A linear actuator is a device that transforms rotational motion into a linear motion that lifts, lowers, slides, or tilts machinery or materials. In addition to being effective and maintenance-free, it offers clean, safe, and powerful motion control. Linear actuators are an inexpensive alternative for moving loads in a linear motion.
Types of Linear Actuators
The two types of linear actuators are:
- Hydraulics
- Electric
Hydraulic Actuators
These actuators are oil-powered. The fluid creates pressure that propels the cylinders for the actuator to work. They are suitable for environments where high force is needed, such as cranes, excavators, mixers, and more, and apply customization to any weight.
Electric Actuators
These are motor-driven, powering the lead screw fitted with a nut running up and down the thread. The motion converts the rotary deliberation into linear motion. It offers ultimate precision control of position, speed, acceleration, and deceleration. Electric actuators are fast and require less maintenance, making them a favorable choice.
Applications of Actuators
Linear actuators play different roles in several industries. Some of the most engaging uses of actuators are the following:
1. Space Exploration
The linear actuator system in NASA’s framework to dock in the international space station plays a significant role. It is vital in performing the functions of the Critical Capture docking aspect. Micro linear actuators are also effective in keeping down the weight. They perform multiple functions, such as opening and closing valves and securing locking systems.
2. Agricultural Industry
Food is a sensitive product. While hydraulics is usual in powering agricultural equipment, machinery that comes into direct contact with food requires more refinement. The large electric linear actuator is smooth and clean without any leaks. They can withstand extreme weather conditions. They also do not react with pesticides and fertilizers found in grains.
Linear actuators in tractors reduce labor by adjusting steering wheels and toggling ventilation. The mechanisms of linear actuators employed in seed drills and combine harvesters keep the agricultural industry running.
3. Operations of Solar Panels
Solar panels are a trending source of power. Their popularity has led to the employment of linear actuators to improve efficiency. Electric linear actuators facilitate the solar panels to track the sun, maximizing their absorption of sunlight. In addition, their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions keeps them running through the seasons.
4. Propel Cutting Equipment
Propel cutting predominantly features in most manufacturing industries. Linear actuators facilitate glass, paper, carpet, and metal cutting. They enable the raising and lowering of cutting blades to ensure precision and clean straight lines or jigsaw cuts. In addition, their smooth surfaces reduce the amount of force required to cut.
5. Window Automation
Linear actuators provide the simple service of conveniently closing and opening a window or heavy-duty doors. The push-rod motor contracts or extends to open or shut a window. Shutters, skylights, casement windows, and top or bottom hung windows employ the aid of actuators to serve their purpose.
6. Robotics
Robots employ the help of linear actuators to make any movement. Scotch yokes and pneumatic muscles are among the usual actuators in robot movement. The gripping system of robot arms works because of the actuators. It does not require any fluids to operate and is more reliable in the robotic industry.
7. Valve Operation
In contrast to manual manipulation of items, linear valve actuators convert energy into motion. Pistons and diaphragms are the two different types of valve actuators. A diaphragm actuator is the most effective in low-pressure settings. However, a piston actuator may go farther than a diaphragm actuator and can endure high pressure.
Bottom Line
From space exploration to window opening, linear actuators have unlimited use. The market’s different types of linear actuators serve best in different environments. There is no one best type of actuator. Their effectiveness depends on the kind of work you want to undertake. For food and processing industries, electric linear actuators are the best to preserve the safety of the food. However, in high-pressure environments, hydraulic actuators will serve the purpose best.
