Solutions in Motion™

You know that linear actuators move loads in a straight line, forward and/or backward. You know they can be powered by hydraulic fluid, compressed air, or electricity. Each type of actuator has its own pros and cons. So, when should you use electric linear actuators? They are not appropriate for every application, but they can be quite versatile. Here are some examples.

Pneumatic linear actuators offer numerous advantages across a wide variety of applications. However, they must be spec’d properly. Otherwise, the result could be less-than-desired productivity and greater-than-expected problems, downtime, and costs. There are several factors that affect sizing.

There are always numerous factors that go into choosing the right linear actuator for an application. One consideration that is often overlooked is moment loading. Moment load comes into play when the cylinder is located some distance away from the actual load that it's lifting. That distance may be very short, but you have to account for it along with the weight of the load in order to spec the proper cylinder.

When we hear the familiar phrases “small but mighty” and “oldie but goodie” referring to fluid power, what comes to mind? Compact air cylinders, of course! Although they've been around since the 1950s, compact air cylinders have certainly stood the test of time. They have proven so versatile, they’re still the right solution for a wide range of industrial applications.

Cylinders that convert energy into linear motion can be powered by hydraulic fluid or compressed air. Hydraulic cylinders are usually the go-to option for seriously heavy-duty lifting and moving because hydraulics are very powerful and can provide tremendous holding strength. But for most industrial applications, the more agile air cylinder is often a better choice.

When you're looking to move a load in a straight line in an industrial application, a linear actuator is probably your answer. Linear actuators, also called cylinders, that movement possible. Without them, automated equipment could not exist. But the type of actuator depends on the situation. Each type of actuator has its own pros and cons, but understanding how each kind of linear actuator works will help you decide.

There is a wide variety of pneumatic products on the market that nicely suits almost any industrial purpose. But, in some cases, a hydraulic cable linear actuator may be the better choice.

All linear actuators convert energy into straight-line motion, forward and/or back. Hydraulic actuators use fluid as a power source rather than compressed air, and they use either a rod or a cable to move the load. Each type has advantages and limitations, so the key to successful performance is matching the cylinder with the task at hand. Let’s look at the differences between these two types of hydraulic actuators.

When we talk about fluid power, we often think of hydraulics because hydraulic actuators use a fluid such as oil. But let’s not forget that air is also a fluid, even though it’s not a liquid, because it flows. And air is a powerful option for driving industrial actuators — often the preferred option compared to hydraulic actuators.

When choosing the best type of actuator for your design, there are several variables to consider: What you need to move, how you need it to move, and under what conditions. 

Your four choices are mechanical, electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic. The difference between these cylinders gives each one distinct advantages and disadvantages when used for certain applications.

Fluid power can be complex. There are a lot of variables to consider when deciding what type fluid will be best to power your project. Should you choose hydraulic actuation that uses an oil-type fluid or pneumatic actuation that uses compressed air?

Here is a quick guide for picking the right kind of actuation for your project.