The Superthrust Actuator is an advanced electro-hydraulic modulating actuator developed by M.E.A. for FCCU (Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit) slide valve applications in refineries. M.E.A. introduced the high performance actuators in the field in 1979. Every actuator is assembled, tested and calibrated at the factory. On site installation requires only physical mounting, connection of control signal and DC feedback for split unit actuators. Hydraulic lines and electronic cables are connected to the position actuator from the hydraulic power and control unit. Minimum field piping is required for one slide valve system.

The split unit has the hydraulic power and control unit mounted separately from the slide valve position actuator assembly. Actuator standard stroke lengths vary from 12 inches to 42 inches in 6 inch increments. Strokes up to 60 inches are available. Operating thrusts vary from 2,000 to 30,000 pounds. Standard stroking speed under modulating control may vary from 1 inch per second to 5 seconds for full stroke. Many other special lengths are available. Larger thrusts are available.

The typical M.E.A HPU (Hydraulic Power Unit) uses a variable volume pressure compensated pump for two specific advantages:

• No pressure relief valve required which generates heat and could be a potential problem.
• The system is sized for an operating pressure at a given speed but when the slide valve starts to stick, the speed will be reduced and the thrust will be increased. This helps break loose a sticking slide valve.

The M.E.A. Actuator may be applied to most slide valves. The M.E.A. Actuator is designed to meet different specification such as U.O.P., Kellogg, Stone & Webster, Exxon, etc. These specifications vary in many details but they are met by the M.E.A. Actuators.

The M.E.A. Redundant Digital Control has too many advantages to list them all here.  Please refer to the Redundant Digital Control page with in this web site.

• M.E.A. Incorporated can offer 4 variations of control:
  • Single Analog Redundant Control
  • Redundant Analog Control
  • Single Digital Control
  • Redundant Digital Control

M.E.A. Incorporated recommends Redundant Digital Control which is designed for 100% reliability.  It has been proven over 6 years in field service.