System for evaluating the condition and performance of a valve and valve operator combination and sensor for measuring forces on a valve stem

摘要

A device for measuring and indicating the forces on a valve stem (24) over at least a portion of the valve strokes is comprised of a strain sensor (38) secured to the valve yoke (16) for sensing strains experienced by the valve yoke (16). The sensed strains are proportional to the forces on the valve yoke (16) and are equal but opposite to the forces on the valve stem (24). The strain sensor (38) generates electrical signals proportional to the forces on the valve stem (24). A display (74), electrically connected to the strain sensor (38), is provided for receiving the generated electrical signals and for indicating the forces on the valve stem (24). A system for evaluating the performance of a valve (12) and valve operator (14), also utilizes the yoke strain sensor (38) in combination with other sensors, including a second strain sensor (220) for sensing strains experienced by the valve operator housing (14), a valve stem motion sensor (90), a spring pack motion sensor (102), a motor current sensor (104), a vibration sensor (105) and, possibly, a stem strain sensor (86), as well as an indicator (106) of the condition of torque and limit switches.