Smart actuators
Guide to Controls (BG 83/2023) written by John Marrow and published by BSRIA in June 2023, defines an actuator as: ‘An electromechanical device which moves the position of a valve or damper in response to a control signal.’
It states in relation to smart actuators: ‘Many manufacturers have improved their products to include self-learning algorithms. For example, if an actuator is connected to a valve it can automatically set its stroke parameters by executing a self-learning program. The actuator is also intelligent enough to enable sensors to be connected to it and can be programmed either by Bluetooth or wireless devices. The actuator may also have additional functionality allowing it to perform preventative maintenance functions. Hence its setup and configuration is easier and quicker. These devices may also be connected to a central control system or BMS; however, they only require user intervention when an alarm is raised.’
--BSRIA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
ECA, JIB and JTL back Fabian Society call to invest in skills for a stronger built environment workforce.
Women's Contributions to the Built Environment.
Calls for the delayed Circular Economy Strategy
Over 50 leading businesses, trade associations and professional bodies, including CIAT, and UKGBC sign open letter.
The future workforce: culture change and skill
Under the spotlight at UK Construction Week London.
A landmark moment for postmodern heritage.
A safe energy transition – ECA launches a new Charter
Practical policy actions to speed up low carbon adoption while maintaining installation safety and competency.
Frank Duffy: Researcher and Practitioner
Reflections on achievements and relevance to the wider research and practice communities.
The 2026 Compliance Landscape: Fire doors
Why 'Business as Usual' is a Liability.
Cutting construction carbon footprint by caring for soil
Is construction neglecting one of the planet’s most powerful carbon stores and one of our greatest natural climate allies.
ARCHITECTURE: How's it progressing?
Archiblogger posing questions of a historical and contextual nature.
The roofscape of Hampstead Garden Suburb
Residents, architects and roofers need to understand detailing.
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch-up on the latest episodes.
Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026
Entries now open for this Electrical Contractors' Association award.
Traditional blue-grey slate from one of the oldest and largest UK slate quarries down in Cornwall.
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.