---
title: How to improve the performance of your portable valve actuator?
description: Once you have built a portable valve actuator to match your needs, you might want to consider what else could improve its performance.
image: http://blog.modec.fr/hubfs/vanne_3.jpg
---
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[PVA Options](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/tag/pva-options)
# How to improve the performance of your portable valve actuator?
17 December 2016
[PVA Options](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/tag/pva-options)
Once you have built a [portable actuator](https://www.modec.fr/our-solutions/portable-valve-actuators/?lang=en) to match your needs, you might want to consider what else could improve its performance.
At modec, we have already given it some thought…
## Torque retention system
When using a portable actuator to turn a very strong valve or heavy valve, [there is a danger that the operator does not have sufficient strength](https://blog.modec.fr/en/minimising-the-risk-of-strain-injuries-and-accidents-in-the-workplace?hsLang=en-us) to hold the tool in position. For this situation, [Modec has developed a range of torque retention systems](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/why-you-should-always-use-a-torque-retention-system-with-a-portable-valve-actuator?hsLang=en-us) that effectively take the strain in place of the operator and keep the actuator steady.
One system consists of a chain attached to the actuator at one end and to a robust, fixed point at the other end, such as a wall or a post. Another system is a four-legged stand, positioned above ground, which stabilises the portable actuator while turning valves at buried underground.
If you need to restrain the left and right turn during the manoeuvre, the two-legged system holds the actuator steady in each direction.
[](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/1845083/93b2bd1d-f12f-4054-b5ef-57c9f30e41c0)
## Accessories
Because we like to think of everything that could [make your portable actuator experience even better](https://blog.modec.fr/en/3-reasons-to-use-portable-pneumatic-actuators-for-drinking-water-system-operations?hsLang=en-us), modec has a range of finishing touches. These include, among others;
- A protective, [transportable storage case](https://www.modec.fr/my-product/transport-cases/?lang=en) because it is, after all, a portable actuator and you want to keep it in mint condition!
- A [torque limiter](https://www.modec.fr/my-product/torque-limiter/?lang=en) – install this device to ensure the actuator stops before closing a valve too tight, or before potentially breaking a valve that is difficult to open.
- Batteries to power our electric motors – standard size or large size for longer life.
- A lamp for use in dark or dimly-lit areas, or for night-time work.
- [Extension bars](https://www.modec.fr/my-product/interfaces/?lang=en#1497865672697-4598206d-c8ba) to reach remote valves or valves or nuts that are difficult to access.
---
For the [full range of accessories](https://www.modec.fr/our-solutions/portable-valve-actuators/?lang=en#1497343783147-3c85fee1-e2ed), take a look at our product guide.
And if you think we’ve missed anything, we’d be very happy to hear from you!
[](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/1845083/b28c192e-7bd4-42a7-9779-455185cad4af)
- [Popular](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/how-to-improve-the-performance-of-your-portable-actuator#popularPosts)
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- [How to estimate the torque required for safety valve operations?](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/how-to-estimate-the-torque-required-for-safety-valve-operations?hsLang=en-us)
11/03/2024
[Read more](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/how-to-estimate-the-torque-required-for-safety-valve-operations?hsLang=en-us)
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17/04/2020
[Read more](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/what-tools-can-use-to-operate-valve-network?hsLang=en-us)
- [How to estimate the torque required to use a valve handwheel?](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/how-to-estimate-the-torque-required-to-use-a-valve-handwheel?hsLang=en-us)
30/09/2020
[Read more](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/how-to-estimate-the-torque-required-to-use-a-valve-handwheel?hsLang=en-us)
- [Digital optimization of connected industrial valves - modec connect](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/modec-connect?hsLang=en-us)
24/03/2026
[Read more](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/modec-connect?hsLang=en-us)
- [Optimize Your Actuator Selection: What Torque Do Your Valves Really Need? (Clone)](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/optimize-your-actuator-selection-what-torque-do-your-valves-really-need-clone?hsLang=en-us)
10/03/2026
[Read more](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/optimize-your-actuator-selection-what-torque-do-your-valves-really-need-clone?hsLang=en-us)
- [Grow Your Valve Supply Business with Portable Valve Actuators](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/industrial-valve-suppliers-how-to-increase-your-sales-?hsLang=en-us)
28/07/2025
[Read more](https://blog.modec.fr/portable-actuators/industrial-valve-suppliers-how-to-increase-your-sales-?hsLang=en-us)
Bruno Martin
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