Linear Actuators (2024)

FAQs

What is a linear actuator? ›

A linear actuator is a device that moves between two points in a linear motion. Linear actuators are available based on a variety of technologies including: Mechanical, Electro-Mechanical, Direct Electric (Linear Motors), Hydraulic & Pneumatic.

There are several reasons why linear actuator costs can be relatively expensive: High precision and accuracy: Linear actuators need to be precise and accurate to ensure that they move exactly as intended. This requires high-quality materials and manufacturing processes, which can increase the cost of production.

The linear actuator transforms the rotary motion into linear motion. The stepper motor provides rotary power to the actuator. The rotor of the actuator features a threaded precision nut and a lead screw. These components produce a linear motion when the rotor is turned.

Linear actuators can be powered by AC or DC electric motors and controlled by a variety of means like switches, potentiometers or programmable controllers. Some linear actuators are also equipped with sensors that provide performance feedback on position, velocity and force.

Described as a low-cost alternative to high-torque linear actuators, the UKE series stepping motors provide almost three times the force, 250N as opposed 88N, in a smaller package.

Improper loading, failure to set limit switches excessive duty and extreme environments may contribute to premature actuator failure.

Linear actuators convert rotational motion into push or pull linear motion, which can be used for lifting, dropping, sliding, or tilting machines or materials. Although the function of all linear actuators is the same, there are several different ways the motion is achieved.

Thanks to their higher voltage, 24 volt dc linear actuators draw a lower current than 12V actuators. Current reduction has a number of advantages, such as saving costs on wiring and electrics and reduced losses in a conductor.

Is linear actuator hydraulic or pneumatic? ›

Force, speed, and precision are important to consider when choosing which type of linear actuator is best for your application. For example, both hydraulic and pneumatic designs can deliver more speed and force per unit than electric actuators, but pneumatic actuators are far more precise than hydraulic actuators.

The force of a linear actuator can vary between models and technologies. Force can be much less than 1 lb in small actuators to 2000 lbs or more in large actuators, depending on the technology.

Other industry terms for linear actuators which Deltron Precision manufactures include: ball screw driven stages, lead screw driven stages, XY stages, motorized stages, motor driven stages, DL Linear actuators, linear stages,, and crossed roller stages.

Actuators are exactly the same. They are simple devices that only recognize on or off. They are incapable of position control on their own. A servo actuator is different in that it can receive a command to go to a specific position, and then act on that command.

To control a linear actuator, you need to use either a DPDT relay with a SPST (single pole single throw) switch or two SPDT (single pole double throw) relays with a DPDT switch.

The linear actuator's position remains fixed at its current position, even in the applied voltage absence. Feedback: Solenoids do not allow the rod position to be tracked, nor can the position feedback be implemented because the motion is in a single stage with a maximum position.

So what's the big difference between actuators and motors? Think of actuators as devices that help produce linear motion and motors as devices that help produce rotational movement.

While linear actuators are designed for straightforward, unidirectional motion, servo actuators offer more control.

Linear actuation can provide aid in manufacturing applications that provide ergonomic strain to employees. In these facilities, linear actuators provide much of the same automation support that they would in other material handling applications.