Actuators are an essential component within industrial settings, especially in terms of enabling precise control over mechanical systems as well as automating various processes.
However, similar to choosing the right material products for your needs, your choice of actuator also needs some consideration. That’s because the actuator needs to be able to cater to the specific demands of the application, performance criteria, environmental conditions and cost.
Two of the most common actuator types are hydraulic actuators and electric linear actuators. In this post, we’ll cover the differences between hydraulic and electric linear actuators to guide you.
What Is An Actuator?
An actuator is a device that makes something move or operate. How actuators work is that they receive a source of energy which they convert to be able move something, and these movements can either be rotary or linear in nature.
It’s possible to see examples of actuators in everyday life, including shop doors that automatically open as we walk towards them. Likewise, the physical mechanism that allows us to adjust the seats in our cars. Actuators also serve an important role in material handling products too.
In particular, the precise movement and control of materials require actuators to facilitate these actions. Examples of material handling products that use actuators include automated guided vehicles, automated storage and retrieval systems, conveyors, gantries and other types of lifting equipment.
Hydraulic Actuators
Hydraulic actuators use pressurised hydraulic fluid to facilitate linear or rotational motion. Their high powered output makes hydraulic actuators suitable for heavy-duty applications, including rugged environments where there is a need to withstand shock loads or high-impact situations. Crucially, hydraulic actuators provide both a consistent as well as controllable force, which is especially ideal for applicators where precision control is a requirement.
Considerations of hydraulic actuators are that they are complex systems requiring pump, reservoir and values also known as a hydraulic power unit. Their intricate systems can also mean hydraulic actuators require more maintenance. Likewise, hydraulic actuators can be more prone to leaks. They also require careful management as hydraulic fluids can pose various hazards.
Electric Linear Actuators
Electric linear actuators also facilitate movement but through the use of electricity. The movements are controlled in a straight line, hence why electric actuators are also referred to as linear.
Simple to operate and integrate with electronic control systems, electric linear actuators provide precise positioning, speed control as well as smooth operation. Unlike hydraulic actuators, electric linear actuators do not use fluids, which reduces the risks of leaks as well as environmental contamination. With fewer moving parts, electric linear actuators typically have fewer maintenance issues compared with hydraulic actuators.
Considerations of electric actuators are that they provide lower force compared to their hydraulic counterparts, which may rule them out for some heavy-duty applications. They can also be prone to overheating, meaning cooling solutions are required for intense applications. Electric linear actuators can also have a higher upfront cost.
Metreel – Material Handling Equipment UK
We hope you’ve found the above explanation of hydraulic vs electric linear actuators useful.
If your business requires any kind of material handling products, powerfeed or fall protection equipment then Metreel may be able to help.
Take a look at our products page to view our vast range of industrial solutions catering to various industries and capability requirements.
Alternatively, download our product brochure to learn more about our products and specifications.
You can also contact us directly by calling us on 0115 932 7010 or emailing us at [email protected].