Method and apparatus for measuring the axial load on a valve stem.

摘要

Disclosed is a method and apparatus for measuring and monitoring the axial load or thrust on the valve stem (11) of an air operated valve assembly (1). The top end of the valve stem (11) is connected to the bottom end of the valve actuator drive shaft (4) by a marriage block connector member (14) having a plurality of strain gages (23) capable of generating an electrical signal representative of the axial load or thrust on the valve stem (11). The marriage block connector member (14) is also provided with a gage (27) capable of generating an electrical signal representative of the axial position of the valve stem (11). The apparatus and methods disclosed are used for valve diagnostic testing from a remote location or for a valve control system.