Solenoid valve actuators use an electric current to open or close valves, and are used in remote or continuous control situations. They can control various types of valves, from simple quarter-turn ball valves to complex control valves. The actuator contains an electromagnet that moves a control arm or valve stem. In explosive or flammable environments, […]
Temperature actuators control equipment based on temperature changes, using methods like metals, chemicals, or gases. Mercury switches were used in thermostats until the late 20th century, but are toxic. Electronic controls like thermistors have replaced mechanical devices. A temperature actuator is any device that turns equipment on and off in response to changes in temperature. […]
Gate actuators are mechanical devices used to remotely open gates, mainly for security and convenience. They are electrically powered and can be operated using a remote control key fob or a key card. They are typically driven by electric motors and can be used on various gate types, including vehicular and pedestrian entrances. The actuator […]
A servo actuator provides remote, automatic switching or actuating motion based on feedback signals from the system. It uses a servo controller to constantly compare desired results with real-time conditions and activate the actuator to achieve the desired result. Servo actuators are used in a variety of automated or remotely controlled systems. A servo actuator […]
A servo actuator provides remote, automatic switching or actuating motion based on feedback signals from the system. It includes a servo controller that constantly compares the desired results with real-time system conditions and activates the actuator to achieve the desired result. Servo actuators are used in a wide variety of automated or remotely controlled systems. […]
Actuator cables refer to two types of products: electrical cables for power and signal transfer between actuators and programmable logic controllers, and mechanical cables made of braided steel for physical motion transfer. Both types are used to control actuator output, but in different ways. Electrical cables can be power or signal cables, while mechanical cables […]
Manual actuators are levers, wheels, or buttons controlled by humans. They can be simple switches or complex control wheels. Examples include door handles, toilet flush arms, and accelerator pedals. They are used in irrigation, flood control, and industrial processes. Hand calculators also used manual actuators until electronic calculators became more common. A hand actuator is […]
Electromagnetic actuators use an internal electromagnetic field to provide motion and fall into two categories: solenoids and linear electromagnetic motors. They can be used for simple or sophisticated control of actuation time and positioning, and are widely used in industrial and domestic applications. Solenoids consist of a wire coil and ferrous metal plunger, while linear […]
Hydraulic actuators use hydraulic fluid to convert energy into linear motion, generating great power and precision. They consist of a cylinder, piston, hydraulic fluid, and supply and return line. They can lift, push, squeeze, and tread, and are used in heavy equipment and car brakes. Rotary hydraulic actuators use motors and a gearbox to control […]
An actuator assembly is a complete mechanism that translates power into motion, often consisting of an actuator, arm, transfer linkage, and power components. It can include the controller and secondary equipment, and is available in both complete and modular forms for replacement and repair. Actuator assembly is a generic term used to describe any complete […]
Electromechanical actuators convert electricity into mechanical force to move objects or devices. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be used to move doors, operate switches, or move valves. Linear and rotary actuators are the most common types, with linear actuators using electric motors or piezoelectricity to convert motion. Piezoelectric actuators are used […]
A vacuum actuator uses vacuum-induced motion to provide actuating force to a secondary device. It consists of a sealed chamber with a piston or diaphragm connected to an actuator rod. The vacuum source pulls the piston or diaphragm towards the port, providing actuating motion. It is commonly used in automobile engines and air conditioning systems. […]
A piston actuator transforms energy into motion, with a piston contained in a housing. They are powered by pneumatic, hydraulic or combustion systems and require an airtight casing. The size of the piston determines the amount of energy required and motion created. Hydraulic systems can multiply horsepower using multiple small pistons to activate a larger […]
Solenoid actuators use electromechanical forces to control mechanisms and have various designs. They consist of a stem, armature, spring, and solenoid electromagnets. When charged, the spring connects with the armature and stem, placing the device in an open state. They are used in various applications, including brake actuators and air supply valves. They can be […]
Actuator control systems activate and regulate the output of actuators, which provide remote or automated work motion. They range from simple start and stop buttons to advanced servo controllers, with travel limits to prevent damage. Servo systems adjust actuator motion based on real-time feedback data. An actuator control system is any electronic, electrical or electromechanical […]
A mechanical actuator uses external power sources like electricity, gas or oil to remotely control or move a secondary mechanism. It includes gears, hydraulic rams and lead screws and is preferred for high torque applications. It is commonly used in industries dealing with hazardous materials or requiring remote component control. The actuator translates the power […]
Heavy-duty actuators produce extreme torques and can exert 1,000 pounds or more of pressure. They come in rotary and linear types with electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic power sources. They are used in hot, dusty, and corrosive environments and traditionally built to be robust. While hydraulic types have been preferred, electric options are becoming contenders due […]
Electric solenoid actuators are electromagnetic devices used for remote actuation of secondary mechanisms. They consist of a coil, plunger, and control circuit. When energized, the magnetic field pulls the plunger towards the coil, providing actuation. They are simple, reliable, and have only one moving part. An electric solenoid actuator is an electromagnetic device that is […]
Spring actuators are devices used to control secondary devices in automatic or manual systems. They consist of a spring-loaded arm connected to electrical contacts that cut or activate the control circuit. They are commonly used as limit switch detectors and safety devices on moving machines. They allow for safe operation without an operator being present […]
Stepper actuators use precise stepper motors to control motion and stop at predefined points, making them ideal for high-precision applications like autofocus cameras and manufacturing processes. They are low power and require a dedicated controller to operate. A stepper actuator is a type of electric actuator that uses a stepper motor that can produce high […]
