Art - Linear Actuator (4)

Linear Actuator

It is sometimes necessary to develop motion and force from an energy source and this task is carried out by a Linear Actuator. The device outputs energy in a linear manner unlike electric motors, which generate energy rotationally. One can buy one of the different kinds of Linear Actuator available in the market. A good example of a Linear Actuator is the mechanical actuator. A Linear Actuator, characteristically, change rotary motion on the handle or control knob to linear displacement through gears and /or screws. Some examples of the mechanical Linear Actuator are the carjack and the jackscrew. Mechanical actuators are common in optics and lasers as they manipulate the linear stages, mirrors mounts, goniometers and rotary stage position. One disadvantage of the mechanical actuator is that it can only be operated manually and no automation is possible on the device. A Linear Actuator is preferred because it is cheap and repeatable as well. Additionally, they do not need a power source to work and are self contained as well.

An additional example of the Linear Actuator is the Hydraulic actuator. The Linear Actuator, which is also known as a hydraulic cylinder, characteristically, consists of a single cylinder with a piston inserted. The piston sides are pressurized and depressurized alternately so that the user can gain precise control on the piston, which is controlled by linear displacement. A good example of the hydraulic Linear Actuator is the car jack. The piezoelectric Linear Actuator is yet another type of this device. This Linear Actuator has an extremely good positioning resolution and the motion range is equally short. The piezoelectric effect in particular materials is a characteristic that causes the expansion of the material, once voltage has been applied to it. Similar to mechanical actuators, electrical actuators are another type of the Linear Actuator and they work with electric motors instead of a handle or a control knob. One of the advantages of the electro mechanical Linear Actuator is that it does not cost much. Another advantage is that it can be repetitive. Unlike the mechanical Linear Actuator the electro mechanical Linear Actuator can be automated. It is also possible to self contain the actuator as well. One disadvantage of the Linear Actuator is that it has a large number of moving parts, which are easily worn out.

Prior to going out to buy a Linear Actuator one should conduct some research to identify outlets that sell the linear actuator device cheaply. Additionally, one can carry out the research on the internet. One can also ask for advice from people that have experience dealing with a Linear Actuator. It is also advisable to purchase a Linear Actuator from dealers with a favorable reputation to access the services that come with the purchase. Additionally, one could also purchase a Linear Actuator from dealers that have online store. The cost of actuators varies from one dealer to another and the research conducted should help one locate the most favorable dealer. It is however important to consider a whole range of factors apart from the price.