Often the initial thought is to determine maximum hydraulic system capability and use this as a starting point to size an electric actuator. In some cases this may be the true application requirement. More often this is not a valid sizing method because it over-sizes the linear actuator, adds unnecessary components like gear boxes, and increases the size and cost of the motors and drives needed to control the actuator. All of this results in increased footprint and cost, plus an improper evaluation of the total cost of ownership (TCO).<\/p>\n
There are more accurate ways of determining thrust within a hydraulic system. Rather than the simple \u201carea x pressure\u201d method, we recommend digging deeper and measuring pressure on both sides of the cylinder to determine forces based on total effective surface pressure. Measuring pressure as close to the cylinder as possible and using the formula below, results in a more accurate calculation of an application\u2019s force requirements:<\/p>\n
Force = (Area1 x Pressure1) – (Area2 x Pressure2)<\/em><\/p>\n Check out our video in which the way to determine the forces required is fully explained:<\/p>\n