Define your priorities when choosing an industrial actuator – budget or quality, correspondence with certain operating requirements or multipurposeness – Photo Source

Professional linear motion systems are used in different areas. However, a wide choice of industrial actuators makes it difficult for customers to choose the right item, especially, when you haven’t got the faintest idea of which aspects and parameters to consider. Our insightful guide should help you understand the gist of selecting proper industrial actuators for your particular purposes by highlighting some pro tips. Namely, make sure to consider the following characteristics:

Load Capacity

The load capacity is of prime importance and should depend on the type of object(s) your actuator is to move, lift, etc. There are mini actuator models with a 6-7 kg force capacity and then there are models for handling heavy loads of up to almost a ton. Thus, dynamic loads and thrust are the initial parameters you should take heed of.

Precision

Packaging machinery, for instance, needs a higher level of precision. It demands maximum positioning repeatability of no more than 0.5mm. This allows for a perfectly smooth, closely controllable manufacture and such precision is usually achieved with the help of belt driven and pinion actuators. These types guarantee steady and repeatable movements. In case you need to achieve a higher level of precision, you can apply a linear encoder.

Speed

It is another crucial factor, which should always be considered. Screw-type actuators are considered to be very effective components, but when they are used at a very high speed, they can experience screw whip. As a result, it may cause vibration. If you see that the general speed is too high, it is much better to opt for a belt-drive actuator.

Repeatability

You should keep in mind that every application has a certain requirement for repeatability. So, you have to make the right choice to avoid some nasty issues in the future work of an actuator. For example, if you choose screw-type actuators, their repeatability is ±0.0001 to ±0.003. A belt drive actuator delivers repeatability of ±0.002 to ±0.010.

Screw-type actuators also perform much better as compared to belt drive ones.

Environment

Basic characteristics of your actuator purchase must fit the operating environment where it will be used. For instance, lead-screw actuators are no fit for clean-room environments. You should also bear in mind that dirty environments can damage your actuator. In this case, it is better to opt for rod-style actuators.

Then there’s also the available space – make sure your actuator is of an optimal size.

Budget

The retail choice is huge nowadays and pricing always matters. The most economical items are belt-drive actuators. The most expensive ones are linear motors.

Summary

Ultimately, you should define your priorities – budget or quality, correspondence with certain operating requirements or multipurposeness. And a thorough consideration of all the mentioned aspects when buying an industrial actuator for your project will help you get a proper tool for your particular needs. To choose from a wide range of high-quality models at reasonable prices, check out the assortment of industrial actuators and motion tools of other kinds available at Progressive Automations.

This content is a joint venture between our publication and our partner. We do not endorse any product or service in the article.