Linear valve actuator system and method for controlling valve operation

A control method for a valve, the method comprising:

• applying a first voltage at a first polarity to a stationary coil to accelerate the valve in an opening direction at a first opening acceleration rate;
• applying to the stationary coil a second voltage at a polarity opposite the first polarity to decelerate the valve until it reaches a predetermined open position less than or equal to a fully open position;
• holding the valve at the predetermined open position;
• applying to the stationary coil a third voltage at a polarity opposite the first polarity to accelerate the valve member in a closing direction with a first closing acceleration rate;
• applying to the stationary coil a fourth voltage at a polarity opposite the third polarity to decelerate the valve until it reaches a predetermined closing position adjacent a valve seat;
• and
• applying to the stationary coil a fifth voltage at a polarity opposite the first polarity such that one or more polarity reversals soft seat the valve and hold it in a closed position.