Linear Actuators: Types and Characteristics

A Linear Actuator is totally different from electric motor because it applies pressure in a linear way instead of rotationally. The linear motion will be achieved in numerous ways and a linear actuator is likely one of the units that may covert rotational motion to linear motion.

Mechanical type

A mechanical actuator converts the rotary motion to linear displacement through screws/gears to which a knob is attached. One of the renowned examples of mechanical actuator is a jackscrew or automotive jack. Mechanical actuator is used in lasers and optics for manipulating the position of mirror mounts, linear levels and plenty of more positioning instruments.

Hydraulic type

A hydraulic actuator or cylinder has a hollow cylinder with a piston inside it. Managed linear displacement of the piston is achieved by pressurizing/de-pressurizing sides of the piston. Hydraulic car jack is the most common instance of a manually operated hydraulic actuator.

Electro-mechanical type

A linear electromechanical actuator is a in which a nut is the main a part of the motor. The lead screw of the actuator doesn’t rotate and the lead nut is rotated by the motor. It’s similar to mechanical actuator however an electrical motor is used instead of a control knob or handle.

The fashionable linear actuators come in numerous designs and each manufacture has their own proprietary strategies of making actuators.

Principles of Linear Movement Actuators

The essential operation principle of linear motion actuators is an inclined plane. The lead screw has threads, which act as ramp and permit small rotational drive that can be utilized over lengthy distance for achieving the movement of huge load within a shorter distance.

Variations in Linear Movement Actuators

There are completely different variations within the fundamental design of linear actuators. Most of the gadgets have general improvements like higher pace, effectivity or load capacity. Nowadays, producers are additionally focusing more on reducing the size of these actuators. There is number of actuators available in market, which fits particular industrial needs of buyers.

What make linear motion actuators better compared to different motors are their faster velocity, higher accuracy and better acceleration. These are used for gantry axes, general purpose position, gantry axes and meeting machines. Linear actuators are specially meant to be used in adverse conditions and act as replacement towards different hazardous actuators for performing the job.

Apart from linear actuators, DC actuators are also used for performing similar applications. These run smoothly and don’t produce much noise. Many DC actuators available in the market are water proof. Buyers can opt for commonplace as well as personalized range of actuators relying on their need and budget.