Controlling processes with a positioner or proportional valve
Various types of process valves are used to control flow rates, gases and liquids, temperature, etc. In the classic case, the actuators – and thus indirectly the process valves – are controlled by means of a positioner. These use different methods to measure the position of the actuator or valve and control it to the position desired by the main controller. Festo offers the CMSH positioner for this purpose. Another control device is the I/P transducer, a current/pressure transducer. This is used primarily in linear systems – but only when the position of the valve plays a subordinate role for the safety-related consideration. Proportional valves such as the VPPM from Festo can take over the function of an I/P transducer. In doing so, they usually exceed the control quality and ease of use of the transducer.

Safety is paramount
Hydrogen is a colorless, volatile and non-toxic gas that is highly flammable and must be handled at high pressure. Numerous safety regulations must therefore be observed when setting up production and the necessary infrastructure. To get the green hydrogen produced to where it is to be used, it must be made transportable. This can be done, for example, by compressing it in a compressor station. The safety of a plant is also important in the event of malfunctions or faults. Festo's portfolio includes numerous products that are specially designed for use in potentially explosive atmospheres and are certified according to the IEC 61508 SIL standard, such as the VOFC and VOFD valves. The functional safety of electrolysers is therefore essential to making industrial processes safe, efficient and environmentally friendly. 

Customer-specific and ready to install
Festo also offers control cabinet solutions that meet the SIL standard. These protect components against environmental influences and foreign bodies. Regardless of whether pneumatic, electric or electro-pneumatic components are used, the end result is a fully designed control cabinet that centrally controls the actuators and sensors in the container. For applications in explosion-prone areas, the control cabinets can be planned, assembled and certified according to regional and international regulations.

Festo is a global player and an independent family-owned company with headquarters in Esslingen am Neckar, Germany. Festo has set standards in industrial automation technology and technical education ever since its establishment, thereby making a contribution to sustainable development of the environment, the economy and society. The company supplies pneumatic and electrical automation technology to 300,000 customers of factory and process automation in over 35 industries. Digitalization, AI and the LifeTech sector with medical technology and laboratory automation are becoming increasingly important. The products and services are available in 176 countries. With about 20,600 employees in over 250 branch offices in around 60 countries worldwide, Festo achieved a turnover of around €3.45 billion in 2024. More than 8% of this turnover is invested in research and development. In this learning company, 1.5 % of turnover is invested in basic and further training. Festo Didactic SE is a leading provider of technical education and training and offers its customers worldwide comprehensive digital and physical learning solutions in the industrial environment.