
excessively oversized. Hysteresis Hysteresis
Figure 28. Parallel Blade Damper Authority Figure 29. Opposed Blade Damper Authority

Summary
This guide has introduced a number of concepts. The importance of sizing and matching the dampers have been explained with respect to
the authority and control. Refer to the damper manufacturers tables, charts, and instructions for final calculation and sizing of the dampers.
Modernization of Old Installations

When an old installation is modernized with a DDC system, it can be tempting to keep the old actuators if they still are working. This is
always a very unfortunate decision, because of the poor accuracy provided by the legacy actuators. The full benefits of the DDC system will
not be realized because the dampers cannot be controlled accurately.
Most old installations have problematic damper control. They would see increased efficiency and reduced costs if the old actuators were
replaced with direct coupled MFT actuators with recommissioning of the OA airflow is performed.
Direct Coupled Actuators with MFT

Electronic direct coupled actuators offer a tremendous advantage because they are very accurate, and can position the dampers with the
smallest possible hysteresis. If used in conjunction with the travel adapted MFT actuators, the dampers can be operated at a much superior
level of control than would otherwise be possible.
Travel adapted MFT actuators offer the following advantages:
•• Sizing of the dampers is simplified because the dampers need not be perfectly matched.
•• Mixed air temperature control is improved.
•• Total flow will remain constant regardless of the mixing ratio.
•• Pressure in the mixing plenum will remain constant.
•• Travel adapted MFT actuators require a simple end stop adjustment before the adaption routine is initiated. Flow measurements and
adjustments are achieved at the same location.
14
Belimo Americas
USA, Latin America, and the Caribbean: www.belimo.us
Canada: www.belimo.ca
Brazil: www.belimo.com.br
Belimo Worldwide: www.belimo.com

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Damper Actuator Applications Guide

Optimizing Economizer Systems

Introduction to Economizer Systems

Indoor Air Quality

Opposed and Parallel Blade Dampers

PARALLEL BLADE OPPOSED BLADE

Flow Characteristics FLOW FLOW

The two types of dampers have different % %

“inherent flow characteristics”. This can FLOW

be illustrated by a curve that shows the 90%

relationship between the flow rate and the 80100

position of the blades. 70

and opposed blade dampers are different, 7070

and neither has a linear characteristic. Refer 6060

U_11010 - 02/19 - Subject to change. © Belimo Aircontrols (USA), Inc.

damper begins to open, the differential pressure

Figure 5A. Total System Pressure Drop

total pressure drop. For example, as the damper

Figure 5B. Damper Pressure Drop

authority is 100%, the installed damper characteristic is 20

Figure 7. Opposed Blade Damper Flow Characteristics

damper. When the OA damper is completely closed, the

U_11010 - 02/19 - Subject to change. © Belimo Aircontrols (USA), Inc.

The authority of the EA damper is determined by the fully 8080 Ideally

flow. The total flow should be constant regardless of the 2020

dampers are poorly matched. These factors result in a %%

Note: For further details on this topic reference the book,

Additional Considerations ∆PD

Ventilation Minimum Position ∆PD

maintain a constant mixed air (MA) temperature. OA A SA

The air balancer can set minimum OA ventilation airflow with OA A SA

ventilation minimum position is set correctly, the mixed air Authority

The minimum amount of outside air volume intake is controlled 120

by limiting the modulation of the dampers to a minimum position. 100

because a small positioning error will have a disproportionately 100

large effect upon the minimum outside air volume.

modulated in unison with the RA and EA dampers, as described 80

is running. This damper supplies the minimum OA volume and

may be modulated to achieve variable flow settings in VAV AHU's. 60

Refer to Figure 12. 40

Figure 11. Poorly Matched Dampers

Mixed Air Temperature Control

U_11010 - 02/19 - Subject to change. © Belimo Aircontrols (USA), Inc.

tend to turn them either clockwise or counterclockwise,

The actuators are usually controlled by a modulating 60 A

control signal, most commonly 2-10VDC. Ideally, the 50

All actuators have some hysteresis, which means that 0

Hysteresis creates two serious problems. First, it adds

control. Second, it makes the positioning of the actuators FS

control signal is increased from zero (closed OA damper) STEM

result. If the control signal is decreased from a high value SID

OA damper, a higher than desired minimum position FA = FS + FR + FL

12 Damper Load Negative and/or Positive N-L

even if advanced controllers are used. 8 B

accurately, the minimum OA volume will be smaller or 7

larger than the required value. A lower volume will result 12

an understanding of their operation is essential. They 8.75 EFFECTIVE DIAPHRAGM