Electric Linear Actuators- Major Advancements

Nobody can deny the fact that quick technological changes and advancements in safety, environmental and ergonomic requirements have resulted in a continuous rise in the options and abilities available in motion control systems.  The same statement applies for the electric linear actuators as well. The devices manufactured recently are known for offering more power as compared to the earlier versions. There have been advancements in load capacities, force, speed, ruggedness, control, duty cycle and plenty of other areas.

Let us discuss about these advances in detail:

Technical specifications

The latest electric linear actuators are extremely fast, strong and rugged. Most of them can be used for lifting loads of 2200 lb and some are capable of lifting more. Latest designs, durable components and advancements in the manufacturing techniques have made it possible for the developers to enhance the load capabilities of each device. Thus, for applications that demand high load capacities, electric linear actuators serve as the best alternative to hydraulics. Today, most of these devices provide longer travel distances of around 48 to 60 in. As far as the power input option is concerned, it was limited to only 12 V and 24 Vdc in the former versions. But latest models can use 36 V and even 48 Vdc power.

Performance specification

Speed is one of the major requirements in virtually all applications. An electric linear actuator is capable enough to provide a speed of six inches per second or even more. Also, the newer versions are composed of corrosion resistant and durable materials. This makes them an ideal choice for rugged environments. Today these are found in agriculture applications, combine harvesters, fertilizer spreaders, food processing, engineering industry, medical industry, etc.  Strong designs are capable of resisting vibration, hot and cold temperatures, shocks, etc. and offer excellent performance.  

Control Specifications

The level of complexity of the control systems of electric linear actuators is different. It ranges from a simple toggle to a complicated system with plenty of actuators in a factory automation setting.

These are some of the latest advancements made in these devices. Thus, it can be concluded from the above discussion that the devices are capable of performing well in a variety of domains.

Safety factor

Safety is one of the key concerns in all applications. These devices are completely safe to use. Once power is removed, the device stops. The integral braking systems lock the load and it does not drift.

About the Author

Progressive Automations is an online store that provides customers with different kinds of electric linear actuators, dc actuators, 12 volt linear actuators etc in the USA.