Modulating Valve vs Motorized Valve

What is the difference between a Modulating Valve and a Motorized Valve?

In water treatment, agricultural irrigation, and automated equipment, motorized valves are critical components within piping systems. The two most common types are Modulating Valves and Motorized Valves. Both are actuator-driven, but their specific functions are entirely different.

 

 

 

What is a Modulating Valve?

A modulating valve not only functions as an on/off switch but also adjusts the valve opening within a 0-100% range. It can stop at any angle, enabling precise flow regulation.

Features of the Modulating Valve

Supported Control Signals: 4-20mA, 0-10V, three-point control.

Enables precise flow regulation.

Application Areas:

Air-conditioning water systems

Automated equipment with PID controllers

---

What is a Motorized Valve?

A motorized valve refers to a valve driven by an electric actuator, typically an electric ball valve or electric butterfly valve with on/off functionality.

Motorized valves can also be equipped with angle adjustment functionality, but the term “motorized valve” as commonly used in the market refers to on/off valves.

Features of Motorized Valves:

- Switching valves

- Electrical signals primarily controlled by AC/DC power

- Lower cost

- Long service life

Application Areas

Automated Water Supply Systems

Agricultural Irrigation

Water Purification Equipment

---

Modulating Valve vs Motorized Valve: Key Differences Comparison

	Modulating Valve	Motorized Valve
Control Method	4-20mA/0-10V	Switching electrical signals
Opening Control	0-90° angle adjustment	Fully Open/Fully Closed
Control Accuracy	High-precision modulation	Low, Switch Only
Cost	High	Low
Wiring Method	Relatively complex	Simple
Application	HVAC regulation	Water Treatment

---

How to Select the Right Valve

Situations Suitable for Modulating Valves:

Process conditions requiring “adjustable” flow

Industrial control scenarios where valve angle is specified by PLC controllers

Situations where Motorized Valves are suitable:

Pipelines requiring only open/close functionality

Cost-budget prioritization

For most water treatment, smart home, and equipment automation projects, Motorized Valves (on/off type) are sufficient.

For HVAC or industrial automation, Modulating Valves are more recommended.

---

Our Factory Advantages

As a professional motorized valve manufacturer, Jinfeng Valve offers:

4-20mA/0-10V modulating electric valves

Motorized Ball Valves, Motorized Butterfly Valves (DN8-DN600)

200-cycle on/off testing before shipment

CE, WARS, ISO, NSF, RoHS certifications

Fast delivery, competitive pricing, and excellent after-sales service