Actuated ball valves are opened and closed under electric or pneumatic power. Important features of actuated ball valves also include easy confirmation of the valve state and manual control using an integrated handle. Limit switches are built into the ball valve to allow users to remotely sense whether the valve is open or closed.
While these valves don't offer precise control of flow, they can be used in applications where a property such as temperature needs to be controlled. Some manufacturers sell thermostatically controlled actuators, which allow this application to be trivially solved. Acutated valves are an essential part of today's industrial process landscape. The ability to remotely divert fluids quickly and accurately allows manufacturers to remain competitive.