OpenAir Damper Actuators

All motors in the OpenAir line have stall protection to improve reliability, to reduce power consumption, and prevent motor burn-out in the event a damper seizes.
In modulating damper actuators, 20 seconds after the torque limit has been reached, the motor switches off. Every 24 hours a new start begins checking to see if the condition still exists.
The 3-position floating, non-spring return damper actuators do not have a timer. Instead, they use a magnetic clutch to limit torque. These floating actuators are rated for 100% duty cycle.

Question 03

Do the GLB & GDE models have a spring return option?

No, the GMA model is the low torque spring return option.

Question 04

Are the OpenAir actuators rated for use on Smoke Damper applications?

No, the OpenAir actuators are neither rated for use on Smoke Dampers, nor tested for high temperatures. This product line was not designed to address the fire and smoke market. However, the GGD damper actuator, especially made for Smoke Damper applications, is now available through damper manufacturers.

Question 05

Is the fire/smoke rated damper actuator available?

Siemens Building Technologies GGD Series Fire/Smoke Damper actuators are currently available. However, note that the actuator is rated as a package (UL 555S listed), which includes the damper, damper actuator, and a linkage kit for fire and smoke applications. They are intended for use on UL listed Smoke Dampers or combination Fire/Smoke Dampers. The damper manufacturer is the one who obtains the rating for this package.

Question 06

Can the GDE model handle continuous adjustment in a VAV application?

Yes, It was designed for a minimum of 1.5 million repositions and rated for 100% duty cycle. Note, an improperly tuned loop will shorten actuator life.

Question 07

What type of motors are used in the OpenAir product line?

The OpenAir GBB, GCA, GIB and GMA models all have a brushless DC motors.

The OpenAir GDE, GEB and GLB models have a synchronous (brushless) motor with a magnetic clutch.

Question 08

Are any of the OpenAir damper actuators made in the USA? If so, which ones?

All the OpenAir models are assembled and tested in the USA at the Buffalo Grove, IL factory.

Question 09

What is the proper installation procedure for the GDE/GLB Actuators?

First, fasten the actuator set screw to the damper shaft with a tightening torque of 60 lb-in. To verify correct tightening torque, use a torque wrench with a 4 mm hex key adapter.

Insert mounting bracket pin in bottom slot of actuator. Verify that installed actuators have the mounting bracket pin placed in the center of the bottom slot of the actuator. (For the diagram, see Installation Instruction 129-367.)
Do not use the two top holes in the actuator for mounting directly to a VAV box. If the actuator is mounted with screws in the two top holes, remove these screws for proper operation of the actuator. The two top holes in the actuator are for accessory kits only, such as the ASK71.6U.

Question 10

On the GDE and GLB models damper actuators, are there any problems with centering the damper shaft properly, given that there is only one set screw?

No. The actuator was designed and life tested for operation with shaft sizes up to 5/8-inch. When the set screw is tightened, the damper shaft is securely held by the set screw on one side, and the "V" notch in the output segment on the opposite side.

Question 11

If no centering inserts are required for the GDE actuator, why was the ASK78.3U developed?

The ASK78.3U is a shaft adapter (not centering element) designed for use with 3/8-inch shafts and GLB actuators to ensure the screw remains tightened to the damper shaft when the actuator produces 88 lb-in of torque. The insert is included with all GLB and GDE actuators and is recommended for use with all 3/8-inch damper shafts.

Question 12

If I lose the position indicator, can I reorder it separately?

Yes. The part number for GLB and GDE model actuators is 985051P10(10-pack) and for GBB, GCA, GIB and GKB models, the part number is 985-003. (10-pack).

Question 13

Can I mechanically link any of the damper actuators together to increase the torque?

Yes, For the GBB, GCA and GIB modulating models only use the Tandem Mounting Bracket part number ASK73.2U
For the GBB, GCA and GIB 2-position or 3-position floating control use the Tandem Mounting Bracket part number ASK73.1.

Question 14

What other accessories and mounting kits are available?

The Siemens H.V.A.C. Products Catalog part number 144-001 lists the available kits and accessories at the end of the Damper Actuator section.

Question 15

Is a cross-reference available for the OpenAir actuators?

Yes, see the Siemens H.V.A.C. Products Catalog (P/N 144-001) link to Cross ref

Question 16

What accessories are available to adapt to 1/2-inch conduit?

For the GBB, GCA and GIB models use part number 985-036P25 this is a 1/2-inch conduit adapter (25 pack)

For the GDE & GLB models use part number ASK76.1U

Question 17

I am controlling with a 2 to 10 Volt control signal. What do I do?

Use the GMA15x and GCA 15x and 2-10 vdc actuators with signal inversion switches, or signal adjustable models which are available with adjustable start and span. Order models Gxx163 or Gxx164.

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Question 01

What is the break-away torque for all the actuators in the OpenAir line?

Question 02

What kind of stall protection do these actuators have?