4–20mA Modulating Ball Valve vs On/Off Motorized Ball Valve: Key Differences

Motorized valves are widely used in modern industrial automation and water treatment applications.

Based on actuator functionality, motorized ball valves are typically categorized into two types: 4-20mA angle-regulating valves and on/off valves.

Many valve procurement personnel encounter the following dilemma when selecting products:

Should I choose a 4-20mA modulating valve or an On/Off motorized ball valve?

This article will compare these two types of motorized valves from various perspectives to assist valve procurement personnel in making the right choice.

What is a 4–20mA Modulating Ball Valve?

4–20mA motorized ball valve with angle adjustment is controlled by a 4–20mA current signal to modulate the ball valve's angle between 0 and 90 degrees.

4mA: Valve fully closed

20mA: Valve fully open

This falls under Proportional Control, enabling precise adjustment of flow rates.

Key Features：

The valve opening can be adjusted; it is not limited to fully open or fully closed positions.

Suitable for closed-loop control systems.

Commonly used in conjunction with DCS and PLC control systems.

What is an On/Off Motorized Ball Valve?

On/Off motorized ball valves represent the most fundamental type of automated valve.

The actuator only accepts open and close control signals, allowing the valve to operate in either fully open or fully closed positions.

Key Features：

Simple structure, less prone to malfunctions

Lower cost

Easier installation and maintenance

4–20mA Modulating vs On/Off

1. Functional Differences

4-20mA Modulating Type: Adjusts valve angle via control signals to precisely regulate flow.

On/Off Type: Responds to switch signals with only open and closed actions.

2. control capability

Modulating Ball Valve: Precisely adjusts flow rate according to user requirements.

On/Off Ball Valve: Only provides on/off functionality and cannot meet flow control requirements in systems.

3. System Complexity and Cost

4–20mA Adjustable Type:

More complex system functionality

Higher procurement cost but more stable operation

On/Off Type:

Simpler system

Lower procurement cost

Lower installation and maintenance costs

How to Select the Right Motorized Valve

When selecting a product, the following factors should be considered:

1. Does the project require flow or pressure regulation capabilities?

2. Will a PLC or other automated control system be used?

3. Project budget

Jinfeng Valve Solutions

As a professional manufacturer of motorized valves, Jinfeng Valve offers a wide range of motorized valve solutions.

4–20mA Modulating Motorized Ball Valve

On/Off Motorized Ball Valve

Normally Open/Normally Closed Motorized Valve

Wireless Thermostatic Valve

HVAC Valve

Jinfeng Valve provides high-quality valve products tailored to customer requirements, meeting the diverse needs of automation systems.

Summary

There is no inherent superiority between 4–20mA modulating motorized ball valves and On/Off motorized ball valves. The choice primarily depends on the application scenario and system requirements.