A model MH35Ts-18 actuator, with in-cylinder transducer, has infinite positioning capability to control an angular knife gate to regulate bin unloading. This minimizes ash spillage during the loading of mobile trucks.

The original actuators were 10 inch diameter air cylinders that were compromised by low power and poor regulating capabilities. In cold weather conditions, icing was a continuous problem.

The KMI flange mounted actuator has a bore diameter of 3-1/4” to produce a maximum operating thrust of 20,000 lbs at 2500 psi. For this application, maximum thrust was limited to 16,000 lbs.

Total stroke extension - 18 inches.

Push and pull speed - 2-1/2 inches per second.

Drive power is from a 3 hp 460Vac induction motor controlled by reversing contactors to provide CW and CCW rotation for opening and closing the gate.

The in-cylinder transducer is a non-contact magnetostrictive type completely protected from the environment. Signal output for PID positioning is 4-20mA.

To counteract the effect of vector forces acting on the gate - due to bin load, tending to drive the actuator down, a counterbalance valve controls the effect providing a smooth controlled motion during gate closing.