The SRD960 is Schneider Electric's universal intelligent valve positioner - an electro-pneumatic controller that drives linear or rotary pneumatic actuators with HART, FOUNDATION Fieldbus, or PROFIBUS PA and a backlit multilingual LCD.

Why universal rather than a basic positioner?

A basic positioner only holds stroke; the SRD960 adds auto-start self-calibration, valve-signature and on-line friction diagnostics, and a Partial Stroke Test (PST) for emergency-shutdown valves - so a creeping stem is caught in a routine test, not during a trip. The alternative is a dumb positioner that fails silently until the ESD valve will not move.

How does it fit any actuator?

It clamps to linear actuators (8-260 mm) and rotary actuators (up to 95°, adapter to 300°) per NAMUR and VDI/VDE 3845, single or double-acting, on 1.4-6 bar supply. The alternative - a brand-locked positioner - limits a plant to one actuator maker.

What keeps it alive in a hazardous area?

The flameproof IP66 / NEMA 4X housing carries ATEX, IECEx, FM, and CSA approvals and is SIL 3 capable, so it mounts in Zone 1/2 or Class I Div 1 without an external barrier. The alternative - a non-certified unit - cannot sit in the classified area at all.