Method and system for operating actuators

A method for operating an actuator for a flow control valve or the like, wherein the actuator comprises:

• an electric motor for driving an output shaft connected to a flow control valve;
• an electric power supply for powering the electric motor, wherein the electric power has a characteristic feature defining an intended direction of drive of the electric motor;
• a sensor for detecting the characteristic feature;
• an operable connector for connecting the electric power supply to the electric motor;
• and
• a control system arranged to operate the connector to connect the electric current power supply to the electric motor;
• the method comprising:
• providing electric power on the supply;
• using the sensor to detect the characteristic feature of the electric power;
• using the control system to:
• determine the intended direction of drive of the electric motor from an output of the sensor indicative of the characteristic feature of the electric power;
• and
• determine if the actuator complies with a set of predetermined operating conditions for operation of the electric motor in the intended direction;
• and either
• inhibiting operation of the electric motor if the actuator does not comply with any of the set of predetermined operating conditions;
• or
• operating the connector to connect the electric power supply to the electric motor if the actuator complies with the set of predetermined operating conditions for operation of the electric motor in the intended direction.