Industrial process control systems - Methods of evaluating the performance of valve positioners with pneumatic outputs - Part 2: Test Methods for intelligent positioners mounted on an actuator valve assembly
IEC 61514-2:2026 specifies design reviews and tests intended to measure and determine the static and dynamic performance, the degree of intelligence and the communication capabilities of single-acting or double-acting intelligent valve positioners. The tests can be applied to positioners which receive standard analogue electrical input signals (as specified in IEC 60381-1 or IEC 60381-2) and/or digital signals via a data communication link (for example Fieldbus) and have a pneumatic output. An intelligent valve positioner as defined in Clause 3 is an instrument that uses for performing its functions digital techniques for data processing, decision-making and bi-directional communication. It can be equipped with additional sensors and additional functionality supporting the main function.
The performance testing of an intelligent valve positioner is conducted with the positioner mounted on and connected to the actuator/valve assembly the positioner is used on. The specific characteristic parameters of the actuator/valve combination such as size, stroke, friction, type of packing, spring package and supply pressure for the pneumatic part has significant impact on the performance of a positioner.
The methods of evaluation given in this document are intended for testing laboratories to verify equipment performance specifications. The manufacturers of intelligent positioners are urged to apply this document at an early stage of development.
This document is intended to provide guidance for designing evaluations of intelligent valve positioners by providing:
- a checklist for reviewing their hardware and software design in a structured way;
- test methods for measuring and qualifying their performance under various environmental and operational conditions;
- methods for reporting the data obtained.
When a full evaluation, in accordance with this document, is not required or possible, the tests which are required are performed and the results reported in accordance with the relevant clauses of this document. In such cases, the test report will state that it does not cover the full number of tests specified herein. Furthermore, the items omitted are mentioned, to give the reader of the report a clear overview.
This document is also applicable for non-intelligent microprocessor-based valve positioners without means for bi-directional communication. In that case an evaluation will be reduced to a limited programme of performance testing and a review of the construction.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2013. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) in 5.5.2, the standard for the measurements of influence quantities has been changed to IEC 62828-1:—[1];
b) all references to IEC 61514 have been updated to IEC 61514:—[2];
c) the aspect of cyber-security has been added in 4.2.7 and 4.2.9.
[1] Under preparation. Stage at the time of publication: IEC/CFDIS 62828-1:2026.
[2] Under preparation. Stage at the time of publication: IEC/CFDIS 61514:2026.
