Posted by Tolomatic on August 23, 2016

High force linear actuators: hydraulic vs roller screw actuators

Hydraulic cylinders have long been a leading choice for factory automation equipment needing a high force linear actuator. However, there have been advances in electric actuation (for example, the availability of roller screw actuators) which make these electric actuators suitable now for many high force applications.

Posted by Tolomatic on August 9, 2016

Electric actuator life in units of time: ball & roller screw actuators

A machine’s useful life depends on the life of its critical components. And machine designers  frequently hear the question, “How long can I expect this machine to keep working?”

When electric linear actuators are used, calculating life can be straight-forward for ball screw and roller screw actuators.  Since these screw types incorporate rolling elements as essential parts, you can use the L10 life formula for ball bearings.

Posted by Tolomatic on July 26, 2016

Solid-bearing, belt-driven linear actuator handles harsh environment

Many applications call for the carrying action of a rodless electromechanical actuator. And many of these need the high speed and long stroke capabilities of a belt-driven linear actuator. But what do you do when your application is in a dusty, harsh environment? Many rodless electromechanical actuators can’t handle these conditions. Their roller bearings get clogged with dust and stop working. Could a solid bearing be the solution?

Posted by Igor Glikin on July 12, 2016

Selecting a rodless electromechanical actuator: belt- vs. screw-driven

Let’s say you’ve decided you need a rodless electromechanical actuator to carry a load in your application. Now you have to select a linear drive system. The two most common choices are screw drives and belt drives. Both drive types offer long life, low maintenance, and efficiency in converting the motor’s rotary motion to the carrier’s linear motion. However, each drive type is more suited to particular applications than others, depending on a few key factors.

Posted by Tolomatic on June 28, 2016

Electric linear actuator is clean-in-place, washdown ready

Stringent regulations govern the food processing industry. Food processing equipment and components, like electric linear actuators, must meet food safety regulations and stand up to clean-in-place (CIP) procedures. Food industry cleaning procedures may include regular washdowns with hot water, steam, high pressures, and caustic chemicals. Corrosion resistant materials and a water-shedding design are musts.

Posted by Tolomatic on June 14, 2016

Linear actuator helps convert conveyor to electric

Every factory relies on some kind of conveyor system to take components, work pieces, or finished goods from one place to another. In fact, most factories have several conveying systems, each tailored to a specific need. Conveying equipment is varied and essential. Components in these systems, like linear actuators, must be able to meet these varied needs and provide reliable performance.

Posted by Tolomatic on June 1, 2016

“How long will this actuator last?”

“How long will it last?” Every machine design engineer gets asked this question and will have to calculate the anticipated life of the machine – life that’s based on machine components including linear actuators. Engineers also have to consider expected life when they’re evaluating competing components.

Posted by Tolomatic on May 17, 2016

Hydraulic linear actuator advantages and disadvantages

Hydraulic cylinders are popular automation components in many industries. Like other types of linear actuator (pneumatic and electric), they are used to move loads in a straight line. A hydraulic actuator uses the energy in a pressurized liquid, usually oil, to achieve this linear motion, as opposed to compressed air (pneumatics) or electricity.

Posted by Tolomatic on May 3, 2016

Webinar: tips on electric rod actuator selection

When you’re called on to specify electric linear actuators, one of the critical decisions you’ll face is whether to use a rodless or rod-style model. Either actuator type has advantages and disadvantages.

In general, if the actuator has to carry a load, a rodless product is what you need.  However, if a load needs to be pushed or pulled, select a rod-style actuator. 

Posted by Tolomatic on April 19, 2016

Hygienic linear actuator keeps it clean

The world of food production and packaging is broad, varied and ever-changing. That world needs filling machines as diverse as the range of food products they process. Some filling machines have to handle powders and dry solids while others must handle thin or thick liquids. Some machines fill to a specified level, and some fill by volume or weight. This wide variety of equipment has a unifying need, though -- a need for hygienic design that can keep food products uncontaminated and withstand even the most stringent cleaning procedures.