This standard describes hydraulic and pneumatic linear and quarter-turn actuators for operation of valves and slide gates in utility systems. Actuators produce a rotary torque or linear motion thrust to actuate a valve or slide gate in open–close, throttling, or modulating service. The standard defines the minimum requirements for hydraulic and pneumatic actuators, including sizing considerations, general design, materials, applications, painting and coatings, data to be furnished by manufacturer, performance testing and certification, inspection, packaging, shipping, handling, and storage.

Actuators described in this standard include linear actuators that produce a push–pull motion, and quarter-turn actuators that produce a rotary motion, such as the following:

a. Cylinder actuator with link and lever mechanism
b. Cylinder actuator with scotch yoke mechanism
c. Rack and pinion actuator
d. Vane actuator