Linear Actuators: Types and Traits

A Linear Actuator is completely 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 one of the units that can covert rotational motion to linear motion.

Mechanical type

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

Hydraulic type

A hydraulic actuator or cylinder has a hole cylinder with a piston inside it. Controlled 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 principle 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 however an electric motor is used instead of a management knob or handle.

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

Principles of Linear Motion Actuators

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

Variations in Linear Movement Actuators

There are completely different variations in the primary design of linear actuators. Many of the gadgets have general improvements like higher speed, efficiency or load capacity. Nowadays, producers are additionally focusing more on reducing the scale of those actuators. There is variety of actuators available in market, which fits particular industrial wants of buyers.

What make linear motion actuators higher in comparison to different motors are their quicker speed, higher accuracy and better acceleration. These are used for gantry axes, general objective position, gantry axes and assembly machines. Linear actuators are specifically meant to be used in adverse conditions and act as replacement against other hazardous actuators for performing the job.

Aside from linear actuators, DC actuators are also used for performing related applications. These run smoothly and don’t produce a lot noise. Many DC actuators available in the market are water proof. Buyers can opt for normal as well as personalized range of actuators depending on their need and budget.