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What is an actuator?

An actuator is a machine that moves or controls components in a system by converting energy into physical motion. This energy can come from electricity, water pressure, or air pressure. Depending on its design and the desired motion, an actuator can produce linear or rotary movement.

Actuators come in different types, such as electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic, each using different types of energy. They are widely used in many industries, like robotics, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and heating and cooling systems in buildings. Most use some type of control system and work with other types of machinery for various applications.

 

Electric linear actuator in various sizes, stroke lengths and power ratings

 

What are the different types of actuators?

Actuators come in different types depending on the energy source and the mechanism they use for movement. Some common types include:

Electric

These use electrical energy to generate motion, often through the use of motors, solenoids, or piezoelectric elements.

 

Hydraulic

Hydraulic actuators utilize pressurized fluid to generate motion, typically employing cylinders or pistons to move loads.

 

Pneumatic

Pneumatic actuators use compressed air to produce motion, often employing cylinders or rotary actuators.

 

Piezoelectric

These actuators utilize the piezoelectric effect to produce motion when subjected to an electrical field, commonly used in precise positioning applications.

 

Thermal

These actuators use thermal energy to produce motion, such as shape memory alloys that change shape when heated.

 
 

How do I choose which type of actuator I need?

Choosing the right actuator for your needs involves considering several factors. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:

  1. Identify Your Application Requirements

    • Determine the type of motion required for your actuator: Do you need linear or rotary motion?
    • Consider the force or torque requirements: How much force or torque is needed to move your load?
    • Evaluate the speed requirements: How fast does the actuator need to move?
    • Assess precision requirements: Do you need precise positioning or control?

  2. Understand Environmental Conditions

    • Consider the operating environment: Will the actuator be exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, dust, or corrosive substances?
    • Evaluate space constraints: How much space is available for installation? Consider size and mounting options.

  3. Compare Actuator Types

    • Research different types of actuators available (electric, hydraulic, pneumatic) and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
    • Match the characteristics of each actuator type with your application requirements

  4. Consider Power Source and Infrastructure

    • Determine the availability and suitability of power sources: Do you have access to electrical power, hydraulic systems, or compressed air?
    • Assess infrastructure requirements: Consider installation, maintenance, and operational costs associated with each type of actuator.

  5. Evaluate Cost and Lifecycle Considerations

    • Compare initial purchase costs as well as long-term maintenance and operational costs.
    • Consider the expected lifespan of the actuator and potential downtime for maintenance or repairs.

  6. Seek Expert Advice if Necessary

    • Consult with engineers, manufacturers, or experts in the field to get insights and recommendations tailored to your specific application needs.

  7. Test and Validate

    • If possible, test prototypes or conduct simulations to verify the suitability of the selected actuator for your application.
    • Consider factors such as reliability, efficiency, and ease of integration into your system.
 

By evaluating your application requirements, environmental conditions, and available resources, you can choose the actuator that best meets your needs and ensures optimal performance for your system.

 

Electric vs. hydraulic actuators

Electric and hydraulic actuators both convert energy into motion, but they differ in several key aspects, including their operation, characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.

Robust electric actuator LA36 in a test environment  
 

Electric

Hydraulic

 

Operation

Electric actuators use electrical energy to generate motion. They typically involve motors (such as DC motors, stepper motors, or servo motors) to convert electrical energy into rotational or linear motion.

Hydraulic actuators use pressurized fluid, usually oil, to generate motion. They typically involve cylinders or pistons that are moved by the pressure exerted by the fluid.

 

Characteristics

Electric actuators tend to provide precise control over motion, as they can be easily controlled by varying the voltage or current supplied to the motor. They often have higher accuracy and repeatability.

Hydraulic actuators are known for their high force output capabilities. They can generate significant force even with relatively small actuators due to the incompressibility of fluids.

 

Advantages

Electric actuators are generally cleaner and more environmentally friendly since they don't require hydraulic fluid. They also tend to have simpler maintenance requirements and are easier to integrate into electrical control systems.

Hydraulic actuators are capable of generating high forces and can provide constant force or torque throughout the motion. They are often used in applications requiring heavy lifting or high-force output.

 

Disadvantages

Electric actuators may have limitations in terms of maximum force output compared to hydraulic actuators. They can also be more prone to overheating under heavy loads or during prolonged operation.

Hydraulic actuators require hydraulic fluid, which needs to be contained, monitored, and sometimes replaced, leading to more complex maintenance requirements. They can also be less precise than electric actuators, especially in applications requiring fine control.

 

Application

Electric actuators are commonly used in applications requiring precise positioning, such as robotics, automation, and electronics. They are also widely used in industries where cleanliness and ease of integration are important, such as food processing and pharmaceuticals.

Hydraulic actuators are often employed in applications requiring high-force output, such as construction equipment, heavy machinery, and industrial presses. They are also used in aerospace and automotive applications where high force and reliability are crucial.

 

In summary, the choice between electric and hydraulic actuators depends on the specific requirements of the application, including force output, precision, environmental considerations, maintenance requirements, and integration with existing systems.

 

Linear vs. rotary actuators

Linear and rotary actuators are two common types of actuators used for generating linear and rotational motion. Both create movement, but they differ significantly in their applications.

Linear actuators are used to move objects in a straight line, like lifting a table up and down, which is called linear movement. In contrast, rotary actuators rotate objects around an axis, such as opening and closing a valve. The choice between linear and rotary actuators depends on the specific requirements of the application, whether it needs linear or rotational motion.

Linear actuator from a different angle, focus on the spindle in the actuator
 

Motion Type

  • Linear: Linear actuators produce linear motion, meaning they move objects along a straight path. They are designed to extend or retract in a linear direction, pushing or pulling loads in a straight line.
  • Rotary: Rotary actuators produce rotational motion, meaning they rotate objects around an axis. They are designed to rotate objects in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

Design

  • Linear: A Linear actuator typically consist of a motor (such as electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic) coupled with a mechanism (such as a lead screw, belt, or rack and pinion) that converts the rotary motion of the motor into linear motion.
  • Rotary: A Rotary actuator typically consist of a motor coupled with a mechanism (such as gears, cams, or belts) that directly produces rotational motion.

Applications

  • Linear: A Linear actuator is commonly used in applications where linear motion is required, such as lifting, pushing, pulling, or positioning objects along a straight path. They are found in various industries including automotive, robotics, medical devices, and home automation.
  • Rotary: A Rotary actuator is used in applications where rotational motion is needed, such as turning valves, opening/closing doors or gates, controlling robotic arms, and steering mechanisms in vehicles.

Advantages

  • Linear: A Linear actuator is advantageous for applications requiring precise linear positioning and control. They can offer straightforward installation and integration into systems that require linear motion.
  • Rotary: A Rotary actuator is advantageous for applications requiring rotational motion, especially when space is limited or when objects need to be rotated around an axis.

Disadvantages

  • Linear: A Linear actuator may have limitations in terms of stroke length and force output, depending on the specific design and mechanism used. It can also be prone to buckling or bending if not properly supported.
  • Rotary: A Rotary actuator may have limitations in terms of the range of rotation and torque output, depending on the specific design and mechanism used. They can also be more complex to install and integrate compared to linear actuators.

The choice between linear or rotary actuators depends on the specific requirements of the application, including the type of motion needed (linear or rotational), available space, force or torque requirements, precision, and other factors. Each type of actuator has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the selection should be made based on a careful evaluation of these factors.

 

Pneumatic vs. hydraulic actuators

A hydraulic actuator uses pressurized fluid, typically oil, to generate motion, offering high force output and precise control for linear motion applications. Pneumatic actuators, on the other hand, utilize compressed air to produce motion, often providing faster speeds and simpler control systems, suitable for applications requiring lighter loads and rapid movement.

  • Hydraulic Actuators: Hydraulic actuators use pressurized fluid, typically oil, to generate motion. They convert the energy from the pressurized fluid into mechanical motion, usually linear, through cylinders or pistons.
  • Pneumatic Actuators: Pneumatic actuators, on the other hand, use compressed air to generate motion. They convert the energy into mechanical motion, which can be linear or rotary, typically through cylinders.

In summary, hydraulic actuators use oil while pneumatic actuators use air. This fundamental difference in fluid type impacts their performance characteristics, such as force output, speed, precision, and maintenance requirements, making each type suitable for different applications based on specific requirements and constraints.

Engineer analyses different actuators for his project

 

10 Reasons why LINAK is the best choice for your actuator needs

LINAK is a well-known manufacturer of electric linear actuators, offering a wide range of products known for their quality, reliability, and versatility. Here are ten reasons why LINAK stands out:

  1. High-Quality Construction
    A LINAK electric linear actuator is constructed using durable materials and precision engineering, ensuring long-term reliability and performance even in demanding environments.

  2. Variety of Models
    LINAK offers a diverse range of electric linear actuators to suit various applications and requirements. These use electric power and linear force to move your objects as needed.

  3. Smooth and Precise Motion
    LINAK linear actuators are designed to provide smooth and precise linear motion, enabling accurate positioning and control. This is essential for applications that require precise movement, such as medical equipment, adjustable furniture, and industrial automation.

  4. Customization Options
    LINAK offers customization options to meet specific application needs. This includes modifications to stroke length, mounting options, feedback systems, and integration with control systems.

  5. Quiet Operation
    LINAK linear actuators are engineered for quiet operation, making them suitable for applications where noise is a concern, such as healthcare environments, offices, and residential settings.

  6. High Load Capacity
    LINAK linear actuators are capable of handling high loads, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial applications, including lifting, pushing, pulling, and positioning heavy objects.

  7. Robust Protection
    Many LINAK linear actuators feature robust protection against environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. This ensures reliable operation even in harsh conditions.

  8. Energy Efficiency
    LINAK electric linear actuators are designed to be energy-efficient, helping to reduce overall power consumption and operating costs, especially in applications where multiple actuators are used.

  9. Safety Features
    LINAK linear actuators are equipped with safety features such as overload protection, thermal protection, and functionalities to ensure safe operation and protect both equipment and personnel.

  10. Global Support and Service
    LINAK provides global support and service, including technical assistance, spare parts availability, and product training, ensuring customers receive prompt assistance and support throughout the lifecycle of their linear actuators.

Overall, LINAK actuators are recognized for their quality, performance, and versatility, making them a popular choice across various industries and applications where reliable and precise linear motion is required.

 

What is next?

To find the perfect actuator for your application, contact us today.

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