Actuators are mechanical or electro-mechanical devices that provide controlled movements to a connected mechanism or a linear or rotary system. However, the system needs a power source to function properly. Here’s a list of the different types of actuators, their uses, and how each works.

Hydraulic Actuators

A hydraulic actuator uses pressurized liquid to facilitate mechanical operations in many industrial settings. Because liquids are incapable of being compressed, hydraulic actuators can supply force far beyond that of any other type of actuator, often up to 4,000 pounds per square inch (PSI). Because hydraulic actuators use pressurized liquid, they can supply power even from a far distance. As a result, these actuators are usually used for offshore drilling and exploration.

Electric Actuators

Powered by a motor that converts electric into mechanical torque, electric actuators are the most popular type of actuator. Electric actuators don’t require oil, so they’re much cleaner than some of their counterparts. In addition, electric actuators are easily reprogrammed and networked, offering immediate feedback for diagnostics and maintenance.

Electric actuators come in both linear and rotary format, and each serves a different purpose. A linear electric actuator moves valves and other mechanisms in a straight line using belts, screws, and coils. Typical uses for these actuators include locking doors, braking machine motions, and opening and closing dampers. Electrical rotary actuators provide rotational movement applications. A range of industries uses this type of electrical actuator, especially in the robotics industry.

Pneumatic Actuators

Pneumatic actuators convert energy formed by air or a vacuum into linear or rotary motion. The air in these types of actuators comes from an external compressor or a manual pump that forces air into a cylinder with a piston. The piston then begins to move, creating the energy needed to move valves open or closed.

The easiest way to understand a pneumatic actuator is to think of it as a hydraulic actuator that uses air instead of liquid. These actuators are efficient, creating huge changes in the system from small alterations in pressure, and also operate more quietly than hydraulic actuators.

Mechanical Actuators

A mechanical actuator is the simplest of all actuators, using physical parts to convert rotational to linear motion. Rack and pinion steering on cars or turning an outdoor faucet on or off are the most common examples of this type of actuator.

Thermal/Magnetic Actuators

A thermal or magnetic actuator uses either heat or magnets to turn an electric current into mechanical energy. Most often, these actuators use shape memory alloys, which are metals that can return to their original shape even after heating or distortion. These actuators tend to be economical, lightweight, and easy to construct, so they are applicable to a variety of industries.

When you need actuators for any type of project, Enolgas USA is the only company you need to get in touch with. We provide a massive selection of actuators, as well as product knowledge so you can get the job done. Make sure to contact us today for all of your actuator needs.

Tags : Electric Actuators , Hydraulic Actuators , Mechanical Actuators , Pneumatic Actuators