Kinitics Automation Innovations: A New Globe Valve Actuator Using Shape Memory Alloy 

Kinitics Automation, based in Vancouver, BC, has successfully developed and commercialized the KVA38 actuator, a spring-loaded electric valve actuator, designed to replace methane-venting pneumatic devices at production well sites. Kinitics’ spring-loaded electric actuators, based on shape memory alloy technology, connect to AC or DC power sources, require minimal infrastructure and maintenance, and deliver exceptional valve control. 

Supported by CRIN, NGIF Industry Grants, ERA, and NRC-IRAP, the technology advanced from TRL 6 to 9 and overcame technical hurdles such as scaling up stroke length and force, expanding temperature range, and integrating multiple power supply options. The actuator's demonstration and evaluation involved six commercial samples, a test lab, and deployment to three facilities, resulting in the publication of seven articles in technical journals.  

Dean Pick, President of Kinitics Automation, said highlights of the development project included industry engagement, getting the product certified, and live trials.  

“Actual demonstration at a live site was really valuable for a whole variety of reasons,” he said. “Proven-in-use provides important product validation that helps build confidence in the marketplace, and also generates good case studies, stories, and evidence that this is a very viable, very good alternative to what industry is currently doing with their methane venting pneumatics.” 

Next steps for Kinitics include expanding market adoption and building out its catalogue of industrial process control equipment. 

Kinitics Automation has entered into partnership with CVS Controls to distribute the KVA38 actuator in Western Canada, enhancing access to this zero-emission process control technology. This technology is expected to significantly reduce CO2e emissions annually. 

“Our partnership with CVS Controls Ltd. is a significant step in making the KVA38 more widely available,” said Pick. 

The electric valve actuator was developed as a direct replacement for methane-venting pneumatic devices currently used at production well sites in Western Canada. Methane-venting pneumatics deployed at production well sites are recognized as a major contributor to the Canadian gas industry’s greenhouse gas emissions.