Thursday, April 26, 2012

Linear Actuators Assist in Automation

To control a mechanism or system, a mechanical device known as actuator is used. It is operated by an energy source like hydraulic fluid pressure, electric current or pneumatic pressure and converting that energy into some kind of motion. Whereas a linear actuator is the type of actuator that when driven by a non-linear motion, creates linear motion (as compared to rotary motion, e.g. of an electric motor). The best ways of achieving Mechanical and hydraulic actuation are hydraulic and linear actuators. To be precise it is a mechanical device that creates force and motion, from a given energy source, in a linear manner, as compared to rotationally like an electric motor.

They modulate control valves, move work tables on industrial machines, move printer and scanner heads back and forth on computer equipment and drive material handling equipment and robotics. They drive lifts and shovels on construction equipment and provide the oscillatory motion of audio loudspeakers. The magical machines are powered by 12 or 24 volt power sources. A power adapter, car or marine battery can be connected to an actuator with ease. These instruments are popular in many fields such as medical equipment, furniture, consumer products, hobby design and any other products where automation is needed.
Conversion of rotary motion into linear motion is the operational basis of Mechanical linear actuators. A few simple types of mechanism generally get the conversion accomplished.

The DC linear actuators can be combined with control boxes, rocker switches and mounting brackets and the control box will enable you to connect to a regular (AC) home outlet and the mounting brackets are designed specifically for mounting our PA-02 actuators. It takes less than five minutes to set up the control boxes and operate it. Every control box comes with a remote to control the dc mode of the instrument's movement or a foot pedal can be purchased instead.

Most of the linear actuator designs functions on a simple basic principle. The principle is guided by the character of an incline plane. A lead screw threads act as a prolonged ramp that allows a small rotational force to be operated over a long distance to gain movement of a heavy load over a short distance.
Some of the combination of the instrument may be:
Force Speed
120 lbs 1.50 inches per second
160 lbs 1.18 inches per second
250 lbs 0.98 inches per second
330 lbs 0.63 inches per second


Progressive Automations is a popular supplier of the largest on-line selection of small to mid size linear actuators. It provides a large variety of competitively priced linear actuators in different sizes, force and speed.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Linear Actuators - Useful Factors to Consider

Selection of hydraulic, pneumatic and electric devices is dependent on the requirement of applications. And one is needed to check the efficiency of motion-based devices which they need to purchase. Usually, linear actuators are easy to mount and need no pipework. And some factors are there which if considered can help one to analyze the performance of the devices. Factors which will be discussed in this article are - linear speed, stroke, push/pull force, service factor, critical speeds and buckling limits.

Linear speed
Either the devices are large or small in sizes; they come with specific linear speed. Ball screw based actuators do not come with critical speeds. As per need and applications, you ca n use the device coming with different linear speed to move or lift anything.

Stroke The maximum possible displacement of actuator, typically in negative or positive excursions from certain central null position is referred as the stroke. And ±1 to ±10 micrometres are the range up to which the stroke can be measured.

Free actuator stroke is known to limit the amplitude of corrected wavefront. Big-time performance can be expected from short stroke actuators. Stroke is measure in mm and can be ranged from 120 mm to 1560 mm depending upon the application for which the device has been designed.

Push/pull force Actuators convert rotary motion into linear displacement with the help of gears and screws. And push/pull force is the factor that defines the performance of the device up to a large extent. And the push/pull force explains the power, capability and expected performance of the device for the desired application. Linear actuator, 20*15*13mm comes with the push/pull force of 10-270g.

Service factor The service factor is the factor which describes the measurement of periodically overload capacity with which the actuators can work without damage or overload. Individuals should know that the linear actuator that comes with service factor i.e. SF is expected to come with reduced life as compared to devices that are operating at rated nameplate horsepower.

Buckling limits The sudden failure of the device when subjected to high compressive stress is called as buckling limits of the linear actuators. Moreover, the failure can be occurred due to elastic instability. Complete loss of load-carrying capacity of linear actuators can make one to suffer. Thus, one needs to check this factor seriously.
From above discussions, it can be said that if these factors are considered, one would be able to get high-performance based linear actuators without any hassle.


It's a nice way to get desired size and quantity of linear actuators through online shops. And Progressive Automations have been serving individuals in this regard in the US and Canada. Customization of products is also possible with this online shop.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Why Linear Actuators Are Essential for Business Growth

What is a linear actuator? What are its diverse facets and benefits?

The counters to the above indicated questions would not differ based on the perception of diverse organizations and would lie in the minds of those who have been expansively exploiting and implementing the various techniques of a device that is known as "linear actuator." Various conglomerates have been dynamically reaping the benefits of what is known as a linear actuator. The operative use of such mechanisms paves the right track for any specific business to grow and provide an opportunity to have that competitive edge over its contenders.

An actuator has become nowadays an imperative part of every industry because of the reason that it is so adaptable and flexible. Nevertheless, they can be intricate in their simplest form. It is a mechanical device that is employed for the purpose of controlling a system or mechanism and is driven by an energy source like electric current, pneumatic pressure or hydraulic fluid pressure and transmuting that energy into some kind of motion. You should be cognizant of the fact that you also get what are known as rotary actuators other than linear actuators. They are too operated in almost every industry and can be complex at the same time. For instance, your car's windscreen wiper system is known as the mini rotary actuator.

12V electric linear actuators offer accurate movement in circumstances where space is restricted, and where daintier payloads are used. You can realize the true power of the 12V linear actuators lies in its ability to provide vigorous results while functioning on batter power.

A linear actuator is an easy-to-use and adroit device that has been brought in the market in order to make work stress-free and unpretentious in various fields. Irrespective of the type of fields, you can efficiently make use of such a magnificent device for hobby design, furniture, medical equipment, consumer products, engineering industry or any other related area, they are bound to make your much simpler and unproblematic. It is evident that whenever there is a requirement of automation, this device is zealously used.
Such actuators have been used in diverse applications that exist on this planet. They are basic building blocks as manufacturing automation paraphernalia. Hydraulic power for a linear actuator is a judicious choice if the application is in need of great force to execute the required tasks. They are one of the most sought after tools and their role comes into effect when there is a need to maneuver an instrument or a structure.

Progressive Automations is a leading name and is an on-line wholesaler of linear actuators and lifting columns and caters to various needs of the consumers in the United States and Canada. It offers to its consumers a diverse variety of cost-effective linear actuators in terms of speed, size and force.

Monday, April 23, 2012

Essential Qualities Of An Electric Valve Actuator

So your electric valve actuator has seen better days. Maybe you've had it for a quite a long time and it is now due for replacement. To determine your requirements always ensure that you are selecting the right model that would fit your HVAC system. This would ensure that the actuator that you would be getting would be a perfect fit that would ensure that your HVAC system is running on a consistent and efficient basis.

There are several things that you need to look into when buying an actuator. The first thing that you should most sensibly do is to check for the part number to know whether the actuator you got could be fitted with a compatible system.

Standards and Other Requirements
The International Standards Organization provides for the standard specification for electric valve actuators. If the manufacturer states that the actuator is industry compliant then it must provide for the ISO number or standard that it complies with.

Another thing to look into when looking for good and high quality actuators is a fail safe function. These are usually incorporated in order to ensure that even when the device malfunctions, the actuator would have a mode that would compensate for this.

The casing should also be sturdy and if possible weather and moisture proof. Since the casing houses the motor, and performs in conditions that have high moisture, protecting its electrical parts should be a foremost consideration. Leakages and short circuits can occur should moisture come inside the housing.

Wiring
The beautiful thing about Honeywell actuators is that they provide consistent wiring. Their whole line of actuators was built on the same principle of uniformity and standard to ensure that they are easily serviceable by technicians. Conforming to a standard wiring system also prevent accidents and increases the safety of the mechanism.

It is highly inadvisable to make use of custom wiring for the actuator. If possible, always comply and follow the diagram of the wiring system provided. Incorrect wiring could lead to electrical faults that are very dangerous.

Heavy Duty or Light Duty
To save on costs, also determine whether the actuator is for heavy duty or for light duty usage. Honeywell's Herculine series was built with heavy duty application in mind while the Honeywell actuators modutrol is intended for light duty purposes.

The performance difference would significantly affect the efficiency of your HVAC system so be sure to select the appropriate one for your needs.

Protection
Another important electric valve actuator feature is protection from overloading. All aspects on usability should focus on the vital requirement for safety. Remember that these valves control the flow of materials that could pose a serious risk not only to the equipment itself but also to your property and personal safety as well.

To say that Honeywell's line of actuators is extensive and quite expansive is an understatement. You have a whole line of choices ranging from hydraulic, solenoid, linear, mechanical, fan coil, motorized and others. Be sure to consult your HVAC service to know which one you need.


Choose from a vast inventory of an electric valve actuator and see which one suits your requirements. Getting your actuator from a reliable source will also help you in selecting the best one. For more information, please visit hvaccontrolparts.com

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Types of Linear Actuators and Their Unique Applications

Today, linear actuators find wide-spread applications in different tasks. It can be used in multiple applications such as solar electronic consumer items, commercial satellites, health and medical equipment, lawn and garden applications, agricultural, food preparation devices etc. Basically, linear actuators create motion in a straight (linear) line. This is in contrast to the circular motion that is created by the typical electric motor. For instance, the ejection system in a DVD player needs to make use of a linear actuators.

There are different types of linear actuators that are typically offered by manufacturers. Let's take a look at some of the different series in actuators:

• Ball screw actuators: These actuators combine a ball-screw with a DC motor gearbox. This linear drive system is ready for installation and can be used for several industrial, medical and agricultural applications.

• Acme screw actuators: As opposed to the ball screw actuators, these actuators combine an acme screw with the DC motor gearbox. These are also ready to install, and they are highly preferred when a rugged and reliable performance is expected. These linear actuators are also suitable for applications including but not limited to solar tracking, ventilation, agriculture, medical, ATV, lawn and garden etc.

• Worm drive actuators: These also come equipped with an acme screw. You would typically find them being used in lift chairs, medical and dental equipment, mobility and fitness products etc. These can be chosen with or without their self-control and power supply systems, which are UL approved.

• VSJ series: These are very practical actuators that are available with an acme screw in either AC or DC versions. For instance, they can be found in treadmills, floor cleaning equipment, home health care equipment and several other industrial machines.

• VI series: Such actuators can be chosen in acme or ball screw varieties. They offer exceeding versatility making them suitable for different operations relating to medical equipment, lawn and garden equipment, agricultural and ATVs. They can be bought in AC or DC versions depending on specific requirements.

• VMD series: These actuators are very compact and hence are very useful in certain food preparation devices. In short, they are ideal for light load applications. In addition, they are also used in office and automotive applications.

Apart from the above mentioned types of Linear Actuators, there are chances that industries and OEMs might need something extra. In such a case, customization is the best option. You can either send in a fresh design or idea to your chosen manufacturer or suggest modifications to an existing model. Customization of linear actuators goes a long way in increasing your overall operational efficiency.


Being a professional Technical Engineer I am always writing articles about the latest technology used in industrial usage has been my forte over the last few years. Follow my write ups to know more about the latest technologies in mechanical industry. This fall Linear Actuators, DC Actuators, Stepper Motor Actuator are very much in demand among the mechanical industries across the world. Keep yourself updated on these products exclusively from USA.

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Basics of Linear Actuators

A linear actuator is a part of motion control systems. Various forms of energy like mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic are used for running these actuators. Linear motion actuators find maximum usage in factory automation and robotics.

There are various forms of energy that run actuators. These forms of energy include, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical and electrical. Linear actuators are used a lot in robotics and factory automation.

Linear motion actuator is used for converting rotational motion into linear motion. There are different types of motors like DC brush, stepper and induction motors that can be used as linear actuators. Usage of these motors varies according to the requirement of the application and the load capacity of the actuator.

For example, if a linear actuator is using integral horsepower AC induction motor, it can be used to convert the motion of large valves in refineries. Because, in such cases high speed and force are more important that the move resolution and accuracy of the actuator.

Principle of operation is the basic concept behind design of linear servo actuators. Most of the electro-magnetic actuators come with lead screw and lead nut; whereas, others come with a ball nut and screw. In both the cases, screw is either connected to manual control knob or to the motor directly or via series of gears.

Some of the lead screws come with multiple starts, which mean many threads alternating on the single shaft. This makes more space for adjustment between screw and thread pitch that defines the load carrying capacity and extension speed of the motor.

Because of extreme competition, manufacturers are making integrated actuators that are efficient, simple and also improve the over functionality.

What make linear actuators better in comparison to other motors are their faster speed, higher accuracy and greater acceleration. These are used for gantry axes, general purpose position, gantry axes and assembly machines. Linear stages are specially meant to be used in adverse conditions and act as replacement against other hazardous actuators for performing the job.

Other than linear actuators, DC actuators are also used for performing similar applications. These run smoothly and don't produce much noise. Many DC actuators available in the market are water proof. Buyers can opt for standard as well as customized range of actuators depending on their need and budget.
Linear actuators come in different shapes and sizes, so that they can be used for anything in just every industry.


IntelLiDrives, Inc. manufactures linear actuators, rotary tables and XY systems.
For more information visit http://www.intellidrives.com

Friday, April 20, 2012

Linear Actuators for Optimum Solutions in the Housing and Automobile Industry

You have often heard about the uses of actuators across different types of industries. But apart from heavy duty industrial use, linear actuators are also used in many other applications such as satellites, construction industry, housing industry, recreational vehicles and myriad other uses. In this article, we shall take a look at how these actuators have played a crucial role in making processes faster and more efficient because of their presence in these industries.

Satellites
For several years, linear actuators have been used in conjunction with satellites-be it home use satellites that people install on the roof of their home, or the bigger satellite signal transmission centers. They are reliable and also easy to use in this particular application. These actuators usually have built in limit switches for better efficiency. Many of these actuators are also fitted with sensors for better quality satellite beam reception. While a major part of the body of the actuator is made of metal, these actuators come with a plastic pilot guide, which helps in preventing metal to metal contact between the tubes. Do check if you actuator for satellite use has specially made water drains and vents to protect it in sub zero temperatures.

Housing
The linear actuators to be used in this sector come equipped with a coupler and jack system. They can be ordered as 50-60 degree units. If you have heavy-duty requirements, then you can order actuator models to suit the same. Their frame height can also be adjusted for use in different construction applications. Most homes today are heavy and hence, actuators that are needed for such homes should be equipped with a heavy duty jack. Ideally, the actuators to be used in this sector should be FEMA approved so that you can be sure about their safety and reliability. If you actuator is corrosion protected without the use of paint, it will help reduce the chances of smoke and fumes during welding.

Automobiles
Linear Actuators are often combined with gear boxes to give you a very smooth and extremely easy-to-use manual actuation set-up. Multiple units can be interconnected in this case and they, in turn can be used to drive more than one actuator. This set-up is just perfect when it comes to performing tasks such as opening multiple windows, or for greenhouses and even when it comes to climate control-based storage meant for vegetables or live stock. Ideally, these actuators should also have adapters that are available to mount and should have mounting holes on the dimension of each of its surface. In such applications, these actuators are used in combination with DC gear motor.

Apart from this, linear actuators can also be used for recreation vehicles and can be combined with different gear boxes for maximum versatility. You can run a search on the internet to find leading manufacturers of these actuators to suit all your needs.


Venture provides various types of DC powered Linear Actuators, Stepper Motor Actuator, DC Gear Motor, DC Actuators for industrial applications. If you want to know more about Actuators reach us at http://www.venturemfgco.com

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Employing The Methods Of Linear Actuators For Business Evolution

There are innumerable organizations that have been realizing the miscellaneous practices of linear actuators so that they can outshine their contenders.

What is a linear actuator? What are its assorted aspects and pluses?

There can be numerous responses to the above stated questions but those who have been dynamically practicing the procedures of such pliable devices would be well-versed with the basic facts of linear actuators. In fact, they are so flexible and adaptable that none of the organizations can ponder over to survive the global race without their reliable use. It would not be void to say that every conglomerate is on the run to prove its worth as there exists an abrupt competition among the vertical segments. The indispensable use of such bendable mechanisms has paved the right path for any specific business to nurture and provides a prospect to attain a viable over its contenders. There are various types of actuators that are available in the global market and on which you can get a hands-on knowledge and they are easily accessible in today's cut-throat market.

An actuator is one of the most admirable tools that have become an obligatory need for almost every industry because of the reason they are pliable and user-friendly. The role of such a device comes into play when there is a need to maneuver a structure or a mechanism. In fact, there are diverse methods available to us that we can use in order to monitor the movement of such a crucial tool like pneumatic pressure or hydraulic fluid pressure so on and so forth. Then they transform the energy into some kind of motion.

There are heterogeneous types of actuators that create their own presence felt among the challengers and vigorously help the organizations to climb the ladder of success in the shortest possible time. To commence with, if we throw some light on the diverse facets of "mechanical actuators", you would get to know how crucial they are for a specific business to be judicious in the longer run. The role of such gadgets is to transform the rotary motion of a control knob or handle into linear transposition with the help of gears and/or screws to which the knob is fastened. A very familiar example of mechanical actuator is car-jack or jack-screw. Nonetheless, "hydraulic actuators, pneumatic actuators, piezoelectric actuators and electro-mechanical actuators" are some of the most prominent actuators that have made their mark in almost every field and other purposes.


Progressive Automations is a North American linear actuators producer and wholesaler that offers a wide range of actuators, linear actuators, DC actuators, etc. on its online store.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Ensuring Performance of Electric Linear Actuators

Electric actuators come with benefits like simple to use and offer more energy-efficient power transmission. This may not surprise you to hear that the actuators are found in commercial kitchen equipment, high-voltage switch gears, agriculture machinery, train doors, bus doors and also in medical machinery.

Adding to it, areas where compactness, safety, comfort and low noise are the goals, electric linear actuators can be easily seen there. This article will deal why we need to go for reviewing of the products before the purchase? How it helps in ensuring the performance of such actuators in desired field?

Unique requirements
As discussed above that the actuators have been getting used in various industrial areas and this is the fact that each application has specific and unique requirements. This is the reason why we need to check the performance and features of product before the purchase.

System's design
Actuators meant for different applications are manufactured by considering the needs and purpose of systems in the particular field. It can also be said that the design and manufacturing process varies from application to application. Thus, considering unique requirements, checking design of the systems will help a lot to decide whether the system is worth to purchase for the application or not.

Key parameters
There are certain key parameters to select the actuation system. Such parameters ultimately play an effective role in ensuring the system operation. So, along with system design, necessary capabilities are also required to be verified before taking final decision of the purchase.

Essential qualities
Whatever be the size of electric linear actuators is, they all are designed and manufactured to offer features like precision, accuracy, efficiency and controlling movement capabilities. Being considered as advanced technology based and maintenance-free alternatives to pneumatic actuation systems, electric actuators serve practically and efficiently all over.

Load, speed and strokes
As per the application, the actuators come with different speed; strokes and capacity to bear load.Modern actuators come with the capacity to handle the load of about 3000 pounds and speed up to 6 inches/second. As far as strokes are concerned, one will find the actuators working with strokes from 2 inches to 60 inches.

Standard components
There are certain standard components of electric actuation systems which one is required to check. Such components include drive screws, front and rear attachments, motors, controls and limit switches. For better results, one can also go for the customization of products. A number of knowledgeable and experienced actuation system suppliers are present in the market to serve us in this regard.

Hence, from the above discussions, it can be said that after checking these aspects, one will be able to get high performance based electric linear actuators.


Progressive Automations are the manufacturer and distributor of a diverse range of electric linear actuators in the US and Canadian region.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Linear Actuator and Its Types

A linear actuator is a machine or assembly of various tools that creates linear force and motion using an externally applied energy source. They are primary blocks for shaping live wire automation equipment. The external energy source may be as varied as mechanical, hydraulic, Pneumatic, Piezoelectric and Electro-mechanical. Mechanical actuators convert rotary motion of a general or stub acme screw thread or worm gear into linear movement through generating mechanical force. An ideal example is an automobile jack or scissor jack that is of great utility. Mechanical linear actuators also assist to arrange lasers and optical devices, as well as the sequence of rotary stages, linear stages, and other positioning instrumentation. There are another advanced category of linear actuators with the enhanced power of a digital encoder or a Linear Voltage Displacement Transducer (LVDT) to ensure in accurately positioning the linear actuator for the requisite function.

Hydraulic actuators are also popularly recognized as hydraulic cylinders that generally involve a hollow cylinder with a piston in it. The two ends of the piston are alternately pressurized and de-pressurized to result in controlled accurate linear displacement of the piston. The part connected to the piston also displaces as a result. The linear dislodging is along the axis of the piston or the cylinder only. This model is based on the hydraulics principles. A hydraulic car jack is an example of a manually operated hydraulic actuator.

Pneumatic systems are extensively used in industry, where factories are commonly plumbed with compressed air or other compressed inert gases. This is because a centrally-located and electrically-powered compressor that powers cylinders and other pneumatic devices through solenoid valves is often able to provide motive power in a cheaper, safer, more flexible, and more reliable way than a large number of electric motors and actuators.

There are certain industrial sectors in which factories are usually plumbed with compressed inert gases or compressed air. The principle is accepted as an electrically-powered and centrally-located compressor which powers cylinders and other pneumatic devices by solenoid valves that on most of the occasion are effective in producing motive power that is economical, safer, and more dependable than a large number of electric motors and actuators. Pneumatic actuators also popularly known as pneumatic cylinders resemble hydraulic actuators except for the fact that they use compressed gas to generate pressure instead of any liquid.

Piezoelectricity is the electrical charge which is deposited in solid materials like crystals, a few types of ceramics, and biological elements such as bone, DNA and a variety of proteins in response to applied mechanical strain. Piezoelectricity signifies electricity derived by generating pressure. The Greek terms piezo or piezein which means to squeeze or press, and electric or electron that stands for fossilized tree resin (not sap), with wonderful color and natural organic beauty since Neolithic times, one of the earliest source of electric charge. Piezoelectricity is the direct procurement from the piezoelectric effect. The piezoelectric effect is considered as the linear electromechanical interaction between the mechanical and the electrical state in crystalline materials with no inversion symmetry. The piezoelectric effect is a reversible process in compounds or elements exhibiting the direct piezoelectric effect (the internal generation of electrical charge developing from an applied mechanical force) and also shows the reverse piezoelectric effect (the internal generation of a mechanical force coming out from an applied electrical field).

Electro-mechanical actuators are simple variations of mechanical actuators with the control knob or handle replaced with an electric motor. Rotary motion of the motor generates linear displacement of the actuator. Medical equipment, furniture, consumer products, hobby design and any other products where automation is necessary uses linear actuators. Linear actuators are a boon as far as automation is concerned and its use in applicable functions raises productivity and reduces overall production cost.


Progressive Automations is an amazing on-line wholesaler of linear actuators and lifting columns to consumers in the United States, Canada and the rest of the world. Progressive Automations has in store a large variety of reasonably priced linear actuators in different size, force and speed. Progressive Automations maintains a large inventory on hand in their warehouses in the United States and Canada to support the innumerable orders they receive every day. Progressive Automations also addresses custom orders where it manufactures linear actuators based on your requirements of actuator type, force, stroke size and voltage.

Monday, April 16, 2012

Linear Actuators: Types and Characteristics

A Linear Actuator is different from electric motor because it applies force in a linear way instead of rotationally. The linear motion can be achieved in different ways and a linear actuator is one of the devices that can covert rotational motion to linear motion.

Mechanical type
A mechanical actuator converts the rotary motion to linear displacement through screws/gears to which a knob is attached. One of the renowned examples of mechanical actuator is a jackscrew or car jack. Mechanical actuator is used in lasers and optics for manipulating the position of mirror mounts, linear stages and many more positioning instruments.

Hydraulic type
A hydraulic actuator or cylinder has a hollow cylinder with a piston inside it. Controlled linear displacement of the piston is achieved by pressurizing/de-pressurizing two sides of the piston. Hydraulic car jack is the most common example of a manually operated hydraulic actuator.

Electro-mechanical type
A linear electromechanical actuator is a in which a nut is the main part of the motor. The lead screw of the actuator doesn't rotate and the lead nut is rotated by the motor. It is similar to mechanical actuator but an electric motor is used instead of a control knob or handle.
The modern linear actuators come in different designs and every manufacture has their own proprietary methods of making actuators.

Principles of Linear Motion Actuators
The basic operation principle of linear motion actuators is an inclined plane. The lead screw has threads, which act as ramp and allow small rotational force that can be used over long distance for achieving the movement of large load within a shorter distance.

Variations in Linear Motion Actuators
There are different variations in the basic design of linear actuators. Most of the devices have general improvements like higher speed, efficiency or load capacity. Nowadays, manufacturers are also focusing more on reducing the size of these actuators. There is variety of actuators available in market, which fits specific industrial needs of buyers.
What make linear motion actuators better in comparison to other motors are their faster speed, higher accuracy and greater acceleration. These are used for gantry axes, general purpose position, gantry axes and assembly machines. Linear actuators are specially meant to be used in adverse conditions and act as replacement against other hazardous actuators for performing the job.


Other than linear actuators, DC actuators are also used for performing similar applications. These run smoothly and don't produce much noise. Many DC actuators available in the market are water proof. Buyers can opt for standard as well as customized range of actuators depending on their need and budget.
IntelLiDrives, Inc. manufactures linear actuators, rotary tables and XY systems
For more information visit http://www.intellidrives.com

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Linear Actuators Facilitate Precise Motion Control

When it comes to critical motion control applications, the role of linear actuators is indispensable. These machines precisely control the angle, the distance and the repeatability of motion. Right from industrial use to commercial applications to domestic appliances, you will find a linear actuator being used almost everywhere. Since they are such a critical component of varied set-ups, it becomes critical to choose a state-of-the-art manufacturer for your requirements.

Whether it is a commercial actuator, satellite actuator or solar tracking actuator, each of them needs to be at par with global quality standards. A manufacturer who has an established name as a lead in mechanical motion technology should certainly be your preferred choice.

As an OEM or contract manufacturer, it is imperative for you to be closely associated with the sales and technology teams of the linear actuator manufacturer. This helps in building the right prototype and end product. In order to understand the applicability of actuators, let's take a quick look at the varieties of actuators typically offered by a leading industry player:

Commercial DC actuators:
There are two main varieties under this category, such as ball screw actuators and acme screw actuators. These actuators are used for a variety of applications ranging from commercial satellite tracking to agriculture to medical to ATVs. You might even find these actuators being used in dental and fitness products, proving their versatility.

DC actuators:
You could opt for ball screw DC actuators or acme screw DC actuators. The supreme responsiveness of the ball screw movement creates the need for an integrated mechanical or electrical brake to minimize any back-driving potential. On the other hand, the geometry of the acme screw thread is slightly less efficient than the ball screw. However this also means that you don't need to employ an electric or mechanical brake.

Satellite actuators:
The home satellite TVRO industry heavily relies on such actuators. They are preferred because they are user friendly and easy to install, providing long lasting service. You can choose between different types of linear actuators that are suitable for heavy as well as light-weight dishes.

Solar actuators:
With the increasing awareness and preference for renewable energy, the demand for solar actuators has been on the rise. These actuators are built especially to meet the needs of the solar industry and are available as acme screw and ball screw type actuators.

Stepper motor actuator:
These actuators and brush-less DC motors can be chosen as a motor option on certain actuator models. When a superior level of controllable is needed these actuators should be used. DC gear motors should be highly compatible with your chosen model of actuators.

Whether you need linear actuators for commercial, industrial or home-based use, the marketplace offers a wide variety. All you need to do is search for the best manufacturer and make an informed choice.
Being a professional Technical Engineer I am always writing articles about the latest technology used in industrial usage has been my forte over the last few years. Follow my write ups to know more about the latest technologies in mechanical industry. This fall Linear Actuators, DC Actuators, Stepper Motor Actuator are very much in demand among the mechanical industries across the world. Keep yourself updated on these products exclusively from USA.

Saturday, April 14, 2012

How Are Electric Linear Actuators Better Than Manual Actuators?

Many of us take linear actuators to be a synonym for electric actuators or dc motors. But in reality, any device or equipment assisting in the linear motion is called a linear actuator. Linear actuators are widely used in industrial settings and various mechanical systems such as hospital desks, office desks, adjustable levers etc.

But what is important to understand is that there are two types of the linear form of actuators: Manual and Electric. The manual form of actuators help in initiating a linear motion or in its assistance with the effort of the user or manual force; whereas, electric forms are automatic or semi-automatic and do not require any manual assistance. Electric actuators help in reducing the effort required in manual actuators and also perform the task more efficiently.

The electric actuators are the common actuators in use in the industrial sectors. Most industrial application are dependent on electric actuators that have a DC motor that is required to use the electrical energy and convert the same into linear motion energy. They are ideal for lifting light loads and function in tandem with the use of lifting columns, switches, brackets etc. In most industrial set ups and application systems, electric form of actuators are preferred over their manual counterparts, let's find out why and in what respect:

Reduces manual effort
The use of the electric form of actuators reduces manual effort to a considerable extent. One is not required to use extra effort in terms of operating a system or machinery that has actuators operational on electric DC motors. The use of the 12v DC motor in the actuator helps in the conversion of electrical energy into linear motion; hence, reducing the force or strain required to make that motion possible.

Better position control
The use of electric motors in actuators helps in having a better control of position in a mechanical or electrical industrial system. Most linear form of actuators working on electrical mechanism using 12V DC motors, help in easier position control than their manual counterpart. These actuators are available in different strokes as well as different sizes. There is difference in the force applied as well as the size.

Versatile and flexible
Most electric actuators find usage in different types of industrial as well as routine life usage. They may not be as common as the manual form of actuator; however, electric linear actuators are used by different industries and profession in order to improve their efficiency and performance. The properties such as high performance and time-saving aspect of these actuators make them an industry favorite for production and different industrial mechanisms.

Progressive Automations is a North American linear actuators manufacturer and distributor offering a wide range of electric linear actuators, DC actuators, lifting columns etc on its wholesale online store.