5 top benefits of valve positioners for control valves Not all applications require valve positioners. But in many applications, valve positioners offer advantages, especially in systems where fluctuations can be disastrous for productivity or quality. 1.More accurate control. Since valve positioners know the valve’s exact position, they provide more precise control than can be achieved by an actuator on its own. In addition, positioners improve accuracy in the lower part of the valve stroke, where errors are more common. 2.Faster control. Positioners help control valves respond faster to changes in the process variable, minimizing the amount of time the system is operating above or below the setpoint. 3.Consistent valve position, even with varying pressures. Varying differential pressure across the valve can indicate instability in the control loop. A positioner is one solution to help stabilize valve position. 4.More flexible configurations and functions. A positioner allows you to put distance between the controller and the control valve, as well as to use diaphragm or piston-controlled actuators. You can also switch between direct and reverse control action or change the flow characteristics when necessary. You can even use one controller for two valves (i.e., split ranging). 5.Minimal effects of friction, which causes hysteresis and deadband. Friction in the valve stem packing contributes to both hysteresis and deadband, which reduce productivity. These aren’t the only benefits of positioners — the value you can gain from them depends on your application and the configuration of your system.