It is likely that you are aware of the actuator and its significance, regardless of whether you are an expert machine person or someone who is still learning about motor device parts.
The purpose of actuators is to control the movement of machines. Despite this, various kinds of actuators use different power sources and produce different motions. You can troubleshoot parts or refine processes within your machine by distinguishing between these motion-controlling devices.
We'll look at the different types of actuators and their functions, along with some tips for keeping them in good working order.
What is an Actuator?
By receiving feedback from a control signal, an actuator initiates a movement. Depending on the purpose of the machine, an actuator creates specific motions once it has power.
Actuators are used in a variety of devices. Which ones are listed below?
Many machines and systems feature actuators since they were popularized during World War II. Some examples include:
At least one actuator is found in every piece of equipment or appliance that converts electrical energy into motion. Examples include ventilation fans, blenders, and refrigerators. Actuators are also used in electric cars.
Actuators that receive digital pulses and convert them into mechanical motion are known as stepper motors. It is common to see stepper motors in robots, smart tools, or automated cutting machines.
Tubes, pistons, and rods are used to move hydraulic cylinders in a linear motion. Hydraulic motion is used by many vehicles, including bulldozers, backhoes, and excavators.
What Are Some Different Types of Actuators?
Depending on the motion they produce and the power source they use, actuators can be classified. Linear and rotary motion can be created by actuators.
Actuators with linear motion
Linear actuators are devices that move straight lines. In hydraulic or pneumatic devices, they can either be mechanical or electrical. Machines, equipment, or gadgets that require some form of straight motion usually have linear actuators.
A linear actuator consists of a nut, cover, and sliding tube. Space is provided for motion by the sliding tube, whereas interlocking movement is provided by the nut and cover. In addition to the system mentioned above, other linear actuators will have other parts.
Rotary Actuators
Pneumatic rotary actuators create a circular motion, as opposed to a linear actuator. Machines use these rotating parts to complete a turning movement, hence the term "rotary.". When moving forward, backward, up, or down, rotary parts are used in conjunction with linear actuators.
Some rotary actuators are powered by electricity, while others are powered by hydraulics or pneumatics. A rotary actuator can be found in windshield wipers, electric fans, or machines that transport goods.
Source of Energy
A further way to distinguish actuators is to sort them by their power source or system. According to their energy source, the following actuators are most common:
Hydraulic Actuators
A hydraulic actuator consists of a fluid-filled cylinder with a piston suspended at the center. Typically, hydraulic actuators produce linear motion, and their return motion is assisted by a spring. Exercise equipment such as steppers or car carriers uses these actuators.
Pneumatic Actuators
The pneumatic actuator is one of the most reliable options for machine motion. The mechanical movement is created by pressurized gases. When starting and stopping a machine, pneumatic actuators are preferred by many companies since they can make precise motions.
Pneumatic actuators can be found in the following types of equipment:
Brakes on buses
Machines for exercising
Motors with vane blades
Sensors for pressure
Systems for pneumatic mailing
Electric Actuators
As you might expect, electric actuators require electricity to operate. Manufacturing machinery, robotics equipment, and electric cars are well-known examples. As with pneumatic actuators, they also produce precise motion due to a constant flow of electricity.
Electrical actuators can be classified into the following types:
Electric actuators: These actuators are capable of converting electrical signals into linear or rotary movements.
Actuators powered by electrohydraulic are also powered electrically, but they move hydraulic accumulators. This is usually seen in heavy industrial equipment, where the accumulator provides the force for movement.
Thermal and Magnetic Actuators
Shape memory alloys are used in thermal and magnetic actuators to move when heated. Coils placed in a static magnetic field can also move thermal or magnetic actuators due to the Joule effect. Known as the Laplace-Lorentz force, the magnetic field produces constant motion. While remaining lightweight, most thermal and magnetic actuators are capable of producing a wide range of motion.
Mechanical Actuators
The majority of actuators are mechanical, such as pulleys and racks, and pinions. Another mechanical force is applied, such as pulling or pushing, and the actuator leverages that movement to achieve the desired result. An object can be mobilized from point A to point B by turning a single gear on a set of racks and pinions. Pulling on the pulley can move the other side upwards or toward the desired position.
Supercoiled Polymer Actuators
In terms of actuator types, supercoiled polymer actuators are a relatively new addition. Using coils that contract and expand when heated or cooled, they reproduce the motion of human muscle in robotics and prosthetic limbs.
How to Select the Right Actuator
Making the right choice for your equipment begins with understanding the different types of actuators. We'll go over the factors that will help you make the right choice since each kind has its purpose and energy requirements.
Power Source Availability
Power source compatibility is the first thing you need to consider. Electric actuators are perhaps the best choice and the option with the most options if you own a facility that is powered by electricity. Pneumatic and hydraulic equipment can be used if there are no electrical sources nearby, or if you just want a fully functional piece of equipment without electricity.
Required Movement
You should also consider the range of movement that your equipment requires when choosing an actuator. Is it linear, rotary, or a combination of both? To help you concretize the final equipment, custom actuators can combine or sequentially create these motions.
Precision
Some actuators are more precise than others. Pneumatic actuators are used to create air brakes, for example, because air pressure is efficient at starting and stopping. Hydraulic actuators, for example, have a larger margin of movement variation.
Industries requiring high levels of precision for safety and success should consider actuator types with specific movements.
Safety and Environmental Concerns
The safety of your equipment should also be considered when choosing an actuator. In areas with extreme temperatures or conductivity hazards, electrical or thermal actuators should be used with caution. An occupational hazard may arise if an electrical actuator is operated close to a water body without sealing or other safety measures in place.
The environmental impact of each actuator will need to be noted if your company is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint. There is usually little to no carbon footprint associated with electrical actuators.
Official Guidelines
Additionally, there are specific guidelines to follow when it comes to industrial actuators in certain areas. Locations that contain high levels of combustible gases should comply with the requirements imposed by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).
Maintaining Your Actuator
It is necessary to maintain all equipment. Your actuators should be maintained to avoid major shutdowns, hazards, or lost productivity. Here are some general tips for maintaining your actuators.
Perform routine visual equipment checks to identify early signs of actuator problems. Wear and tear must be inspected by a mechanic with a keen eye.
Refill and replace: Hydraulic actuators sometimes require cylinder fluid replacement. Make sure there are no leaks or signs of low hydraulic fluid levels at all times. Your actuator parts should also be replaced if they have loose or damaged nuts, bolts, coils, or screws.
In some cases, actuators won't show external signs of a problem, but their performance can help you pinpoint the problem. If you want to catch deeper problems, you may need automated graphs and output computations.