SIST EN IEC 61514:2026

• Abstract:

  This International Standard specifies tests designed to determine the static and dynamic performance of single-acting or double-acting analogue positioners. The tests apply to; positioners which receive standard analogue input signals (as specified in IEC 60381-1, IEC 60381-2 and IEC 60382) and have a pneumatic output.; Positioners with pulsed or digital input signals, positioners with digital controllers and positioners with pulsed outputs are outside the scope of this document.; Testing is conducted either on a positioner alone, independently of an actuator, or on a positioner mounted and connected to a specific actuator, as a combined unit. The text makes clear where different approaches are required.; The methods of evaluation given in this document are intended for use by manufacturers to determine the performance of their products, and by users, or independent testing; establishments, to verify manufacturers' performance specifications.; The closest liaison between the evaluating body and the manufacturer is indispensable during the tests, including the possibility for the manufacturer to influence the test programme based on the manufacturer's specifications for the instrument and comment on both the test programme and the results.; This document is intended to provide definitions of positioner elements, actions, and characteristics, to specify uniform methods of measuring performance errors and effects of; influence quantities on those characteristics, and to describe methods of reporting and evaluating the results of the measurement data obtained.; The test conditions described in this publication (for example range of ambient temperatures and power supply) relate to conditions which commonly arise in use. Consequently, the values specified are used where no other values are specified by the manufacturer or user. If other values are used, they will be stated. It is recognized that the manufacturer's specifications and instructions for installation and operation apply during all steps.; The tests specified in this document are not necessarily sufficient for instruments specifically designed for unusually arduous conditions. Conversely, a reduced series of tests can serve adequately for instruments designed to perform within a more limited range of conditions.; When a full evaluation, in accordance with this document, is not required or possible, only the tests which are required are performed and the results reported in accordance with the relevant parts of this document. In such cases, the test report will state that it does not cover the full number of tests specified herein.

• Status: Published
• Public Enquiry End Date: 22-Sep-2024
• Publication Date: 12-Oct-2026
• ICS: 23.060.99 - Other valves
• ICS: 25.040.40 - Industrial process measurement and control
• Technical Committee: MOV - Measuring equipment for electromagnetic quantities
• Current Stage: 6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 18-Aug-2026
• Due Date: 23-Oct-2026
• Completion Date: 13-Oct-2026
• Ref Project: EN IEC 61514:2026 - Industrial-process control systems - Methods of evaluating the performance of valve positioners with pneumatic outputs

• Refers: SIST EN IEC 60721-3-5:2026 - Classification of environmental conditions - Part 3-5: Classification of groups of environmental parameters and their severities - Ground vehicle installations (IEC 60721-3-5:2026)
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN 61032:2001 - Protection of persons and equipment by enclosures - Probes for verification
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN 60068-2-31:2008 - Environmental testing -- Part 2-31: Tests - Test Ec: Rough handling shocks, primarily for equipment-type specimens
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN IEC 60068-2-1:2026 - Environmental testing - Part 2-1: Tests - Test A: Cold (IEC 60068-2-1:2025)
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN IEC 60721-3-7:2026 - Classification of environmental conditions - Part 3-7: Classification of groups of environmental parameters and their severities - Portable and non-stationary use (IEC 60721-3-7:2026)
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN IEC 60068-2-78:2025 - Environmental testing - Part 2-78: Tests - Test Cab: Damp heat, steady state (IEC 60068-2-78:2025)
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST HD 452.1.S1:2002 - Analogue signals for process control systems -- Part 1: Direct current signals
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN IEC 60721-3-0:2020 - Classification of environmental conditions - Part 3-0: Classification of groups of environmental parameters and their severities - Introduction (IEC 60721-3-0:2020)
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN 60068-2-6:2008 - Environmental testing - Part 2-6: Tests - Test Fc: Vibration (sinusoidal)
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN IEC 60721-3-1:2018 - Classification of environmental conditions - Part 3-1: Classification of groups of environmental parameters and their severities - Storage (IEC 60721-3-1:2018)
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN 61010-1:2010 - Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use - Part 1: General requirements (IEC 61010-1:2010)
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN 60654-2:1998 - Operating conditions for industrial-process measurement and control equipment -- Part 2: Power
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN 60654-1:1998 - Industrial-process measurement and control equipment - Operating conditions -- Part 1: Climatic conditions
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN 60382:1998 - Analogue pneumatic signal for process control systems
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026
• Refers: SIST EN 60654-4:1998 - Operating conditions for industrial-process measurement and control equipment -- Part 4: Corrosive and erosive influences
• Effective Date: 07-Jul-2026

SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 is a CENELEC/IEC standard for evaluating valve positioners with pneumatic outputs in industrial-process control systems. It specifies methods for testing static and dynamic performance of single-acting and double-acting analogue positioners, whether they are tested on their own or with an actuator. Manufacturers, users, and independent test laboratories use it to compare products, check performance claims, and report results in a common way.

What does SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 specify?

SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 specifies test methods for valve positioners with pneumatic outputs, and it limits the scope to analogue positioners that use standard analogue input signals. Positioners with pulsed or digital inputs, digital controllers, and pulsed outputs are outside the standard’s scope.

SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 is organized into clauses on scope, normative references, definitions, general test conditions, general testing procedures, test procedures, other considerations, test report and documentation, and bibliography. The document also makes a clear distinction between tests on a positioner alone and tests on a positioner mounted with an actuator, because the test arrangement changes the results in practice.

What are the key requirements of SIST EN IEC 61514:2026?

SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 is mainly a test standard, so its key requirements are the conditions under which measurements are made, the test cycles used, and the way results are reported. The practical point is that the same positioner can look different depending on supply pressure, mounting, actuator choice, and test method, so the standard fixes those variables as far as possible.

Test conditions and setup

Clause 4 sets ambient and supply conditions. The standard uses a reference atmosphere of 20 °C, 65 % relative humidity, and 101.3 kPa, and says values should be corrected back to those reference conditions where needed.

Clause 5 requires careful setup before measurement. The positioner must be stabilized after power-up, exercised through full-range traverses, and measured with enough points over the range, including points near the ends. In practice, this means a lab should not take one quick reading and treat it as representative.

Gain and travel performance

Clause 6.1 covers the gain characteristic, which is the relationship between input signal W and output signal Y with travel signal X held constant. For testing, the standard asks for gain or proportional band to be measured, and for gain changes caused by supply pressure to be noted.

Clause 6.2 covers the travel characteristic, which is the closed-loop relationship between W and X. The results are used to assess conformity or linearity and repeatability, so users can see how closely the positioner follows the intended travel curve across the range.

Error terms and dead band

Clause 6.3 defines how to calculate and report inaccuracy, measured error, conformity or linearity error, hysteresis, and repeatability error. These terms matter because they separate average behavior from spread and direction effects, which helps a buyer judge stability and control quality.

Clause 6.4 measures dead band on both the input path and the travel path. Dead band is the change needed before the output responds, so it is a practical indicator of lost sensitivity and the likelihood of poor small-signal control.

Airflow, influence quantities, and robustness

Clause 6.5 covers airflow data, including airflow characteristic, maximum delivered flow, maximum exhausted flow, output relay dead space, and steady-state air consumption. This matters because airflow often limits speed of response and tells the user how hard the positioner will load the air supply.

Clause 6.6 checks the effects of influence quantities such as supply pressure, ambient temperature, relative humidity, mounting position, mechanical shock, vibration, magnetic fields, radiated electromagnetic fields, electrical fast transients, surge voltage immunity, and series mode interference. For each test, the standard says to record the change needed to restore balance or the change in travel, which gives a direct measure of sensitivity to real-world disturbances.

Life and dynamic behavior

Clause 6.7 covers input over-range, and clause 6.8 covers start-up drift and long-term drift. Clause 6.9 covers accelerated life testing by cycling the positioner and checking changes in the lower and upper range points after 10 000, 50 000, and 100 000 cycles.

Clause 6.10 covers dynamic response through frequency response and step response tests. These tests matter when the positioner- actuator combination must follow changing signals quickly, and the standard warns that actuator load, tubing, friction, hysteresis, and saturation can strongly affect the result.

What terms does SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 define?

SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 defines the terms used to describe how a positioner behaves in testing, so the same result can be interpreted consistently.

• Positioner - A controller linked to the moving part of a final control element or actuator that adjusts output signal Y to maintain the desired travel signal X relative to input signal W.
• Single-acting positioner - A positioner with one output signal Y acting on one side of the actuator, with the return force usually provided by springs.
• Double-acting positioner - A positioner with two output signals Y and Y connected to opposite sides of an actuator diaphragm or piston.
• Input signal W - The reference input signal that represents the desired position of the control element.
• Travel signal X - The signal produced by the travel of the final control element or its actuator.
• Output signal Y - The air pressure delivered to the actuator of the final control element.
• Split ranging - A special adjustment in which full actuator travel comes from only part of the input range.
• Proportional gain factor Kp - The gain over the full range of the actuator, used to quantify how strongly the positioner responds to input change.

Who uses SIST EN IEC 61514:2026?

SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 is used by positioner manufacturers, test laboratories, and users who need to verify performance data for industrial control valves. It is also relevant to quality managers and buyers who compare products on the basis of measured gain, error, drift, airflow, and dynamic response.

The standard fits industrial-process measurement and control work, especially where pneumatic-output valve positioners are used with control valves or other final control elements. It is useful when a supplier must document product behavior under test conditions, or when an independent lab must report comparable results.

What changed in SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 from the previous edition?

The draft information identifies IEC 61514 edition 2 and states that it supersedes 65B/1202/RR and 65B/1249/CC. That means the document is presented as an updated edition of the IEC 61514 test method for pneumatic-output valve positioners.

Which standards are used with SIST EN IEC 61514:2026?

SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 relies on several normative references for vocabulary, environmental testing, signal types, safety, EMC, and test documentation.

• IEC 60050 - Supplies the common electrotechnical vocabulary used for measurement and control terminology.
• IEC 60068-2-1, IEC 60068-2-2, IEC 60068-2-6, IEC 60068-2-31, IEC 60068-2-78 - Provide the cold, dry heat, vibration, rough handling shock, and damp heat test methods used for influence testing.
• IEC 60079 - Covers electrical apparatus for explosive gas atmospheres where hazardous-area considerations apply.
• IEC 60381-1, IEC 60381-2, IEC 60382 - Define the analogue electrical and pneumatic input signals used by the positioners under test.
• IEC 60529 and IEC 61032 - Support enclosure protection and probe verification checks.
• IEC 60534-1 - Gives valve terminology and general considerations.
• IEC 60654 and IEC 60721-3 - Support operating conditions and environmental classification.
• IEC 61010-1 - Provides general safety requirements for measurement, control, and laboratory equipment.
• IEC 61326-1 - Provides EMC requirements and test conditions for magnetic fields, radiated fields, fast transients, and surge tests.
• IEC 62828-1 - Sets the general procedure for test reports and technical documentation.

What does the SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 document contain?

SIST EN IEC 61514:2026 contains detailed test procedures, test arrangements, and reporting guidance, plus the figures and tables needed to carry out and document the evaluations. Tables 1 to 5 cover environmental conditions, error presentation, vibration levels, document checks, and the results to report.

The figures show single-acting and double-acting positioner arrangements, gain characteristics, error plots, airflow test arrangements, dynamic response setups, and step-response behavior. In practice, these drawings tell the test lab how to connect the positioner, actuator, supply, dummy load, and measuring instruments.

The worked example in Table 2 and Figure 4 illustrates how to derive inaccuracy, measured error, hysteresis, non-repeatability, and linearity from repeated traverses. That is useful when a lab needs to turn raw readings into a reportable performance summary.

The document also includes the data to report for airflow, drift, over-range, influence quantities, accelerated life, and dynamic response. For a buyer or engineer, this means the report should show not just a pass or fail result, but the measured behavior under the test conditions used.

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-november-2026
Sistemi za upravljanje industrijskih procesov - Postopki za ocenjevanje
zmogljivosti pozicionirnikov z ventili s pnevmatskimi izhodi (IEC 61514:2026)
Industrial-process control systems - Methods of evaluating the performance of valve
positioners with pneumatic outputs (IEC 61514:2026)
Systeme der industriellen Prozesstechnik - Methoden der Beurteilung des
Betriebsverhaltens von Ventilstellungsreglern mit pneumatischen Ausgängen (IEC
61514:2026)
Systèmes de commande des processus industriels - Méthodes d'évaluation des
performances des positionneurs de vannes à sorties pneumatiques (IEC 61514:2026)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN IEC 61514:2026
ICS:
23.060.99 Drugi ventili Other valves
25.040.40 Merjenje in krmiljenje Industrial process
industrijskih postopkov measurement and control
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN IEC 61514

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM August 2026
ICS 23.060.99; 25.040.40 Supersedes EN 61514:2002
English Version
Industrial-process control systems - Methods of evaluating the
performance of valve positioners with pneumatic outputs
(IEC 61514:2026)
Systèmes de commande des processus industriels - Systeme der industriellen Prozesstechnik - Methoden der
Méthodes d'évaluation des performances des positionneurs Beurteilung des Betriebsverhaltens von
de vannes à sorties pneumatiques Ventilstellungsreglern mit pneumatischen Ausgängen
(IEC 61514:2026) (IEC 61514:2026)
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2026-07-14. CENELEC members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC
Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre or to any CENELEC member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.
CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Türkiye and the United Kingdom.

European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CENELEC All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC Members.
Ref. No. EN IEC 61514:2026 E
European foreword
The text of document 65B/1309/FDIS, future edition 2 of IEC 61514, prepared by SC 65B
"Measurement and control devices" of IEC/TC 65 "Industrial-process measurement, control and
automation" was submitted to the IEC-CENELEC parallel vote and approved by CENELEC as
The following dates are fixed:
• latest date by which the document has to be implemented at national (dop) 2027-08-31
level by publication of an identical national standard or by endorsement
• latest date by which the national standards conflicting with the (dow) 2029-08-31
document have to be withdrawn
This document supersedes EN 61514:2002 and all of its amendments and corrigenda (if any).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CENELEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national committee. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found on the CENELEC website.
Endorsement notice
The text of the International Standard IEC 61514:2026 was approved by CENELEC as a European
Standard without any modification.
In the official version, for Bibliography, the following notes have to be added for the standard indicated:
IEC 60079 (series) NOTE Approved as EN IEC 60079-7:2015/A1 (series)
IEC 60534-1 NOTE Approved as EN IEC 60534-1
IEC 60534-6-1 NOTE Approved as EN 60534-6-1
IEC 60534-6-2 NOTE Approved as EN 60534-6-2
IEC 60534-9 NOTE Approved as EN 60534-9
IEC 61987-24-1 NOTE Approved as EN 61987-24-1
Annex ZA
(normative)
Normative references to international publications
with their corresponding European publications
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments)
applies.
NOTE 1  Where an International Publication has been modified by common modifications, indicated by (mod),
the relevant EN/HD applies.
NOTE 2  Up-to-date information on the latest versions of the European Standards listed in this annex is available
here: www.cencenelec.eu.
Publication Year Title EN/HD Year
IEC 60050-311 - International electrotechnical vocabulary - - -
Electrical and electronic measurements -
Part 311: General terms relating to
electrical measurements
IEC 60050-351 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - - -
Part 351: Control technology
IEC 60068-2-1 - Environmental testing - Part 2-1: Tests - EN IEC 60068-2-1 -
Test A: Cold
IEC 60068-2-2 - Environmental testing - Part 2-2: Tests - EN IEC 60068-2-2 -
Test B: Dry heat
IEC 60068-2-6 - Environmental testing - Part 2-6: Tests - EN 60068-2-6 -
Test Fc: Vibration (sinusoidal)
IEC 60068-2-31 - Environmental testing - Part 2-31: Tests - EN 60068-2-31 -
Test Ec: Rough handling shocks, primarily
for equipment-type specimens
IEC 60068-2-78 - Environmental testing - Part 2-78: Tests - EN IEC 60068-2-78 -
Test Cab: Damp heat, steady state
IEC 60381-1 - Analogue signals for process control HD 452.1 S1 -
systems. Part 1: Direct current signals
IEC 60381-2 - Analogue signals for process control - -
systems. Part 2: Direct voltage signals
IEC 60382 - Analogue pneumatic signal for process EN 60382 -
control systems
IEC 60529 - Degrees of protection provided by - -
enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60654 series Industrial-process measurement and EN 60654 series
control equipment - Operating conditions
IEC 60721-3 series Classification of environmental conditions - EN IEC 60721-3 series
Part 3: Classification of groups of
environmental parameters and their
severities
IEC 61010-1 - Safety requirements for electrical EN 61010-1 -
equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use - Part 1: General
requirements
IEC 61032 - Protection of persons and equipment by EN 61032 -
enclosures - Probes for verification
IEC 61298-4 - Process measurement and control devices EN 61298-4 -
- General methods and procedures for
evaluating performance - Part 4:
Evaluation report content
IEC 61326-1 - Electrical equipment for measurement, EN IEC 61326-1 -
control and laboratory use - EMC
requirements - Part 1: General
requirements
IEC 61514 ®
Edition 2.0 2026-06
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Industrial-process control systems - Methods of evaluating the performance of
valve positioners with pneumatic outputs

ICS 23.060.99; 25.040.40 ISBN 978-2-8327-1288-7

IEC 61514:2026-06(en)
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 General conditions for tests . 11
4.1 Environmental test conditions . 11
4.1.1 General . 11
4.1.2 Limits of ambient conditions for test measurements . 11
4.2 Supply conditions . 11
4.2.1 Reference values . 11
4.2.2 Tolerances . 11
5 General testing procedures. 12
5.1 Test equipment . 12
5.2 Test methods . 12
5.3 Testing precautions . 12
5.4 Basic test arrangement . 13
5.4.1 General . 13
5.4.2 Positioner tested independently of an actuator . 13
5.4.3 Positioner tested in conjunction with an actuator . 14
5.5 Initial setting-up . 15
5.5.1 General . 15
5.5.2 Positioner tested independently of an actuator . 15
5.5.3 Positioner tested in conjunction with an actuator . 15
6 Test procedures . 15
6.1 Gain characteristic . 15
6.1.1 General . 15
6.1.2 Positioner tested independently of an actuator . 16
6.1.3 Positioner tested in conjunction with an actuator . 16
6.2 Travel characteristic . 17
6.2.1 General . 17
6.2.2 Positioner tested independently of an actuator . 17
6.2.3 Positioner tested in conjunction with an actuator . 17
6.3 Accuracy related terms . 18
6.3.1 Inaccuracy . 18
6.3.2 Measured error . 18
6.3.3 Conformity error or linearity error (non-conformity/non-linearity) . 18
6.3.4 Hysteresis . 18
6.3.5 Repeatability error (non-repeatability) . 18
6.4 Dead band . 19
6.4.1 Dead band – Input path . 19
6.4.2 Dead band – Travel path . 20
6.5 Airflow data . 21
6.5.1 Airflow characteristic . 21
6.5.2 Steady-state air consumption. 23
6.6 Effects of influence quantities . 24
6.6.1 General . 24
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
6.6.2 Supply pressure. 25
6.6.3 Ambient temperature . 25
6.6.4 Relative humidity . 26
6.6.5 Mounting position . 27
6.6.6 Mechanical shock . 27
6.6.7 Vibration . 28
6.6.8 Power-frequency magnetic field . 29
6.6.9 Radiated electromagnetic field interference . 30
6.6.10 Electrical fast transients (burst) . 30
6.6.11 Surge voltage immunity . 31
6.6.12 Series mode interference . 32
6.7 Input over-range . 32
6.7.1 General . 32
6.7.2 Positioner tested independently of an actuator . 33
6.7.3 Positioner tested in conjunction with an actuator . 33
6.7.4 Common text for positioners tested independently of an actuator/with an
actuator . 33
6.8 Drift . 33
6.8.1 General . 33
6.8.2 Start-up drift . 33
6.8.3 Long-term drift . 34
6.9 Accelerated life test . 34
6.9.1 Positioner tested independently of an actuator . 34
6.9.2 Positioner tested in conjunction with an actuator . 34
6.9.3 Common text for positioners tested in conjunction with/independently of
an actuator . 35
6.10 Dynamic response . 35
6.10.1 General . 35
6.10.2 General considerations . 35
6.10.3 Basic test arrangement . 35
6.10.4 Frequency response . 36
6.10.5 Step response . 37
7 Other considerations . 39
7.1 General . 39
7.2 Safety . 40
7.3 Degree of protection provided by enclosures . 40
7.4 Documentary information . 40
7.5 Installation . 41
7.6 Routine maintenance and adjustment . 41
7.7 Repair . 41
7.8 Protective finishes . 41
7.9 Design features . 41
7.10 Variants . 41
7.11 Tools and equipment . 41
8 Test report and documentation . 42
Bibliography . 44

Figure 1 – Single- and double-acting positioner/actuator . 8
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
Figure 2 – Gain characteristic . 10
Figure 3 – Basic test arrangement . 14
Figure 4 – Typical error plot . 20
Figure 5 – Test arrangement for measurement of airflow characteristic . 22
Figure 6 – Typical air flow characteristic . 23
Figure 7 – Series mode interference . 32
Figure 8 – Simple dynamic response test arrangement . 36
Figure 9 – Two examples of frequency response tests . 37
Figure 10 – Two examples of responses to a step input . 39

Table 1 – Environmental conditions . 11
Table 2 – Typical table of errors . 19
Table 3 – Vibration test levels . 28
Table 4 – Document information . 40
Table 5 – Test results to be reported . 42

IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
Industrial-process control systems -
Methods of evaluating the performance
of valve positioners with pneumatic outputs

FOREWORD
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9) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
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shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
IEC 61514 has been prepared by subcommittee 65B: Devices, of IEC technical committee
65: Industrial-process measurement and control. It is an International Standard.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2000. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) in 6.6.8 and Table 5, the magnetic field has been changed from 100 A/m to of 30 A/m (Mean
Root Square);
b) 6.10.4 and Figure 9 have been modified for better understandability;
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
c) in 7.4, the reference to IEC 61187 has been deleted and replaced with a new Table 4:
Document information.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
65B/1309/FDIS 65B/1321/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
– reconfirmed,
– withdrawn, or
– revised.
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies tests designed to determine the static and dynamic
performance of single-acting or double-acting analogue positioners. The tests apply to
positioners which receive standard analogue input signals (as specified in IEC 60381-1,
IEC 60381-2 and IEC 60382) and have a pneumatic output.
Positioners with pulsed or digital input signals, positioners with digital controllers and
positioners with pulsed outputs are outside the scope of this document.
Testing is conducted either on a positioner alone, independently of an actuator, or on a
positioner mounted and connected to a specific actuator, as a combined unit. The text makes
clear where different approaches are required.
The methods of evaluation given in this document are intended for use by manufacturers to
determine the performance of their products, and by users, or independent testing
establishments, to verify manufacturers' performance specifications.
The closest liaison between the evaluating body and the manufacturer is indispensable during
the tests, including the possibility for the manufacturer to influence the test programme based
on the manufacturer's specifications for the instrument and comment on both the test
programme and the results.
This document is intended to provide definitions of positioner elements, actions, and
characteristics, to specify uniform methods of measuring performance errors and effects of
influence quantities on those characteristics, and to describe methods of reporting and
evaluating the results of the measurement data obtained.
The test conditions described in this publication (for example range of ambient temperatures
and power supply) relate to conditions which commonly arise in use. Consequently, the values
specified are used where no other values are specified by the manufacturer or user. If other
values are used, they will be stated. It is recognized that the manufacturer's specifications and
instructions for installation and operation apply during all steps.
The tests specified in this document are not necessarily sufficient for instruments specifically
designed for unusually arduous conditions. Conversely, a reduced series of tests can serve
adequately for instruments designed to perform within a more limited range of conditions.
When a full evaluation, in accordance with this document, is not required or possible, only the
tests which are required are performed and the results reported in accordance with the relevant
parts of this document. In such cases, the test report will state that it does not cover the full
number of tests specified herein.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60050-311, International electrotechnical vocabulary - Electrical and electronic
measurements - Part 311: General terms relating to electrical measurements
IEC 60050-351, International electrotechnical vocabulary - Part 351: Control technology
IEC 60068-2-1, Environmental testing - Part 2-1: Tests - Test A: Cold
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
IEC 60068-2-2, Environmental testing - Part 2-2: Tests - Test B: Dry heat
IEC 60068-2-6, Environmental testing - Part 2-6: Tests - Test Fc: Vibration (sinusoidal)
IEC 60068-2-31, Environmental testing - Part 2-31: Tests - Test Ec: Rough handling shocks,
primarily for equipment-type specimens
IEC 60068-2-78, Environmental testing - Part 2-78: Tests - Test Cab: Damp heat, steady state
IEC 60381-1, Analogue signals for process control systems - Part 1: Direct current signals
IEC 60381-2, Analogue signals for process control systems - Part 2: Direct voltage signals
IEC 60382, Analogue pneumatic signal for process control systems
IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60654 (all parts), Industrial-process measurement and control equipment - Operating
conditions
IEC 60721-3 (all parts), Classification of environmental conditions - Part 3 Classification of
groups of environmental parameters and their severities
IEC 61010-1, Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use - Part 1: General requirements
IEC 61032, Protection of persons and equipment by enclosures - Probes for verification
IEC 61298-4, Process measurement and control devices - General methods and procedures for
evaluating performance - Part 4: Evaluation report content
IEC 61326-1, Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use - EMC
requirements - Part 1: General requirements
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-311 and
IEC 60050- 351 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
– IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
– ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
positioner
position controller connected to the moving part of a final control element or its actuator;
automatically adjusts its output signal Y to the actuator in order to maintain a desired travel
signal X that bears a predetermined relationship to the input signal W
Note 1 to entry: In this document, only positioners with pneumatic output signals Y are considered. The input signal
W may be an air pressure (pneumatic positioner), or an electric current or voltage (electro-pneumatic positioner).
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
3.1.1
single-acting positioner
positioner having one output signal Y which acts on one side of the actuator
SEE: Figure 1 a).
Note 1 to entry: The returning force for the actuator is usually provided by springs.
3.1.2
double-acting positioner
positioner providing two output signals Y and Y connected to opposite sides of the actuator
D R
diaphragm or piston
SEE: Figure 1 b).
a) Single-acting positioner/actuator

b) Double-acting positioner/actuator
Figure 1 – Single- and double-acting positioner/actuator
3.2
input signal W
reference input signal which represents the desired position of the associated control element
3.3
travel signal X
signal which results from the linear or angular travel caused by movement of the final control
element or its actuator
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
3.4
output signal Y
air pressure delivered to the actuator of the final control element
3.5
supply pressure
air pressure at the supply connector of the positioner
3.6
action
direction of the output signal Y in relation to the direction of the input signal W
3.6.1
direct action
output signal Y increases as the value of the input signal W increases
3.6.2
reverse action
output signal Y decreases as the value of the input signal W increases
3.7
split ranging
special adjustment in which the full travel of the actuator is achieved from only part of the whole
input range (for example 0 % to 50 % or 50 % to 100 %)
3.8
gain characteristic
relationship between input signal W and output signal Y with travel signal X kept constant
(i.e. locked stem)
SEE: Figure 2.
Note 1 to entry: Incremental gain ΔY/ΔW varies with pressure and the related pressure shall be stated.
3.9
proportional gain factor K
p
gain over the full range of the actuator
Note 1 to entry: The proportional gain factor for a single-acting positioner can be derived from the gain characteristic
(Figure 2 a)):
ΔY
max
K =
p
ΔW
max
where ΔW is the change of input signal W as a percentage of span required to change the output signal over the
max
whole range (ΔY for 100 %). In this case ΔW (%) corresponds to the proportional band X (%). The output
max max p
signal range ΔY is taken to be the nominal range stated by the manufacturer.
max
For a double-acting positioner, a proportional gain factor for each output may be derived separately (see Figure 2 b):
ΔY ΔY
max max
K = K =
pD pR
ΔW ΔW
Dmax Rmax
The proportional gain factor K for a double-acting positioner can then be calculated as the summation of the two
p
individual gain factors, i.e.:
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
KK+ K
ppDRp
or derived from the differential pressure characteristic (Y – Y ); see Figure 2 b.
D R
The balance pressure Y is the cross-over point of the direct Y and reverse Y characteristics. Generally, this value
B D R
depends on the supply pressure applied to the positioner.

a) Single-acting positioner b) Double-acting positioner

Figure 2 – Gain characteristic
3.10
proportional band X
p
is defined as
100 %
X (%)=
p
K
p
local gain factor K
l
slope of the gain characteristic at a specific input value
3.11
travel characteristic
closed-loop relationship of a positioner/actuator between the input signal W and the travel signal
X
Note 1 to entry: The intended relationship between input signal W and travel signal X (for example linear or equal
percentage) determines the ideal characteristic.
3.12
measured error
positive or negative value of error of the average up-scale or down-scale value at each point of
measurement
=
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
4 General conditions for tests
4.1 Environmental test conditions
4.1.1 General
The tests shall be performed under the ambient test conditions recommended below:
Table 1 – Environmental conditions
Atmospheric test conditions Temperature Relative humidity Atmospheric pressure
°C % kPa
Standard reference atmosphere 20 65 101,3
Recommended limits 15 to 25 45 to 75 86 to 106
Referee measurements a: 20 ± 2 65 ± 5 86 to 106
b: 23 ± 2 50 ± 5 86 to 106
The test values shall be corrected back to the standard reference atmosphere conditions listed
above. The standard reference atmosphere is equivalent to the normal reference operating
conditions commonly identified by the manufacturer.
It is recognized that there cannot be a factor to correct for humidity. When measurements within
the recommended range of ambient conditions are unsatisfactory, and the correction factors to
adjust parameters to the standard atmosphere are unknown, repeat measurements (referee
measurements) may be conducted under the conditions listed in Table 1, a or b, or other
reference operating conditions identified by the manufacturer.
Special equipment can be required to maintain the basic test conditions within the limits
specified.
4.1.2 Limits of ambient conditions for test measurements
Electromagnetic field: value shall be stated, if relevant.
Maximum rate of change of ambient temperature permissible during any test: 1 °C in 10 min,
but not more than 3 °C/h.
4.2 Supply conditions
4.2.1 Reference values
Electrical supply: the values specified by the manufacturer.
Pneumatic supply: the values specified by the manufacturer, or a supply pressure of 4,0 bar
(400 kPa).
4.2.2 Tolerances
The tolerances given below apply, unless closer tolerances are agreed between user and
manufacturer.
a) Electrical supply
1) Rated voltage: ±1 %.
2) Rated frequency: ±1 %.
3) Harmonic distortion (AC supply): less than 5 %.
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
4) Ripple (DC supply): less than 0,1 %.
b) Pneumatic supply
1) Rated pressure: ±3 %;
2) Supply air temperature: ambient temperature ±2 °C.
3) Supply air humidity: dew-point at least 10 °C below device body
temperature.
4) Oil and dust content
–6
i) oil: less than 10 by weight;
ii) dust: absence of particles greater than 3 µm in diameter.
5 General testing procedures
5.1 Test equipment
When the accuracy rating of the reference measuring means is one-tenth or less than that of
the device under test, the accuracy rating of the reference measuring means may be ignored in
calculations, but shall be reported. When the accuracy rating of the reference measuring means
is one-third or less, but greater than one-tenth of that of the device under test, the accuracy
rating of the reference measuring means shall be stated in the report.
5.2 Test methods
Specific test methods and test configurations are described separately in Clause 6.
5.3 Testing precautions
Unless affecting the influence condition being tested, the following conditions shall apply.
An adequate time, as specified by the manufacturer, shall be allowed after switching on the
power supply in order to allow stabilization of the positioner and/or associated test equipment.
In the absence of a manufacturer specification, a period of at least 15 min shall be allowed (at
least 30 min for electrical supplies).
Prior to recording observations, the device under test shall be exercised by three or more full
range traverses in each direction.
The measurement points used to determine the relevant performance characteristic should be
distributed over the range. They should include points at or near (within 10 %) the lower- and
upper-range values. There should be at least six measurement points, and preferably more.
The number and location of these measurement points should be consistent with the degree of
precision required and the characteristic being evaluated. Each measurement point should be
reached avoiding any overshoot of the input signal.
At each point being observed, the recording shall be made after the device becomes stabilized
at its apparent steady-state value.
Tapping or vibrating the device under test is not allowed unless the performance characteristic
under study requires such action.
All testing should be conducted with positioner covers in place.
Any mechanical stops should be adjusted so that they do not interfere with the measurements.
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
All tests shall be conducted with the device in (an) agreed mounting position(s), which shall be
stated in the report.
Characteristics and data which are dependent on the supply pressure value (for example air
consumption, flow capacity, etc.) should be measured at minimum and maximum values of the
specified supply pressure range.
Positioners fitted with a cam shall be tested with input to travel characteristics which are
normally linear.
5.4 Basic test arrangement
5.4.1 General
The basic test arrangements are shown in Figure 3 a) and 3 b).
5.4.2 Positioner tested independently of an actuator
Tests carried out on a positioner, tested independently of an actuator, are conducted with the
output Y of the positioner connected only to a dummy load (sometimes referred to as "open-
loop" operation).
Unless otherwise agreed, a 1 000 cm volume shall be connected to the output. In this way, the
performance of the positioner is not affected by the performance of the actuator.
This is the only test method which provides positioner data independent of an actuator, and can
be useful in comparing the performance of one positioner with another, or in checking a
manufacturer's specification for a positioner.
The travel adjustment can be made manually or by using an actuator (manually controlled).
The input signal W can be manually adjusted to obtain the required re-balance of output signal
Y, or a loop between output signal Y and input signal W can be arranged if desired, i.e. automatic
re-balance.
IEC 61514:2026 © IEC 2026
a)
b)
Figure 3 – Basic test arrangement
With positioners possessing an additional integral mode (i.e. P+I control action), it is necessary
to use an automatic re-balance loop to achieve stable measurements. In this case, the output
Y of the positioner is connected to the input (+) of the pneumatic rebalance device (for example
summing relay or P+I controller), whose output is fed back to the input W of the positioner. In
cases where the input W is an electrical signal, a pressure/electrical convertor must be included
in the circuit, after the re-balance device. The arrangement for this additional test is shown in
Figure 3 b).
The input signal W can be a pressure or an electrical signal. The output signal Y is a pressure.
The normal test procedure will be to set the travel input signal X to some desired position and
then to adjust the input signal W sufficiently to balance a change in output signal Y.
5.4.3 Positioner tested in conjunction with an actuator
Tests carried out in conjunction with an actuator are conducted on a positioner when it is
mounted on and connected to an actuator, as a complete positioner/actuator assembly.
The positioner may be fitted to any commercially available actuator with which it is compatible.
The selected actuator is the choice of the user or the manufacturer. Generally, the results of
tests can be affected by performance of the actuator used for the test. Therefore, supporting
information about the actuator used (such as friction, inertia, type of packing material, etc.)
should be included in the pre
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