Linear Actuators: Types and Characteristics

A Linear Actuator is different from electrical motor because it applies power in a linear way instead of rotationally. The linear motion can be achieved in several ways and a linear actuator is without doubt one of the units that may covert rotational motion to linear motion.

Mechanical type

A mechanical actuator converts the rotary motion to linear displacement by means of screws/gears to which a knob is attached. One of many 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 stages and lots of more positioning instruments.

Hydraulic type

A hydraulic actuator or cylinder has a hollow cylinder with a piston inside it. Controlled linear displacement of the piston is achieved by pressurizing/de-pressurizing two sides of the piston. Hydraulic automotive jack is the commonest example of a manually operated hydraulic actuator.

Electro-mechanical type

A linear electromechanical actuator is a in which a nut is the primary 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 just like mechanical actuator but an electric motor is used instead of a control knob or handle.

The trendy linear actuators come in several designs and every manufacture has their own proprietary strategies of making actuators.

Ideas of Linear Movement Actuators

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

Variations in Linear Movement Actuators

There are completely different variations in the basic design of linear actuators. Most of the units have general improvements like higher speed, effectivity or load capacity. Nowadays, manufacturers are also focusing more on reducing the scale of those actuators. There’s variety of actuators available in market, which fits particular industrial wants of buyers.

What make linear motion actuators higher in comparison to other motors are their sooner velocity, higher accuracy and greater acceleration. These are used for gantry axes, general purpose position, gantry axes and assembly machines. Linear actuators are specifically meant to be used in adverse conditions and act as replacement in opposition to 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 go for standard as well as custom-made range of actuators depending on their need and budget.