Throttle Systems
Vital Link produces throttle systems specifically designed for both Jet Engine and Turbo-shaft engines. The Throttle systems utilise a position demand input from either a manual lever or potentiometer, or via software control mechanisms. The manual input devices are housed within the Vital Link Quadrant and are designed to accommodate up to 2 levers, and a number of rotary potentiometers. In addition, the quadrant may come fitted with an emergency stop push-button option, for integration into the facility emergency stop circuit, and a number of physical pushbuttons if required.
Throttle Quadrant
The throttle input demand position is then translated via a real time PLC controller to operate either a stepper motor or an electrical signal to provide the required signal or motion on the engine.
When operating a rotational device, Vital Link utilises high accuracy encoders mounted on the stepper motors in order to ensure positional accuracies of < 0.1°, with a max travel time of < 1 Second from initial movement of the input lever, to the final stop position of the stepper motor. Stepper motor assemblies can be specified with either ATEX or non-ATEX components.
ATEX Rated Stepper Motor Assembly
In automatic operation the Input levers are by-passed allowing the Vital Link Auto Test software to control the engine in accordance with the engine test specification. The FADAS™ continually monitors Engine safety parameters and is able to command the throttle to return to idle, or cut-off if necessary, however in all cases, the operator is able to regain control of the throttle by moving the physical input lever.
Throttle Auto Test Panel