Linear actuators are widespread and often found in industrial machinery with heavy performance needs. They allow machinery to perform smooth motions while maintaining a constant level of force and speed without damage to surrounding materials.
Internal Motor
The Linear Actuator motor converts potential energy from the power source into linear motion by converting internal rotary motion into linear displacement of the attached load. The basic components of this motor include a stator, a rotor, and a gap.
Lead Screw
The lead screw is the most critical component of the linear actuator because it transfers motion from the internal motor to the load. The axial position of the lead screw is directly related to the motor’s rotational speed. It can be controlled by various methods, such as pulse width modulation (PWM) or frequency modulation (FM). The length of this curved rail is important because it determines how much force will be required when positioning applications.
Internal Gearing
The lead screw is often used with a series of internally geared reduction transmissions which function as the reduction gears to increase torque and provide smooth acceleration. These devices are usually made of brass and die-cast aluminum, but raw steel can also be used in some applications. This type of gearing is chosen for its simplicity because it requires only one gearing per rotation instead of multiple sets to match the resistance generated by the lead screw rotational speed.
Torque Transmission
The DC electric motors used in these actuators can create quite a bit of torque, but the transmission system determines the ability to position accurately. The torque is transferred through the lead screw into a torque transmission that is usually between gears to provide smooth acceleration at each rotation. These transmissions often contain a series of gears matched with their corresponding rotational speed.
Brake
The linear actuator does not have many moving parts and therefore does not need much lubrication or special lubricants. However, there is a brake system that contains a series of friction pads to eliminate any unwanted rotation. These brakes are often used with applications that need to be able to stop at specific positions on the lead screw elimination backlash problems.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Linear Actuators
Warrant
Before you buy a linear actuator, make sure that it has a proper warrant provided. If a linear actuator breaks down, make sure you can fix it or get it fixed.
Price
When looking for a linear actuator, always consider the product’s price. A great product might be expensive, but it is worth it in the long run, as you can use it for many years.
Speed
While there are many different types of linear actuators on the market, you should choose one that suits your needs and has enough speed to achieve what you want to be done.
Weight
When looking for a linear actuator, always consider the product’s weight. A heavy product might have less speed, but being able to lift heavy material is an advantage.
Application
When looking for a linear actuator, you should consider how you plan to use it. For example, it might be tough to fit when using it to move furniture or other heavy materials, but that does not mean you cannot use it in other areas of your home or workplace.
Pros of Linear Actuators
- Reliability: Actuators do not have many moving parts like a servo and are thus highly efficient, reliable, and easy to repair and operate.
- Construction: Many linear actuators feature advanced designs that ensure tight tolerances and precise alignment.
- Cost–effectiveness: Actuators are cost-effective due to their low maintenance requirements, making them cheap machines.
- Flexibility: The flexibility of actuators means that they can accommodate the types of loads you want to move with the standard features afforded by linear motion. Modern linear actuators can lift heavy loads, such as steel beams, which helps save on labor costs.
- Size: Many linear actuators do not have big footprints so they can be easily integrated into small spaces.
- Simplicity: Linear actuators are designed with little to no moving parts, which makes them simple to operate and maintain.
The Bottom Line
The market for linear actuators has been growing with the increased development in robotics and automation. Also, with the rising demand for automation in commercial and industrial sectors, these actuators are being used more frequently in factories to replace human labor.
