How do you control a linear actuator?

The rocker switch is a great option for basic control of 2-wire linear actuators. You can use either a latching or momentary DPDT switch to move your actuator in and out. Rocker switches are ideal for automotive and heavy equipment applications where 12V power is readily available.

Can you control the speed of a linear actuator?

Speed controllers are mostly found on electrical linear actuators and can either be a stand-alone unit or part of the linear actuator itself. Linear actuator speed control can be regulated without sacrificing the overall force that the linear actuator can bring to the task at hand.

How does a 12V linear actuator work?

So how does a Linear Actuator work? The Linear motion is created by using a screw or Lead-scew as they are more correctly called. This is what convert rotary motion from the electric motor to linear motion. The motors used are either AC or DC motors, most however run on 12v dc, but other voltages are also optional.

Do you need a controller for a linear actuator?

The control and power setup for an actuator depends on the type of motor used and the built in electronics of the actuator. Some more sophisticated (smart) actuators require wiring into a control scheme, or into a bus communication system. …

How fast can linear actuators go?

These actuators can be either ball screw or lead screw driven, with speeds ranging from 0.1 m/sec to more than 1 m/sec. A few manufacturers even offer belt-driven rod-style actuators that can reach speeds to 2.5 m/sec. Ball screw driven rod-style actuators can achieve speeds up to 1.3 m/sec.

How Slow Can a linear actuator move?

Our actuators are built to move loads from 40 kg to 1,500 kg (force from 400 N to 15,000 N), in voltage options of 12 V, 24 V, 36 V and 48 V, with a maximum linear actuator speed of up to 160 millimetres per second (mm/s).

Which is an example of linear actuator?

Some mechanical linear actuators only pull, such as hoists, chain drive and belt drives. Others only push (such as a cam actuator). Pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, or lead screws can be designed to generate force in both directions. A jackscrew or car jack is a familiar mechanical actuator.

Why are linear actuators so expensive?

A linear actuator has on and off phases. When a linear actuator is working, it uses energy to move the load and due to inevitable overheating, it has to stop for some time. So, the less time your linear actuator has to take rest, the more expensive it will be.

What are the main types of linear actuators?

push-or-pull movement.

What is ball screw thread?

A ball screw is a mechanical linear actuator that translates rotational motion to linear motion with little friction. A threaded shaft provides a helical raceway for ball bearings which act as a precision screw. As well as being able to apply or withstand high thrust loads, they can do so with minimum internal friction.

What is a mechanical screw actuator?

Mechanical actuators typically convert rotary motion of a control knob or handle into linear displacement via screws and/or gears to which the knob or handle is attached. A jackscrew or car jack is a familiar mechanical actuator. Another family of actuators are based on the segmented spindle.