Control systems > Positioners, controllers and sensors
Spirax Sarco SP500 Smart Positioner
The Spirax Sarco SP500 is an enhanced loop-powered electro-pneumatic smart positioner for linear and rotary pneumatic valves. Building on the SP400 platform, it adds optional HART communication, diagnostic data logging, retransmission capability and a 24V power board, while retaining the same 4-20 mA input, Hall effect non-contact feedback and piezo valve technology.
Quick facts
SP500 belongs in the Spirax Sarco positioners, controllers and sensors range. It is the enhanced successor to the SP400 platform, designed for pneumatic control valve applications that require more advanced diagnostics, optional digital communication and greater configuration flexibility without moving to the SP7 family.
Compared with SP400, the SP500 adds optional HART communication, diagnostic data logging for valve travel and operating hours, a retransmission and software switch option, and a 24V power board for applications that need external power beyond the loop supply.
The SP400 remains the straightforward choice for standard positioning duties where 4-20 mA input, digital setup and reliable feedback are the main requirements. The SP500 extends that foundation for users who also need:
Both models share the same Hall effect non-contact feedback sensor, piezo valve technology and automatic commissioning routines, so the changeover from SP400 to SP500 does not require a different mounting or wiring approach in most cases.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Input signal | 4-20 mA |
| Communication | Optional HART |
| Position feedback | Hall effect non-contact |
| Valve technology | Piezo |
| Supply pressure | 1.4 to 7.0 bar |
| Linear stroke range | 10 to 100 mm |
| Rotary range | 5 degrees to 120 degrees |
| Characteristics | Linear, equal percentage, quick opening |
| Operating temperature | -10 degrees C to +80 degrees C |
| Enclosure rating | IP65 |
| Weight | 2.2 kg |
| Air connection | 1/4 inch NPT |
| Cable gland | M20 |
| Actions | Direct and reverse |
| Valve compatibility | 2-way and 3-way valves |
| Special functions | Tight shut-off, split range |
| Compatible actuator series | PN1000, PN2000, PNS3000, PNS4000, PN9000 |
| Auto commissioning | Yes |
| Diagnostic data logging | Valve travel and operating hours |
Optional extras include HART communication, retransmission and software switch, and a 24V power board.
Before specifying the Spirax Sarco SP500, confirm the actuator type and series, the required stroke or rotation range, supply pressure availability, and whether HART communication or the 24V power board is needed for the application. Also confirm enclosure environment, air connection thread, cable gland size and whether the positioner is being ordered alone or as part of a complete control valve package.
The SP500 supports direct and reverse action, tight shut-off and split range configurations, making it suitable for 2-way and 3-way valve duties across a broad range of process conditions.
The SP500 supports automatic commissioning through its LCD menu and push-button interface.
The Spirax Sarco SX80 is a 1/16 DIN panel mount process controller offering universal input for RTD and thermocouple signals, universal output with VMD 3-point, 4-20 mA analog, relay and logic, PID auto-tuning, 3 setpoints and a built-in 18 VDC transmitter power supply.
Spirax Sarco SP7-10, SP7-11 and SP7-12 smart positioners control pneumatic linear or rotary actuators and support 4-20 mA, HART, PROFIBUS PA or Foundation Fieldbus communication routes.
The Spirax Sarco SP400 is a loop-powered electro-pneumatic valve positioner for linear and 90 degree rotary pneumatic valves. It uses a 4-20 mA input signal, non-contact valve position feedback and automatic air output correction to help the valve reach and hold the demanded position.
The Spirax Sarco EP500 is a standard electro-pneumatic positioner for linear and rotary pneumatic control valves. It uses a 4-20 mA input signal with split-range capability, integral pressure gauges, central or offset mounting and a quick-fit electrical connection cap to deliver reliable position feedback correction without the communication and diagnostic features of the SP400 and SP500 smart positioners.
| Document | Reference | Language | Download |
|---|---|---|---|
| SP500 Electropneumatic Smart Positioner | IM-P343-35-US | English | Download |
SP500 selection usually sits inside a pneumatic valve package decision that also includes the actuator, valve body, instrument air and commissioning requirements.
Return to positioners, controllers and sensors when you need to compare SP500 with SP400, SP7, EP500, EP6 and other feedback products.
Review pneumatic actuators when the next step is confirming linear or rotary motion, mounting interface and direction of action.
Use control valve pages when the project needs the valve body, actuator, positioner and air preparation package considered together.
