How to select a new Danfoss AMB 162/182 actuator?

Introduction

Danfoss actuators AMB 162/182 series are popular actuators for mixing and diverting valves in heating systems. Currently, Danfoss has already introduced new third generation of these actuators, replacing older models with newer designs. Older versions (the so-called second generation) of AMB 162/182 actuators are no longer produced - many of their catalog numbers have been withdrawn from the offer and replaced with new equivalents. In this article, we explain how to select a new Danfoss AMB 162 or AMB 182 actuator as a replacement for an older model that is unavailable. We provide a step-by-step overview of what to look for when selecting, and a breakdown of the old vs. new part numbers. In addition, we indicate the compatibility of the new actuators with valves (both Danfoss and other manufacturers) and give examples of the most popular models available on the market.

New generation of Danfoss AMB 162/182 actuators

Danfoss in 2021 introduced the third generation of electric rotary actuators AMB 162/182. The new models retain the general functionality of their predecessors, but have been upgraded in terms of parameters and equipment. All new actuators have a standard 90° rotation angle and are available in versions with torques of 5 Nm, 10 Nm and 15 Nm (according to the size of the valve). The speed of operation has also been improved - the available speed variants are 15, 30, 60, 120, 240 or 480 seconds per 90° (depending on the model). The range of available voltages and control signals remained wide: the new actuators come in versions powered by 230 V AC and 24 V (AC/DC), with control 2-point, 3-point or analog (0(2)-10 V / 0(4)-20 mA)â. This means that in terms of basic electrical parameters, the new generation covers the needs of most existing applications.

Withdrawal of older models: With the introduction of the new generation, Danfoss has withdrawn the older second-generation AMB 162/182 models from its portfolio. Their part numbers 082H00xx have been replaced by the new 082H02xx - third generation equivalents. For example, the former performance of AMB 162 5Nm 3-point 140s 24V with the number 082H0013 has been replaced by AMB 162 5Nm 3-point 120s 24V number 082H0213. These changes often include minor adjustments to the turnover time (e.g., 140s replaced by 120s) or to make the offering more consistent (one new execution replaces two old ones - see the comparison table below). So if your old actuator has a part number that you don't see in current listings, there's a good chance it matches the new third-generation number.

New features and functions: The third generation also introduces a number of design improvements. The actuators are equipped with lEDs signaling m.in. direction of rotation of the actuator and (in 2- and 3-point models) tripping of the built-in auxiliary switch. They also have an easy-to-read indicator of the current valve position and manual control mechanism - A knob/clutch that allows the valve to be manually repositioned when unlocked (without removing the actuator). Protection against motor damage in case of valve blockage is used - the actuator will not fail even if the stem is blocked. Analog models have been given the ability to change the speed via DIP switches, allowing you to adjust the rotation time (e.g., choosing between 60, 90 and 120 s) to suit your circuit requirements. All these improvements make the new AMB actuators more versatile, durable and user-friendly, ensuring quiet and reliable operation in the installation. In doing so, it is important that the method of mechanical assembly remained the same - Thus, the new actuator fits the same valve as the old one (possibly with the use of an appropriate adapter, about which more later).

Step-by-step selection of a replacement

When selecting a new actuator as a replacement for an old model, it is worth analyzing several key parameters. Here are step-by-step instructions to help make sure the replacement you choose is the right one:

1. Check the supply voltage: Determine what voltage the old actuator was powered by - was it a version of the 230 V AC, or 24 V (mostly 24 V AC for 3-point control or 24 V AC/DC for analog models). New AMB 162/182 actuators come in both power supply variants, so choose a replacement with the same voltage rating. E.g. if your previous actuator was 230-volt, choose the 230-volt equivalent; if it was 24-volt, choose 24-volt. Also, make sure you need a version suitable for DC (this mainly applies to 0-10 V analog models, which in the third generation operate on both 24 V AC and 24 V DC).

2. Specify the control signal: Identify how the old actuator was controlled. The available options are:

   • 2-point (ON/OFF) - The actuator opens or closes in response to power switching,

   • 3-point (floating) - The actuator is controlled by two signals (e.g., "open" and "close") and stops at intermediate positions when the signal is turned off,

   • analog (modulating) - the actuator sets the position in proportion to the analog signal (e.g. 0-10 V or 4-20 mA).
     The new AMB generation offers all these types of control - 2- and 3-point models and analog models. Choose a replacement with the same type of control signal as the previous one had. For example, if it was a 3-point actuator before, the new one should also be 3-point (Danfoss designations: "3p" in the name); if it was an analog model (designation "mod"), the new one must also be analog.

3. Adjust the torque (force): AMB 162/182 actuators are available in different force variants, adapted to the size and type of valve. AMB 162 are models with torque 5 Nm (designed for smaller mixing valves, usually DN15-50), while the AMB 182 are models with torque 10 Nm or 15 Nm (for larger valves, DN50 and up). Check what torque your old actuator had (this can often be read from the nameplate or documentation - e.g., "5 Nm" or "10 Nm"). Then select a new model with no less. Usually:

   • All the old AMB 162s had 5 Nm - their replacement will again be AMB 162 (5 Nm).

   • The old AMB 182 may have been 10 Nm or 15 Nm - the third generation also has 10 Nm and 15 Nm versions. Choose the one corresponding to your valve (e.g., for a DN80 valve rather 15 Nm). Remember, it is better to select a torque equal to or higher than that required by the valve, so that the actuator will turn the valve through its full range without problems.

4. Compare the turnover time (speed of operation): Different actuator variants have different turnaround times of a full 90°. The older second-generation models featured m.in. in versions ~70 s, ~140 s, ~280 s (per 90° of rotation). In the new generation, Danfoss has slightly modified these values - the typical times available are 60 s instead of 70 s, 120 s instead of 140 s, 240 s instead of 280 s etc., as well as very fast 15 s or slower 480 s on selected models. Therefore, when selecting a replacement, check what it was turnover time your old actuator and find the closest possible value in the new offering. For example, if the old model had a time of 140 s/90°, the new equivalent will have 120 s/90° (because 140 s is no longer produced). The difference is small and usually acceptable to the control system - an actuator with a slightly faster time (120 s instead of 140 s) should work properly. However, if time precision is very critical in your application, check with your vendor to make sure the difference will not be an issue. In the case of new-generation analog models, it is worth knowing that the rotation time can be switched within a certain range (e.g. 60/90/120 s) using DIP switches, which gives additional flexibility.

5. Auxiliary switch (AS) - do you need it?: Many actuators are offered in versions with built-in auxiliary switch (denoted by the letters AS - from English. Auxiliary Switch). Such an additional microswitch makes it possible, for example, to switch on a pump or other device when the actuator reaches the extreme position of the valve. If your old actuator had such a switch (or you need such a feature), choose a new model with the designation AS in the part number. The new generation AMB 162/182 also offers variants with an integrated auxiliary switch. For example, the old model 082H0014 (AMB 162 24V 3-point with AS) should be replaced by the new 082H0218 (AMB 162 24V 3-point with AS) - both have an additional auxiliary switch. If you do not need an additional switch, choose the standard model (without AS).

6. Valve type and mounting method: The next step is to make sure that the new actuator will fit mechanically to the valve on which it is to be installed. Danfoss actuators AMBs are primarily designed to work with Danfoss rotary mixing valves, such as the series of HRB, HRE, HFE (3- and 4-way mixing valves) - in these cases, the installation is direct, and the mounting parts are supplied with the actuator. If your actuator works with such a Danfoss valve (e.g. HRB3, HRE4, etc.), the new AMB 162/182 model should be able to be installed without a problem in place of the old one (using the same valve stem coupling fitting).

   However, if the actuator is installed on valve of another manufacturer - which happens because Danfoss offers dedicated adapters - you need to select or keep the appropriate mounting adapter. Third generation Danfoss uses the same connection kits (adapters) as before. Examples of popular adapters:

   • Danfoss 082H0250 - adapter for other brands of valves: fits m.in. for older valves from ESBE, Seltron, Somatherm, Hora, WIP, PAW, Acaso, BRV, IMIT, IMP, IVAR.

   • Danfoss 082H0253 - adapter for Honeywell V5442/V5433 series valves.

   • Danfoss 082H0254 - adapter for ESBE valves of the new type (VRG series) and Danfoss valves of the RVA type, which are no longer manufactured.

   • Danfoss 082H0255 - adapter for Danfoss valves series HRB, HRE (if for some reason it was not included).

     With the use of an appropriate adapter, it is possible to mount a new AMB actuator on a valve of another company, so that the replacement fulfills its role. So check if your old actuator does not use such an adapter (e.g., by the number on the connecting part) and make sure to keep or order the correct connection kit when replacing it.

7. Whether a spring return (safety function) is needed?: Some applications require the actuator to automatically return to a specific position (e.g., close the valve) in the event of a power outage - this is accomplished using return spring embedded in the actuator. Standard AMB 162/182 actuators do not have a return spring, meaning that in the event of a power failure, they will remain in their current position (they have no fail-safe function). If your old system was equipped with a spring-loaded actuator or you require such a safety feature, this should be taken into account when selecting a replacement. Danfoss in the AMB series did not provide for a model with a built-in spring, while it offers other series of actuators with a safety function - an example are the linear actuators of the AMV/AME series (used for plug valves), in which the designation of the SD/SU just means return spring down or up. For rotary (mixing) valves, there is no direct replacement for Danfoss with a spring - if you need to obtain a fallback position, consider using a UPS for the actuator or a special safety actuator of another brand, compatible with the valve in question. In most typical CO installations, however, this function is not required, so a standard AMB without a spring will be adequate (this is what is meant by the common statement "springless version" - an ordinary actuator, stopping in position when voltage is lost).

8. Select a new model and part number: With the above information - voltage, signal (2/3-point or analog), torque (5/10/15 Nm), approximate rotation time, possibly an auxiliary switch option - you can identify the correct replacement model. Danfoss provides datasheets where you can find the full designations of the new AMB 162/182 third-generation actuators with part numbers 082H02xx. For your convenience, in the next section we provide a comparison table of old and new numbers - find the number of your old actuator in it, and you will see the corresponding new replacement number.

Valve compatibility and installation requirements

As mentioned, aMB 162/182 actuators are designed for Danfoss rotary valves - mainly types HRB, HRE, HFE used in central heating systems. They are mounted directly on the valve stem using the supplied fitting and retaining ring. When replacing an old Danfoss actuator with a new one, the method of installation remains the same - just unscrew the bolt holding the old actuator, remove it from the valve, put the new actuator on the stem and tighten the bolt (or reposition the adapter, if used). Remember to put both devices (valve and actuator) in a known position (e.g., closed/open) before disassembly - this will facilitate calibration after installing the replacement.

If a valve from another manufacturer is used, it is necessary to use the right adapter. Fortunately, Danfoss provides a wide range of connection kits (listed above in step 6) that allow AMB actuators to be mounted on valves from companies such as ESBE, Honeywell, Centra, Meibes and others. If your old actuator was installed through such an adapter, you can reuse it with your new actuator (they are backward compatible). If in doubt about mechanical compatibility - consult your supplier or check Danfoss documentation for your adapter. A well-chosen replacement should work smoothly with the existing valve after installation, with no backlash or strain.

Table of replacements - old vs. new part numbers

Below is a summary of the discontinued part numbers of the old AMB 162/182 actuators (2nd generation) and the corresponding available new numbers (3rd generation). The table will help you select the right replacement based on the number of the old device or its description:

Legend: 3-point (3p) - 3-point (relay) control; AS - version with built-in auxiliary switch (Auxiliary Switch); mod - version with analog control (modulating). It is worth noting that in some cases one new model replaced two different old ones - For example, 082H0241 is a replacement for 082H0022 and 082H0023, as the new analog AMB 182 can handle different times by adjusting the. If your old number does not appear in the table, contact your supplier - the above covers the main popular replacements from Danfoss documentation.

Summary

The selection of a replacement AMB 162/182 actuator comes down to matching the electrical and mechanical parameters of the new device with the old one. Using the above guidelines and the table of replacements, you can successfully replace the withdrawn model with a new equivalent, while maintaining the full functionality of the control system. If in doubt, we recommend contacting a technical advisor or Danfoss support - a correctly selected actuator will ensure trouble-free operation of the installation for years to come. With the third generation of AMB 162/182, we will gain the benefits of modern solutions (LED, easier operation, greater reliability), which is an added value when upgrading the system.â