Abstract: Provided is a multilayer cutting blade (1) including a core (2) that has a cutting wire (3), two side flanks (5), and two intermediate connecting thicknesses (4), the side flanks (5) being made of a corrosion-resistant tough metal alloy, each intermediate connecting thickness (4) having a first face (8) for connecting to the core (2) and a second face (9) for connecting to one or the other of the side flanks (5), the first connecting face (8) and the second connecting face (9) being made of copper or a copper alloy. The core (2) is made of martensitic stainless steel, and the thickness of the core (2) is greater than or equal to one third of the thickness of the cutting blade (1), and preferably greater than or equal to half the thickness of the cutting blade (1).

Abstract: Apparatus for actuating a valve includes a support frame and at least one valve driving linkage arm, one end of which is rotatably connected to a valve stem of the valve and the other end of which is rotatably connected to a screw block. A motor connected to the frame is operatively connected to a motor driven shaft which is in threaded screw driving relationship with the screw block. The motor rotates the motor driven shaft which drives translational movement of the screw block which drives rotatable movement of the valve driving linkage arm which drives translational movement of the valve stem. The valve actuator may further include a sensory control element disposed in operative relationship with the valve stem, the sensory control element being adapted to provide control over the position of the valve stem by at least sensing the travel and/or position of the valve stem.