Considerations When Choosing 12v Linear Actuators

Power

Power should be the primary consideration when creating a linear actuator. For mechanical power to be released, power is necessary. The amount of mechanical power required depends on the force or load that needs to be moved. Manufacturers will provide data on the force (F), speed (V), and current draw, to help determine the actuator's load.

Duty cycle

The duty cycle controls the frequency and duration of the actuator's operation. The duty cycle is dictated by the actuator’s temperature while in motion because heat causes power to be lost. Following the duty cycle recommendations can help avoid motor overheating and actuator component damage. Actuators' duty cycles vary since not all of them are made the same way. A motor’s duty cycle is impacted by age, loading characteristics, and ambient temperature.

Types of Linear Actuators

Electromechanical

mechanical or electromechanical linear actuators are designed to translate rotating motion into linear motion. They carry out the conversion using one of the standard linear actuator screws, wheel, handle, or cam. Mechanical linear actuators are powered by an AC or DC motor. Mechanical linear actuators of the screw type use a ball screw, roller screw, or other screw designs. A rotating screw-type shaft is driven straight ahead. A stator assembly turns the shaft in the desired direction.

Leadscrew

Lead screw linear actuators are designed to generate linear motion from rotary motor rotation. The rolled thread structure of a lead screw actuator offers exceptional strength and effectiveness. The lead screw actuator comprises a threaded rod and an associated nut. The nut of a lead screw actuator must be made of lubricated metal or low-friction materials. The motor can rotate the rod or the nut by installing them directly and connecting them with gears, a belt, or both.

Pneumatic linear actuator

Pneumatic linear actuators move a piston using air pressure. A cylinder-shaped piston that is big enough to form a tight seal against cylinder walls is utilized in pneumatic linear actuators. When pressurized air reaches the cylinder housing, the piston must rise. The size of the piston and the pressure of compressed gas dictate the force applied in a pneumatic linear actuator.

Hydraulic linear actuators

Hydraulic linear actuators share the same parts as hydraulic motors, including a cylinder, a piston, and an incompressible liquid that applies uneven pressure to the piston. Applications that need the most mechanical energy from linear actuators often use hydraulic linear actuators when a lot of force is needed. For example, hydraulic linear actuators are used in machines that lift tons of material.

Advantages of 12v Linear Actuators

Cost Saving

Despite being more expensive than other types, 12-volt linear actuators need less maintenance. In contrast to their hydraulic cousins, they don't require hydraulic fluid change, leak repairs, or as many systems maintenance-intensive components. Instead, users will only require semi-annual cable replacement and bearing lubrication.

Simple Installation

Components for volt DC actuators are significantly less expensive than those for hydraulic and pneumatic actuators. In addition, the systems are simple to install, which results in cost savings during OEM assembly. These systems are simple to adjust for various purposes.

Greater Productivity

Due to the range of analog and digital feedback possibilities, 12-volt linear actuators provide better control over machine operations than hydraulic and pneumatic systems. The teach and repeat positions are available with a variety of limit switches. Users can link directly with programmable controllers using low-voltage switching methods. Variable speed control can be achieved by modulating the pulse width. Since they are controlled, 12-volt linear actuators provide remarkable accuracy and repeatability. Users can link and even automate various processes with the help of these modules.

Choosing the Right 12V Linear Actuator Supplier

To ensure you have the most beneficial outcome when purchasing 12V linear actuators from a 12V linear actuator supplier, it is important to compare several companies using our directory of 12V linear actuator suppliers. Each 12V linear actuator supplier has a business profile page highlighting their areas of experience and capabilities, along with a contact form to directly communicate with the supplier for more information or request a quote. Review each 12V linear actuator business website using our patented website previewer to quickly learn what each company specializes in. Then, use our simple RFQ form to contact multiple 12V linear actuator companies with the same form.