PDV Fire Safety Systems
- Home /
- PDV Fire Safety Systems
RIFT Actuators
Fire Safety Systems & PDV Actuation
Fire safety systems demand dependable equipment, rapid response and carefully controlled operation. RIFT Actuators provides electric valve actuation solutions for fire suppression systems and Priority Demand Valves (PDVs), helping fire system specialists automate critical valves while maintaining precise and reliable control.
RIFT’s compact RAS and RAM SMART Actuators provide configurable electric actuation for suitable fire safety applications, with options including failsafe operation, On/Off control, modulation, speed control and Wiggle functionality depending on the actuator configuration.
With low-power technology, compact designs and local and remote control capabilities, RIFT provides a flexible approach to valve automation where space, power consumption and reliable operation are important considerations.
RIFT Actuators
Priority Demand Valve Actuation
A Priority Demand Valve (PDV) is used within certain fire sprinkler arrangements to prioritise the water supply available to the fire protection system. RIFT has developed actuator solutions for PDV applications, providing automated valve operation in response to the requirements of the fire safety system.
In a fire event, the ability to control the relevant valve quickly and reliably can be critical. RIFT’s electric actuation technology provides a controlled method of operating the valve while allowing the actuator to be integrated with the wider building management and fire safety systems where appropriate.
RIFT has already supported a PDV application across two residential tower blocks, one 26 storeys and one 24 storeys. The project required a PDV on each floor to independently prioritise the sprinkler supply, while also addressing restricted space and low-power requirements. The solution used RIFT’s RAS actuator range and was integrated with the building management and fire safety systems.
RIFT Actuators
Why Electric Actuation for Fire Safety?
Fire protection infrastructure can contain valves that need to operate as part of a coordinated system.
Electric actuation can provide a controlled interface between the valve and the wider fire safety or building management system.
For suitable applications, RIFT actuators can provide:
- Automated valve operation
- Configurable failsafe functionality
- Local controls
- Precise positioning
- On/Off control
- Modulating control
- Adjustable speed
- Low-power operation
- Compact installation
- SMART functionality
The precise actuator configuration should always be selected according to the valve, required torque, control philosophy and applicable fire-system requirements.
RIFT Actuators
RIFT RAS SMART Actuator
The RAS SMART Electric Actuator is a compact, low-torque actuator designed for applications where space, efficiency and reliable valve control are important.
The RAS provides 10–30Nm of torque, is IP67 rated and operates from 12–30VDC. It supports On/Off or modulating control, with optional features including 4-20mA modulation, failsafe, Wiggle and speed control. Fire suppression is specifically listed among its applications.
For PDV applications, its compact form factor can be particularly useful where multiple valves need to be installed within confined service areas.
RAS SMART Features
10–30Nm Torque
Suitable for appropriately sized valves and PDV applications where the required operating torque falls within the actuator’s capabilities.
IP67 Protection
Provides protection suitable for demanding installation environments.
12–30VDC
Low-voltage operation makes the RAS suitable for applications where DC power is preferred or required.
Failsafe Option
Available failsafe functionality can provide a predetermined actuator response for suitable applications.
SMART Technology
Bluetooth connectivity allows configuration and commissioning using compatible Android devices.
Wiggle Function
Can periodically exercise the connected valve to help reduce the risk of sticking and build-up where appropriate.
Local Control
Provides a practical method of commissioning and local intervention.
RIFT RAM SMART Actuator
Higher Torque for Demanding Fire Safety Applications
Where a larger valve requires greater operating torque, the RAM SMART Electric Actuator provides a higher-capacity alternative.
The RAM provides 40–100Nm of torque, with an IP67 enclosure and operating voltage options of 12–30VDC and 80–300VAC. It supports On/Off and modulating control, with optional 4-20mA modulation, failsafe, Wiggle and speed control. Fire suppression is also listed as a RAM application.
The RAM is designed for demanding applications where additional torque capacity and configuration flexibility are required.
RAM SMART Features
40–100Nm Torque
Provides a higher torque range for appropriately sized valves.
IP67 Protection
Designed for reliable operation in demanding environments.
Multiple Power Options
Available with both low-voltage DC and higher-voltage AC configurations.
Failsafe
Can be configured with failsafe functionality for suitable applications.
Modulation
Supports modulating control where required by the application.
Speed Control
Allows actuator movement characteristics to be configured for suitable installations.
Wiggle
Helps exercise the connected valve periodically to support reliable operation.
SMART Commissioning
Configuration and commissioning can be supported through RIFT’s SMART technology.
PDV Applications
A Compact Solution for Multi-Level Buildings
PDVs can be particularly relevant in large residential and commercial developments where fire sprinkler infrastructure needs to be integrated throughout the building.
RIFT’s previous PDV project demonstrates how electric actuation can be applied where numerous valves need to be installed while managing space and power requirements.
In the documented project, RIFT worked alongside a fire safety partner to implement RAS actuator technology across two residential tower blocks. The solution integrated with the building management and fire safety systems and received direct RIFT support during commissioning.
This demonstrates an important advantage of working directly with an actuator manufacturer: the actuator can be considered as part of the wider installation rather than simply supplied as an isolated component.
Designed for Integration
Connect the Actuator to the Wider System
Fire safety installations rarely operate as standalone mechanical systems.
The actuator may need to interact with other equipment within the building’s fire protection and management architecture.
RIFT actuators can provide configurable control options to suit the application, with integration requirements determined by the system design.
Depending on actuator and configuration, options can include:
- On/Off control
- Modulating control
- Failsafe operation
- Local control
- 4-20mA modulation
- Speed control
- Position control
- SMART configuration
This allows engineers and fire system specialists to select an actuator configuration based on the requirements of the complete installation.
Low-Power Operation
Efficiency Matters in Fire Safety Infrastructure
Fire protection equipment may remain inactive for long periods before being required to operate.
That makes efficient standby and operating characteristics important considerations when designing systems with multiple electrically actuated valves.
RIFT’s technology has been developed around efficient electric actuation, with the RAS operating from 12–30VDC and the RAM offering both 12–30VDC and 80–300VAC configurations.
For installations containing multiple actuators, engineers can therefore consider the power requirements of the complete system when selecting the appropriate configuration.
Failsafe Actuation
A Key Consideration for Critical Applications
Fire safety applications can require equipment to respond appropriately to defined fault or power-loss conditions.
RIFT provides failsafe functionality as an available option on the RAS and RAM ranges, allowing the actuator’s behaviour to be configured for suitable applications.
The exact failsafe arrangement should be determined by the fire protection system design, valve requirements and applicable standards.
RIFT therefore works with the system designer and fire safety specialist to ensure the actuator configuration is appropriate for the application.
SMART Technology
Intelligent Configuration in a Compact Actuator
RIFT SMART technology brings additional flexibility to electric valve actuation.
Compatible RIFT actuators can be configured and commissioned using Bluetooth connectivity and a compatible Android device, reducing the need for complicated configuration equipment during installation.
The RAM also includes built-in touchpads to simplify setup and calibration.
For contractors and engineers working across multiple installations, this provides a practical way to configure actuator settings during commissioning.
Wiggle Function
Helping Maintain Valve Movement
Fire protection valves can remain in a fixed position for extended periods.
RIFT’s Wiggle Function allows the actuator to periodically move the valve through a predetermined angle.
This can help reduce the risk of valve seizure and build-up around the valve seat, supporting reliable mechanical movement when the valve is required.
The function is configurable and should be assessed against the requirements of the specific fire protection system and valve.
RIFT identifies Wiggle as one of its SMART actuator features and describes it as a function designed to help prevent valve seizure and foreign-body build-up.
Local Control & Manual Intervention
Practical Installation and Maintenance
Automation does not remove the need for engineers to access equipment during installation, commissioning and maintenance.
RIFT actuators provide local control options, while the RAS has an attachable handwheel and local controls and the RAM provides local controls.
This gives engineers a practical route to local operation when required, subject to the system design and safety procedures.
Choosing Between RAS & RAM
Match the Actuator to the Valve
The correct actuator should never be selected on torque alone.
Valve type, operating torque, safety factor, operating environment, power supply, control requirements and the overall fire system design should all be considered.
RAS SMART
10–30Nm
A compact solution for suitably sized PDV and fire suppression valves where lower torque requirements apply.
RAM SMART
40–100Nm
A higher-torque option for larger or more demanding valve applications.
The RIFT team can help assess the application and identify the appropriate actuator and configuration.
More Than PDVs
Electric Actuation Across Fire Safety Systems
The potential application of RIFT technology extends beyond Priority Demand Valves.
Electric actuation can be considered for suitable fire suppression and fire protection applications where automated valve operation is required.
Potential applications include:
- Sprinkler systems
- Fire suppression systems
- PDVs
- Fire hydrant systems
- Water supply control
- Deluge applications
- Commercial buildings
- Residential developments
- Industrial facilities
The suitability of any actuator for a particular fire safety application must be assessed as part of the complete system design.
RIFT’s website identifies fire suppression as an application for both the RAS and RAM SMART actuator ranges.
A Proven Application in High-Rise Residential Buildings
RIFT RAS & PDV Case Study
RIFT’s PDV project involved two residential tower blocks of 26 and 24 floors.
The installation required a PDV on each floor to allow independent prioritisation of the sprinkler water supply. The project presented challenges around restricted infrastructure space and the requirement for low power consumption.
Working with its fire safety partner, RIFT supplied an actuator solution based on the RAS range which integrated with the building management and fire safety systems. RIFT also provided direct support during commissioning.
This application demonstrates how compact electric actuation can be incorporated into complex, multi-level fire protection infrastructure.
Why Choose RIFT?
Intelligent Actuation for Critical Fire Safety Applications
RIFT brings together British engineering, electric actuation expertise and configurable SMART technology to provide solutions for demanding valve automation applications.
Compact Solutions
The RAS provides a compact actuator option where installation space is restricted.
Higher Torque Capability
The RAM extends the available torque range for larger valves and more demanding applications.
Low-Voltage Options
Both ranges offer low-voltage DC configurations, supporting applications where DC power is preferred.
Configurable Failsafe
Available failsafe functionality provides additional flexibility for critical applications.
SMART Commissioning
Bluetooth-enabled configuration provides a practical approach to setup and commissioning.
Wiggle Function
Periodic valve movement can help maintain reliable operation where suitable.
Technical Support
RIFT works with customers, contractors and system partners to support actuator selection, application design and commissioning.
Fire Safety Starts With the Right Actuation
When an automated valve forms part of a fire protection system, the actuator needs to be considered as part of the complete installation.
RIFT provides RAS and RAM SMART electric actuators for suitable fire suppression and PDV applications, giving system designers access to compact, configurable and energy-conscious actuation technology.
From individual PDVs to complex multi-level developments, RIFT can work with fire safety specialists to understand the valve, torque, power and control requirements and identify an appropriate actuator solution.
