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Why Does an Electric Actuator Overheat During Operation?
Learn how cycling, valve resistance, electrical conditions and the installa...
Performance & Power: 3 kN to 30 kN Thrust Range (HUBL2/3/4) powered by High-Efficiency Brushless DC Motors Robust Protection: IP65 Weatherproof Anodized & Powder-Coated Aluminum Alloy Housing Smart Control & Safety: Non-Intrusive OLED Digital Calibration & Battery-Assisted Manual Override (Zero Position Loss) Quality & Assurance: CE & ISO 9001 Certified | 18-Month Factory Warranty
We have developed the HUBL series of intelligent linear electric actuators, designed to provide smooth, high-precision linear motion for globe valves, control valves, and diaphragm valves in demanding industrial environments. Whether you are an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) assembling complete valve systems or a distributor serving local industrial projects, we will provide you with solid business support through factory-direct precision quality, flexible customization capabilities, and comprehensive technical support.
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Feature & Technical Spec |
Engineering & Buyer Advantage |
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Brushless DC Motor Technology Hearken Flow uses high-efficiency brushless DC motors with Class F insulation (power range: 18 W to 120 W) that support 24 VDC or 220 VAC power supplies. |
Our HUBL series linear actuators’ motors can avoid carbon brush wear and reduce thermal stress, greatly extending service life while lowering energy consumption, helping you minimize on-site failures and after-sales warranty costs. |
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Multi-Range Thrust & Linear Stroke Hearken Flow offers precision linear actuators with thrust ranges from 3 kN to 30 kN (HUBL2/3/4 models), with standard stroke lengths ranging from 40 mm to 100 mm. |
We help you standardize your automated production lines using a single series of linear electric actuators, and you can select the appropriate model (HUBL2, HUBL3, or HUBL4) based on the valve size, stroke, and thrust requirements of different projects. |
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Non-Intrusive OLED Panel Calibration We use the integrated external OLED digital screen with push buttons for setting stroke limits and control parameters without opening the enclosure. |
We provide true non-intrusive field setup through the external OLED panel. There is no need to open the housing cover during commissioning, which not only saves setup time but also protects the internal electronic components from rain, dust, and moisture, providing 100% protection. |
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Adjustable Deadband & High Control Accuracy Hearken Flow HUBL series linear electric actuator offers precision digital deadband adjustment (1.0% to 1.5%) with support for 4–20 mA as standard, custom 0–5 V or 2–10 V |
Our actuator can avoid continuous motor oscillation (hunting), preserving valve seat integrity and ensuring stable flow regulation for your end-users. |
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Smart Manual Override with Battery Wake-Up We offer a pull-out clutch handwheel with a battery-backed wake-up button that can power the display even during a complete power outage. |
During emergency manual operation, our HUBL series linear electric actuator keeps absolute encoder feedback, thereby avoiding travel signal drift and sparing end users costly downtime caused by recalibration after power is restored. |
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IP65 Weatherproof Anodized Housing Hearken Flow uses a heavy-duty aluminum alloy housing treated with anodizing and polyester powder coating. Operating temp: -20°C to +55°C. |
Our HUBL series linear electric actuators protect internal electrical and mechanical drive components from harsh outdoor weather, chemical fumes, and high humidity in demanding industrial environments. |
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Seismic & Vibration Resistance (10g) The HUBL series linear electric actuators feature a vibration resistance of 10 g along the X, Y, and Z axes (frequency range: 0.2–34 Hz, for 30 minutes). |
Our actuators ensure that both electronic and mechanical performance remain stable in high-vibration environments such as pump stations, power plants, and ships. |
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Standardized OEM Flange & Stem Interface Hearken Flow offers flange connections (Ø80, Ø105, Ø170 mm) and center stem through-holes of M8, M16×1.5, or M20×1.5. |
This allows customers to mount our HUBL series linear actuators directly onto standard valve yokes and brackets, eliminating the need for complex and costly custom adapters. |
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Optional Internal Anti-Condensation Heater Hearken Flow HUBL series linear electric actuator is available with an optional built-in heater, designed specifically for low-temperature or high-humidity operating environments. |
This keeps the internal electronic components completely dry and keeps the continue to function properly, avoiding short circuits in cold outdoor conditions or in tropical environments with high humidity. |
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ISO 9001, CE Certified & 18-Month Warranty Our HUBL series linear electric actuators are manufactured in accordance with the ISO 9001 quality management system, are CE-certified, hold SIL3 certification, and undergo 100% load testing before shipment. |
These certifications simplify the technical review process during project bidding and come with an 18-month manufacturer’s warranty, ensuring a worry-free procurement experience. |
Both our HUBL and HUSL series are high-precision electric linear actuators designed for globe valves, control valves, and diaphragm valves. However, they are optimized for different mechanical configurations, control preferences, and project budgets. The comparison below will help you choose the right series.
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Specification |
HUBL Series: Compact & Cost-Effective |
HUSL Series: Heavy-Duty, Certified & Non-Intrusive |
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Motor and Drive |
High-efficiency brushless DC (BLDC) motor equipped with a compact spur gear/planetary gear transmission system. |
Heavy-duty squirrel-cage induction motor (Class E/F insulation) equipped with an internal self-locking worm gear drive (no clutch required). |
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Thrust and Stroke |
Thrust ranges from 1 kN to 30 kN; stroke range from 30 mm to 100 mm. |
Thrust ranges from 1.5 kN to 50 kN; stroke ranges from 25 mm to 100 mm. |
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Control and Display |
Integrated digital display supporting 4-button parameter settings and 4–20 mA modulating (M1) input/output. |
Full 128×64 graphical LCD with non-intrusive infrared remote setup and external local/remote knobs (without opening the enclosure). |
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Manual Operation |
Pull-out clutch handwheel. |
Clutchless direct drive—turn handwheel directly at any time. |
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Enclosure |
IP65 weatherproof protection rating, suitable for safe, non-hazardous areas (e.g., HVAC, light industry, water treatment). |
IP67 weatherproof protection rating (optional IP68 submersible rating), with Exd IIC T6Gb explosion-proof certification available. |
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Power Supply |
24 VDC, 110 V/220 VAC, and 380 VAC three-phase power |
24 VDC, 110 V/220 VAC, and 380 V/440 V three-phase power (ICM models feature automatic phase sequence correction). |
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Applications |
Cost-sensitive OEM valve |
Demanding process control loops, hazardous areas in the oil and gas/chemical industries, steam lines, and projects compliant with international bidding specifications. |
Cost-effective automation solution: Designed specifically for standard commercial and light industrial valves that do not require heavy-duty explosion-proof enclosures.
Compact brushless DC (BLDC) drive: Uses a high-efficiency brushless DC motor, greatly reducing the overall size and weight for easy installation on piping.
Digital 4–20 mA Control: Equipped with an integrated digital display and four-button parameter configuration for precise proportional flow control.
Thrust Range (1–30 kN): Offers thrust ranging from 1 kN to 30 kN with stroke lengths from 30 mm to 100 mm, suitable for compact globe valves and control valves.
If your project requirements exceed standard safety zone specifications, consider our heavy-duty HUSL series linear electric actuator:
Hazardous Gas or Dust Zones: Suitable for chemical, oil and gas, or refining process circuits that require Exd IIC T6Gb explosion-proof certification.
Higher thrust requirements: Valve shut-off thrust exceeding 30 kN (the HUSL Series supports thrusts up to 50 kN).
Non-invasive commissioning: Suitable for outdoor or humid environments where infrared remote calibration is required without opening the enclosure cover.
Clutchless Emergency Override: Required in the event of a power failure, allowing the valve to be operated directly through the handwheel without engaging the mechanical clutch handle.
When we designed the HUBL series linear electric actuators, our primary goal was to avoid frequent maintenance and unplanned downtime for the valve systems. By integrating a high-efficiency brushless motor, we removed carbon brush wear. In addition, we have built-in non-intrusive OLED diagnostic protocols allowing you to quickly troubleshoot issues—such as anomalies encountered during commissioning or long-term operation—without compromising the enclosure’s seal.
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Problem |
Possible Cause |
How do we solve it? |
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Handwheel feels jammed or resists rotation during power operation |
Handwheel is in the pushed-in neutral position, or the HUBL series linear electric actuator is currently locked in automatic remote control mode. |
Our manual uses the dual-safety clutch design. First, pull the handwheel outward to engage manual drive, then press the A/M button on the control panel (or disconnect the remote signal) to safely switch the actuator to manual mode before turning the handwheel. |
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Stroke calibration shifted after manual operation during a blackout |
The handwheel was turned. While the OLED screen was completely off during a power outage. |
We have included a battery-powered wake-up button on the panel to protect travel calibration settings. During a power outage, be sure to press and hold the wake-up button until the OLED screen lights up before turning the handwheel. If the limit positions have shifted, we can recalibrate the on/off limits using our non-intrusive menu. |
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When the “Wake-Up” button is pressed, the OLED display shows nothing or displays the message “Replace Battery.” |
The internal backup battery voltage is depleted or low. |
We rely on this backup battery to power the absolute position encoder’s display when the mains power is cut off. We suggest replacing the internal battery immediately to keep the system from continuing to track the travel position without interruption. |
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The handwheel turns freely but does not drive the valve stem. |
The manual clutch is disengaged or is still in the neutral position. |
We have simplified the manual engagement procedure—only need to pull the handwheel outward until the clutch engages firmly with the main drive shaft assembly. |
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Valve position hunting or continuous oscillation around the setpoint |
The control deadband is set too narrow for high-friction valve packing. |
We have integrated the adjustable digital deadband control feature into the firmware. We suggest accessing the non-intrusive settings menu and widening the deadband setting from 1.0% to 1.5% to stabilize control sensitivity and avoid premature valve wear. |
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Actuator does not respond to 4–20 mA remote control signals |
The actuator is left in local manual mode, or the polarity of the incoming signal wire is reversed. |
We can perform live signal diagnostics directly on the screen. We suggest checking our OLED display to confirm that the HUBL series linear electric valve actuator is in Auto mode, then using the signal query menu to verify live mA inputs and recalibrate control limits. |
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4–20 mA feedback signal does not match the actual valve position. |
The feedback output limits have not been calibrated or have drifted since installation. |
We have designed a fast 2-point digital calibration procedure in the menu. We advise navigating to the Signal Calibration section and using the front-panel buttons to perform the 4–20 mA low/high output calibration directly. |
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Actuator stops before reaching the fully open or fully closed valve seat |
This may be caused by a foreign object jammed inside the valve body, or the travel limit parameters may need to be recalibrated. |
We suggest checking the valve cavity for any physical obstructions first. Once the obstruction has been cleared, we will perform a non-invasive travel limit adjustment to restore the precise open and closed limit parameters. |
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The motor stops during operation or triggers internal current protection. |
The supply voltage is below the rated value, or the valve stem friction is higher than the actuator’s thrust output. |
Our HUBL series linear electric actuator is designed to deliver the rated thrust (3 kN to 30 kN) under stable power supply conditions. We suggest checking the stability of the supply voltage (24 VDC or 220 VAC) and ensuring the valve stem packing nut is not overtightened. |
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Moisture or condensation found inside the electronic enclosure |
The cable gland was not fully tightened, or power was not supplied to the internal heater in the high-humidity environment. |
Our aluminum enclosures are manufactured in strict accordance with the IP65 protection rating standard. We need to securely tighten all cable glands during installation; if the HUBL series linear electric valve actuator is deployed in extremely cold or tropical environments, be sure to power the optional internal heater (Option H) to keep the electronic components completely dry. |
To guarantee maximum uptime and preserve long-term reliability for the automated valve, we advise incorporating these 6 routine checks into the standard plant maintenance schedules:
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Model |
Thrust KN |
Speed mm/S |
Motor W |
Stroke mm |
Insulation level |
Rated current (A) 24VDC |
Rated current (A) 220VAC |
Weight Kg |
Manual device |
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HUBL2 |
3 |
1 |
18 |
40 |
F |
1.2 |
0.3 |
8.6 |
Clutch handwheel |
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5 |
1 |
25 |
F |
3 |
0.33 |
8.6 |
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HUBL3 |
8 |
1.2 |
35 |
60 |
F |
3.5 |
0.33 |
14.35 |
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15 |
1.2 |
50 |
F |
4.2 |
0.45 |
14.35 |
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HUBL4 |
20 |
1.2 |
90 |
100 |
F |
8.5 |
0.95 |
23 |
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30 |
1.2 |
120 |
F |
10.5 |
1.1 |
23 |
Selecting the correct actuator size is critical to maintaining tight valve shut-off and avoiding premature damage to the stem packing or seat. Follow the “5-Step Selection Process” below to select the precisely mounted HUBL Series linear electric actuator model for the globe valve, control valve, or diaphragm valve:
To keep the valve closure reliable under the maximum differential pressure, the valve's total thrust(F) needs to be calculated first:
Required Thrust (F) = (Seating Force + Differential Pressure Force + Packing Friction) × Safety Factor
Hearken Flow suggests: Always apply a safety factor of 1.3 to 1.5 when calculating the operating valve thrust
Select the appropriate model specification based on the calculated thrust:
If Required Thrust (F) ≤ 3 kN or 5 kN → Select HUBL2 (available in 3 kN or 5 kN rated specifications)
If 5 kN < F ≤ 15 kN → Select HUBL3 (available in 8 kN or 15 kN rated specifications)
If 15 kN < F ≤ 30 kN → Select HUBL4 (available in 20 kN or 30 kN rated specifications)
Verify the maximum valve stem travel stroke is within the actuator’s total stroke, and check the bottom clearance when the valve is in the fully closed position:
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Actuator Model |
Maximum Linear Stroke |
Fully Closed Bottom Clearance |
Mount Valve Types |
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HUBL2 |
Up to 40 mm |
56 mm clearance from bottom |
Compact Globe Valves, Small Diaphragm Valves |
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HUBL3 |
Up to 60 mm |
116 mm clearance from bottom |
Medium Globe Valves, Industrial Control Valves |
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HUBL4 |
Up to 100 mm |
107 mm clearance from bottom |
Heavy-Duty Control Valves, High-Pressure Globe Valves |
Need non-standard stroke lengths or special travel speeds? Contact Our Engineers
Ensure the valve mounting bracket and stem connection threads according to our standard interface specifications:
HUBL2 Interface: Base Flange Ø80 mm (4-Ø12 through-holes) | Center Stem Thread: M8
HUBL3 Interface: Base Flange Ø105 mm (4-Ø12 through-holes) | Center Stem Thread: M16×1.5
HUBL4 Interface: Base Flange Ø170 mm (4-Ø18 through-holes) | Center Stem Thread: M20×1.5
OEM Customization Notes: If the valve stem thread or mounting bracket dimensions differ from our standard specifications, we can manufacture custom valve stem adapters, drive nuts, and mounting brackets directly in our factory.
Select the appropriate HUBL series linear electric actuator control board based on the PLC/DCS control architecture:
Control Signal Protocol (K):
Select M1 for standard 4–20 mA analog modulating control (equipped with an integrated OLED display that supports non-intrusive digital configuration without local physical switches) for DCS/PLC continuous process control valves.
Select M2 (0–5 V) or M3 (2–10 V) input/output signal (custom designs available upon request). For custom voltage modulating control in specialized building automation or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
Power Supply Voltage (V):
Select F (24 VDC) for low-voltage safety applications, solar systems, or mobile skid-mounted battery equipment.
Select E (110 VAC) for single-phase AC in North American or regional industrial power grids.
Select D (220 VAC) for standard single-phase AC in general industrial plant power grids.
Select H (380 VAC) for three-phase AC in heavy industrial infrastructure and high-power plant systems.
Standard industrial environments (-20°C to +55°C): Our IP65 anodized aluminum housing provides complete weatherproof protection.
Outdoor, freezing, or tropical high-humidity environments: Be sure to select Option H (built-in space heater). For damp or outdoor installation sites, we strongly suggest configuring the built-in heater to avoid internal condensation and protect the control board.
| Application | Valve Parameters | Selected HUBL Model Code | Selection Criteria |
| DN50 Industrial Control Valve | Required thrust: 11 kN Stroke: 45 mm Signal: 4-20mA Power: 220VAC |
HUBL3-15-M1-D |
15 kN thrust provides a safety factor of 1.361 compared to 11 kN. HUBL3 supports up to 60 mm stroke and an M16×1.5 stem thread. |
| Outdoor Water Treatment Diaphragm Valve | Required thrust: 3.5 kN Stroke: 25 mm Signal: 4-20mA Power: 24VDC |
HUBL2-5-M1-F-H |
5 kN rating handles the 3.5 kN requirement. Option H (Heater) is specified to avoid outdoor humidity condensation. |
| High-Pressure Chemical Globe Valve | Required thrust: 22 kN Stroke: 80 mm Signal: 4-20mA Power: 220VAC |
HUBL4-30-M1-D-H |
The 30 kN rated thrust ensures reliable shut-off under high-pressure differential conditions. The HUBL4 frame meets the 80 mm stroke requirement. |
Below are the most critical technical and commercial inquiries we have received from valve original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), distributors, and process engineers. If your project involves specific parameters not covered here, we would be happy to check your valve specifications directly.
Q1: How is the HUBL series linear electric actuator mounted on the yoke of a third-party globe valve or control valve?
A: The HUBL series produces standardized mounting flange interfaces (with diameters of Ø80, Ø105, and Ø170 mm) and center-stem through-hole threads (in sizes M8, M16×1.5, and M20×1.5). This allows you to mount our HUBL series actuators directly onto standard valve yokes without additional adapters. If your valve has non-standard mounting dimensions, Hearken Flow can custom-manufacture stem drive nuts, adapters, and mounting brackets in-house to ensure perfect mechanical alignment.
Q2: What does “non-intrusive calibration” mean? How does it benefit commissioning?
A: “Non-intrusive” means that you can use the external OLED digital display and buttons to calibrate switch travel limits, adjust the 4–20 mA signal feedback, and set deadband parameters without opening the enclosure. This not only speeds up setup but also maintains the factory-certified IP65-rated moisture- and dust-proof seal, thereby avoiding the risk of internal circuitry contamination during installation.
Q3: How do manual operation and the battery wake-up work during the power outage?
A: During the power outage, our HUBL series linear electric actuator's absolute encoder feedback system continues to operate normally. For manual operation, you only need to press and hold the “Wake-Up” button on the panel, and the built-in backup battery will immediately power the OLED display; as you turn the pull-out clutch handwheel, the display will show the valve’s stroke position in real time. It can keep zero drift in the stroke signal and avoid the time-consuming recalibration once power is restored.
Q4: How do we resolve valve "hunting" or oscillation caused by high packing friction?
A: Valve hunting usually occurs when the actuator's response deadband is too narrow for high-friction valve stems or packing. With the HUBL series linear electric actuator, you can access the OLED setup menu without opening the cover and adjust the digital deadband setting from 1.0% up to 1.5%. Widening the deadband stabilizes control sensitivity, avoids motor continuous hunting, and protects the valve seat from premature wear.
Q5: Can HUBL linear electric actuators be installed in extremely cold outdoor environments or tropical high-humidity environments?
A: Yes. Our heavy-duty aluminum enclosure is anodized and polyester powder-coated, providing IP65 protection, and can operate normally within a temperature range of -20°C to +55°C. For high-humidity or extremely cold environments, we strongly suggest selecting Option X (Internal Space Heater). The heater can keep internal drive electronics completely dry, avoiding moisture condensation and electrical short circuits.
Q6: Why does Hearken Flow HUBL series linear electric valve actuator use Brushless DC (BLDC) motors instead of traditional brushed motors?
A: Brushless DC motors avoid mechanical carbon brush wear, which is the leading cause of motor failure in industrial actuators. Our BLDC motors can provide smooth, steady thrust (from 3 kN to 30 kN) while greatly less heat and consuming less power. This means longer lifespan, no carbon brush maintenance, and a corresponding reduction in warranty claims.
Q7: Is the HUBL series suitable for high-vibration applications such as pump stations or offshore skid-mounted equipment?
A: Yes. The HUBL series has been specifically designed and tested to withstand 10g of vibration along the X, Y, and Z axes (frequency range: 0.2–34 Hz, withstanding a 30-minute continuous vibration test). Its robust internal gear drive system and solid-state electronic components ensure stable operation even under intense mechanical vibration, thereby avoiding false alarms and mechanical drive loosening—common issues in high-vibration industrial facilities.
Q8: What happens to the actuator if the 4–20 mA remote control signal is lost or interrupted?
A: When a control signal failure or circuit break occurs, our smart control board immediately detects the anomaly. Based on your pre-set safety configuration during commissioning, the actuator can be set to “hold position” (maintain the last position) or perform a specified “fail-safe” stroke action; real-time signal alarm information will be displayed on the OLED panel to facilitate rapid troubleshooting at the same time.
Q9: What safety certifications, quality testing, and warranty policies does Hearken Flow provide for orders?
A: Every Hearken Flow HUBL series linear electric valve actuator is manufactured under the ISO 9001 quality management system, is certified to SIL 3 functional safety standards, fully CE compliant, and 100% load tested (cover thrust, stroke, deadband, and IP65 protection) before shipment. We provide an 18-month warranty on all HUBL actuators, so you can purchase with confidence for critical process control applications.
Q10: Does Hearken Flow offer OEM private labeling, custom RAL colors, and tailored mounting options?
A: Of Course. As a professional OEM/ODM HUBL series linear electric actuator manufacturer, we support our partners by offering custom RAL housing colors, private-label nameplates, custom product packaging, and custom-designed mounting brackets or stem adapters. All products with custom configurations undergo 100% testing before shipment to ensure seamless integration with your valve
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