What is the meaning of the S2 working system in the field of actuators (motorized valves)?
Many friends have questions about the S2 operating system in actuators or motorized valves, what do they really mean? Why is there such a definition?
I. The definitions of S1, S2, S3 and S6 work systems are derived from electric motors.
The working system is defined with the thermal balance of the motor as the target of consideration, and the purpose is to ensure that the motor does not continue to rise in temperature and enter an overheating state.
- S1: Continuous operation system: the operating time under constant load is sufficient to achieve thermal stabilization.
- S2: short-time working system: under a constant load according to a given time to run, the time is not enough to achieve thermal stabilization, and then that is to cut off the ability to stop for a sufficient period of time, so that the motor is again cooled to the temperature difference with the cooling medium in 2K or less.
- S3: Intermittent cycle operation: Operation in a series of identical cycles, each cycle consisting of a period of constant load operation and a period of intermittent stopping. The starting current of each cycle in this type of operation does not significantly affect the temperature rise.
- S6: Continuous cycle operation system: operate in a series of identical operating cycles, each cycle includes a period of constant load operation time and a period of no-load operation time, but no intermittent stopping time.

II. S2 work system in the actuator field.
The actuator (motorized valve) is driven by an electric motor. Therefore, the working system is defined, also to ensure that the motor in the actuator will not continue to warm up and go into overheating. JB/T 8219-2016 Ordinary and Intelligent Electric Actuators for Industrial Process Control Systems clearly defines the requirements for this parameter, and the temperature rise of the actuator shall not exceed 60°C.
This system of work is generally expressed as:
- S2-75%: Continuous energization rate (ratio of time to actuate valve operation)
- S2-30min: Continuous energization time (time to drive valve operation)
In general, the following factors need to be considered in the use of actuators (motorized valves):
- The S2 operating system of the actuator is defined under the conditions of rated operating temperature and rated load.
- In case the actual operating temperature is lower than the rated temperature, the energization time in the S2 operating regime can be extended and vice versa.
- In case the actual operating load is lower than the rated load, the energization time in the S2 operating regime can be extended and vice versa.

Related Technical Articles:
EN15714-2 Classification of electric actuator control methods (duty)