Different Types Of Linear Actuators

By Author: Sylvia Grant
Total Articles: 2
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Did you know that there is an essential part that computers, cranes and industrial machines all have in common? That part is motors.

The basic function of motors is to provide speed or torque for different types of motions like circular, horizontal, and linear. For the last, a special type of motor, known as the linear actuator, is used. It is a device that provides linear motion, by converting nonlinear energy. And for this, it uses various types of energy sources like motor fluids, air pressure, and thermal expansion. Depending on the application and power availability, there are many types of this device, like devices used for door openers, precision process controllers, and heavy-duty machine actuators. Listed below are the three main types of this device.

Rotary Motion

Just like other motors, this one has numerous applications, ranging from DVD tray openers to giant hydraulic rams. In most cases, rotary motion or pressurized fluid inputs are used to create ...
... the linear motion. Sometimes, even wax ones are used. The rotary source actuator normally uses an electric motor for the force or energy required. Using cams or lead screws, the rotational torque of the electric motor is converted into straight force.

Cam Actuator

Another type for straight-line motion is the cam actuator. It uses a peculiar cam, which is attached to the actuator arm with many strong linkages. When the cam turns, the actuator arm moves in a straight line along with it. However, unlike a rodless actuator, this one does not have a large range of motion. However, it offers accurate inputs and outputs. Often used in electronic stepper motors, it allows better advancement control and much-needed precision for process control.

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Actuators

By using pressurized gas or liquid in an electric cylinder, this device creates linear motion. It provides the best kind of output potential, as it consists of a piston contained in a sealed tube with valves at either end. This, in turn, is connected with an actuator rod, which connects one end of the tube. A source of gas or liquid that is pressurized, usually air or hydraulic oil, is put into the cylinder through the valves. According to the fuel used, the forward or backward motion is provided.