Linear Actuators: Types and Characteristics

A Linear Actuator is completely different from electrical motor because it applies drive in a linear way instead of rotationally. The linear motion may be achieved in different ways and a linear actuator is one of the devices that may covert rotational motion to linear motion.

Mechanical type

A mechanical actuator converts the rotary motion to linear displacement by screws/gears to which a knob is attached. One of many renowned examples of mechanical actuator is a jackscrew or car jack. Mechanical actuator is used in lasers and optics for manipulating the position of mirror mounts, linear phases and many 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 sides of the piston. Hydraulic automotive jack is the most common example of a manually operated hydraulic actuator.

Electro-mechanical type

A linear electromechanical actuator is a in which a nut is the main part of the motor. The lead screw of the actuator would not rotate and the lead nut is rotated by the motor. It’s much like mechanical actuator but an electric motor is used instead of a control knob or handle.

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

Rules of Linear Motion 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 long distance for achieving the movement of huge load within a shorter distance.

Variations in Linear Movement Actuators

There are completely different variations within the basic design of linear actuators. A lot of the units have general improvements like higher speed, efficiency or load capacity. Nowadays, manufacturers are additionally focusing more on reducing the scale of those actuators. There is variety of actuators available in market, which fits particular industrial needs of buyers.

What make linear motion actuators higher compared to different motors are their sooner velocity, higher accuracy and higher 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 against other hazardous actuators for performing the job.

Apart from linear actuators, DC actuators are also used for performing comparable applications. These run smoothly and do not produce a lot noise. Many DC actuators available within the market are water proof. Buyers can go for customary as well as personalized range of actuators depending on their want and budget.