Linear Actuator Blog

Posted by Ryan Klemetson on Tue, Aug 25 2020 @ 9:30 AM

Roller screw technology for electric actuators

Roller screw actuators offer longer life and higher thrust in a smaller package compared to ball screw actuators.

The unique design of a roller screw actuator offers longer life and higher thrust in a smaller package compared to ball screw actuators, increasing a machine designer’s ability to create compact machine concepts.

Posted by Andrew Zaske on Tue, Aug 11 2020 @ 9:30 AM

How electric actuators keep tire manufacturing up to speed

Electric solutions can replace fluid power throughout the multi-step process

Motion control systems throughout the tire-manufacturing process meet specific requirements for increased quality, faster assembly, improved reliability or flexibility to adjust sizes and changeovers. Many systems are currently driven by pneumatic or hydraulic motion control systems. Manufacturers are increasingly opting for electric systems that are cleaner, faster and more efficient.

Posted by Anonym on Tue, Jul 28 2020 @ 9:30 AM

Making the case: Why convert a tube-bending machine from hydraulic to electric

Whether you're making car parts or air-conditioning pipes, there may be a better way

Tube-bending machines have been driven by hydraulics for the past 80 years. Operators know how to get the best out of their machines, so why switch to electric cylinders? Yes, there are some disadvantages to going electric, but the fundamental reason to consider making the switch is simple: Electric cylinders make better parts. And that saves money. We'll discuss reasons to consider making the switch and take a look at two examples using electric-weld tubing and fluid-transfer tubing.

Posted by Anonym on Tue, Jul 14 2020 @ 9:30 AM

Demystifying electronic camming

Converting mechanical cams to electronic cams with electric actuators can significantly improve automation machinery flexibility.

Electronic cams may at first appear challenging, but electric actuators and motion controllers make them surprisingly easy to configure. Here’s how to approach electronic camming with confidence.

Posted by Andrew Zaske on Tue, Jun 30 2020 @ 9:30 AM

Cheese-making: Automating an ancient art for safety and efficiency

Electric linear actuators meet the challenges of cheese processing in all its forms

Electric linear motion enhances cheese processing and production.

Posted by Andrew Zaske on Tue, Jun 16 2020 @ 10:00 AM

Linear motion for meat processing

Keeping our food supply safe: How actuators play a role

Linear actuators used in meat processing are designed for corrosion resistance, washdown protection and bacterial growth prevention.

Posted by Ryan Klemetson on Tue, Jun 02 2020 @ 9:00 AM

Motion control solutions for medical device applications

Electric actuator design for mission-critical procedures.

Solutions for medical procedures include equipment for radiation treatment, a contrast dye injection, and a specialty machine that safely performs scans on large animals.

Posted by Anonym on Thu, May 14 2020 @ 1:00 PM

The Big Era of electromechanical linear actuators

High-force electric linear actuators can take on some of the biggest hydraulics. Here are five reasons why.

Traditionally, hydraulic power is the go-to answer for heavy lifting. Now, high-force electric actuators have overtaken hydraulics in terms of flexibility, precision and reliability.

Posted by Andrew Zaske on Tue, Apr 28 2020 @ 10:00 AM

Automating the squeeze: Tolomatic prototype improves on hand-held emergency ventilator for COVID-19 patients

Tolomatic seeks development partner in medical design community

Our prototypes use electric linear actuators to automate a hand-held, portable and non-invasive emergency ventilator. The advantage of screw-driven linear actuators is that they provide smooth and consistent operation--allowing the device to control the velocity, the acceleration and the distance of any move at any point in time. This controlled motion allows for a more continuous volume of air per compression cycle and a more typical breathing cycle.

Posted by Ryan Klemetson on Tue, Apr 21 2020 @ 8:30 AM

How to calculate electric linear actuator service life

Every machine design engineer gets asked about the anticipated life of their machine—life that’s based on machine components including electric linear actuators. Also, expected service life is a factor engineers consider when they’re evaluating competing components.

Calculating electric linear actuator life can be straight-forward for ball screw and roller screw actuators. You use the L₁₀ life formula for ball bearings. Here's a summary of the method.