Foxboro P0916DC Pneumatic Valve Positioner

Technical Specifications:

• Input Signal: 4-20 mA DC
• Output Signal: 6-30 psi (0.4-2.0 bar) — standard for DC models
• Alternate Output: 3-15 psi (0.2-1.0 bar) — selectable via internal jumpers
• Supply Pressure: 40 psi (2.8 bar) nominal (higher than standard due to DA requirements)
• Actuator Type: Double-acting cylinder
• Ambient Temperature: -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
• Housing Material: Aluminum die-cast
• Enclosure Rating: IP66 / NEMA 4X
• Response Time: ≤ 1 second
• Accuracy: ±1% of span
• Maximum Actuator Thrust: Up to 10,000 lbf (44,482 N) with appropriate actuator

Functional Features:

• 6-30 psi output range provides full actuator stroke in both directions
• Bidirectional air supply to actuator (air-to-open AND air-to-close)
• Faster stroke speed compared to single-acting with spring return
• Higher seat load capacity for tight shutoff applications
• Fail-safe action via solenoid valve (air-lock or air-vent)

Performance Parameters:

• Deadband: Less than 0.5% of travel
• Hysteresis: Less than 0.5% of span
• Stroke Time: 50% faster than equivalent single-acting (typical)
• Supply Effect: Less than 0.3% per 1 psi supply change
• Output Pressure Range: 6-30 psi (0.4-2.0 bar) linear with 4-20 mA input

Structural Features:

• Reinforced housing to handle higher internal air pressures
• Dual output ports — one for extend, one for retract
• Solenoid valve interface for fail-safe action (external solenoid required)
• Heavy-duty feedback linkage for large actuator forces
• Upgraded internal seals for 6-30 psi service

Working Principle:
The P0916DC receives a 4-20 mA DC signal. At 4 mA, the positioner outputs 6 psi to the close port and 30 psi to the open port (or vice versa depending on configuration). At 20 mA, the outputs reverse: 30 psi to the close port and 6 psi to the open port. At 12 mA (mid-signal), both ports are at 18 psi (mid-range), holding the valve in position. The force-balance feedback loop ensures the valve stem position precisely matches the input signal. The solenoid valve (mounted externally) provides fail-safe action by venting or pressurizing both ports on signal loss.

Advantages:

• Full bidirectional control with higher thrust
• Faster response for large valves and high-pressure drop service
• Better shutoff due to higher seat load
• 6-30 psi output standard for DA actuators
• Reduced actuator size for equivalent thrust (vs. single-acting)

Applicable Industries:

• Oil and Gas (large ball valves, butterfly valves)
• Power Generation (main steam isolation valves)
• Chemical Processing (large globe valves, high-pressure drop)
• Pipeline (block valves, 12″ and larger)
• LNG (cryogenic butterfly valves)

Installation Requirements:

• Supply pressure must be 40 psi (2.8 bar) minimum for 6-30 psi output
• Install external solenoid valve for fail-safe function (Foxboro 873FV or equivalent)
• Connect both output ports to actuator — do not cap either port
• Use minimum 3/4″ NPT air supply line
• Verify actuator is rated for 6-30 psi operation