Description

Woodward  TG-13  actuator

Core working principle
Signal reception and conversion
The TG-13 actuator receives a DC control signal of 20-160mA, which is usually sent by the control system (such as the Woodward electronic controller). The electronic module inside the actuator will linearly and proportionally convert this electrical signal into mechanical action instructions to determine the rotation Angle and position of the output shaft, and then correspond to the opening degree of the valve or the operating status of the equipment.
2. Power transmission and actuator
As an electro-hydraulic actuator, TG-13 has its own independent oil source and realizes power transmission through the hydraulic system:
When the control signal is input, the electro-hydraulic conversion element (such as a servo valve) adjusts the flow direction and pressure of the hydraulic oil according to the signal size.
Hydraulic oil drives the actuator (such as piston or hydraulic cylinder) to move, and then the hydraulic energy is converted into the rotational motion of the output shaft through mechanical transmission structures (such as gears, connecting rods).

3. Speed drop control and stability guarantee
The TG-13 is equipped with a speed descent control function, which is a key design for ensuring control stability:
When the load changes, the actuator can automatically compensate for the speed deviation caused by load fluctuations by adjusting the output torque and rotational speed, thus avoiding significant fluctuations in the operating speed of the equipment.
For instance, when a steam turbine drives a generator or pump load, if the load suddenly increases and the speed drops, the speed control function will adjust the valve opening in real time, increase the input of energy medium (such as steam), maintain a stable speed, and prevent system overload or shutdown.
4. Bidirectional rotation and structural adaptation
The output shaft extends from both sides of the housing, and the governor drive can rotate in both directions, which enables it to adapt to the mechanical load requirements in different directions (such as forward and reverse valve control, bidirectional drive equipment, etc.).
The compact structural design makes it easy to install in scenarios with limited space. Meanwhile, the bidirectional rotation function, in combination with the bidirectional power transmission of the hydraulic system, enhances the flexibility and applicability of the actuator.

Collaborative operation with the controller
TG-13 is compatible with electronic controllers such as Woodward, and its working principle can be simplified to the following collaborative process:
The controller outputs a 20-160mA control signal according to the system requirements (such as load changes and speed Settings).
TG-13 receives signals and converts them into hydraulic actions, driving the output shaft to rotate and adjust the valve opening (such as a steam valve).
The change in the valve opening degree controls the flow rate of the energy medium, thereby adjusting the turbine speed or load distribution. Meanwhile, the actuator transmits the actual state back to the controller through a feedback mechanism (such as a position sensor), forming a closed-loop control to ensure accuracy.

The principle manifestation in the application scenario
Take driving a steam turbine generator as an example:
When the load of the power grid increases, the load of the generator rises and the rotational speed may decrease. At this time, the controller sends a signal to TG-13. The actuator increases the opening degree of the steam valve through the hydraulic system, increases the steam input, the turbine speed rebounds, and maintains the stability of the power generation frequency. Conversely, when the load decreases, the actuator reduces the valve opening to prevent excessive rotational speed.
The speed drop control function adjusts the torque output in real time during this process to ensure that the speed fluctuation is within the allowable range, achieving differential speed regulation and load distribution.

Based on the above principles, TG-13 achieves precise conversion from electrical signals to mechanical actions. Meanwhile, through hydraulic drive and speed control mechanisms, it ensures the stable operation of industrial equipment under different working conditions.