What Is An Actuator?
An actuator is a device that changes energy into motion. Additionally, the machine can be used to drive in force. This mechanical device typically operates by taking in energy created by a certain element and converts it into motion. For instance, electric actuators take in energy from electric current and convert it to cause movement. Other forms of energy that the device can utilize include pneumatic or hydraulic fluid pressure from liquid or air. The functionality however, remains the same. The resulting motion can be of any form including ejecting, blocking or clamping. Actuators are used in industrial or manufacturing applications, which are typically used in valves, pumps, motors and switches. In other words, the device uses a mechanism that enables application of a control system on the environment. Proper installation of the device is important in order to obtain best results.
IMG: A Linear Actuator
Correct Installation Of The Linear Actuator Assures Best Performance
The operators of linear actuators should ensure proper installation of the device if they intend to have better performance overtime and for the machine to serve them throughout its complete life cycle. The actuator operators risks two things in the case of improper installation. First, the device may fail to perform as per the expectations. This is because it may have limited room to bind, which may cause it to stop working altogether. Secondly, incorrect installation could cause the machine to serve them for a much lesser period than its expected life.
Loading the Actuator
The operator should always avoid installation of the load far from the center of gravity. In case of mounting on angle, the mechanist should ensure that the load would get pushed in order to achieve a balance of pressure on both sides. Uneven load can cause the device to wear out one side, which would eventually reduce the lifespan of the actuator because of an occurrence known as binding.
In addition, the operator should avoid side loading that causes stress on the machine resulting to binding after a while. Side loading translates to mounting off the center of gravity and perpendicular to the device, which causes pressure build up on the mounted side resulting in damage of the actuator.
Double Check The Duty Cycle
Different actuators can perform different tasks depending on its duty cycle. In this regard, the operators should double check the duty cycle of the device before installation and turning it on. This practice will help ensure that the actuator can handle the task that the mechanist desires. For instance, Progressive Automation’s actuators can perform up to 25% duty cycle. Double-checking this kind of information is important if one desires optimum output from the device.
Assess Limit Switches
The internal limit switches command the actuator to move in a particular way or to stop a certain action. If a limit switch is faulty, the actuator may continue working past its length and damage the project. In order to solve this problem, the operator should consider installing external limit switches that can be attached to the outer portion of the machine.
Weather Update
Extreme weather conditions affect the way actuators work. In this regard, the operator should consider the weather conditions if the desire to install the device outside. For instance, the electric actuators have a maximum and minimum operational temperature.
Correct Specs
This practice entails double-checking the device stroke length, speed, IP rating, voltage and dimensions to avoid unforeseen consequences that may be costly.