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Electric actuators – design and principle of operation
An electric linear actuator is a device that converts electrical energy into linear motion, i.e. movement in a single straight line. It is an extremely useful tool in many fields of engineering where precise and controlled movement of machine components or equipment is required. Electric actuators are used in industrial automation, robotics and even medicine. Their ability to provide precise control makes them ideal for tasks where a high degree of accuracy and repeatability of movement is required.
An electric actuator is made up of several key components that work together to enable its effective operation. The main components are the electric motor, the leadscrew, the bushing and the gear mechanism. The motor is the heart of the actuator, generating the power required to drive the mechanism. The leadscrew converts the rotary motion of the motor into linear motion, which is then transmitted to the bushing, causing it to move.
The mechanics of the electric actuator is based on the principle of converting the rotary motion of the motor into linear motion by means of a leadscrew. This is made possible by the use of special gears that increase the torque, allowing heavy components to be moved with high precision.
An electric linear piston actuator is a special type of actuator in which linear motion is produced by a piston moving in a cylinder. This piston is driven by a motor through a gear system, allowing precise control of its position. Due to their design, electric piston actuators are often used in applications where high forces and precise control are required.
The principle of operation of an electric actuator is relatively simple. The electrical energy supplied to the motor is converted into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is crucial as it is responsible for generating linear motion. This process is carried out by means of a leadscrew and a gear, which are fundamental components of any actuator. Through this mechanism, the actuator can precisely move, raise or lower various components in machines and equipment.
The electric actuator can be controlled using various control methods. They allow the user to fine-tune the actuator’s parameters to suit specific requirements. This makes electric actuators extremely effective and versatile, which explains their popularity in many areas of technology.
An electric actuator can be controlled in a number of ways, depending on the requirements and specifications of the application. The simplest methods involve the use of three-position switches or relays to control the direction and speed of movement of the actuator. More advanced systems can use programmable logic controllers or microprocessor-based control systems, offering greater flexibility and integration with other automation systems.
Electric actuators play a key role in industrial process automation, providing precise and reliable motion control in a wide range of applications. Their versatility means they are used in a wide range of industries, from production lines to packaging process automation and advanced robotic systems. Their ability to accurately control position and force makes them ideal where repeatability and high accuracy are required.
In industrial automation, electric actuators are invaluable in automating processes such as lifting, moving and positioning components on production lines. Used in applications such as assembly, palletising or packaging, these actuators increase production efficiency and reduce the risk of human error. They allow processes to be more flexible and adaptable to specific production requirements.
In internal logistics, electric actuators are an essential part of automated transport systems. Trolleys, conveyors and other equipment use precision actuator drives to ensure smooth material flow. Proper integration of actuators with control systems optimises logistics processes, reducing completion times and minimising downtime.
In robotics, electric actuators enable robots to perform precision tasks such as welding, painting or assembly. Thanks to their advanced control capabilities, these actuators provide robots with a high degree of flexibility and motion accuracy, which is critical in high-precision applications. In addition, electric actuators have low running costs and a long service life, which translates into reduced equipment maintenance costs.
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