Actuators - What is an Actuator?

Unraveling the Complexities of Actuators: Understanding Their Definition, Mechanisms, Varied Applications, and Impact on Modern Engineering and Technology

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  • Actuators: What are they, how do they...

    • The Basics of Actuators

    What is an actuator? An actuator is a device that converts energy into mechanical motion. It’s the reason machines move — from industrial robots to automatic doors. Actuators take an energy source and transform it into physical movement, usually in a linear or rotary fashion.

    Actuators are essential in modern technology. They're used everywhere — in homes, vehicles, medical devices, factories, and even in smartphones. When electricity, compressed air, or hydraulic fluid is applied, an actuator moves something — opens a valve, lifts a panel, or pushes a mechanism.

    In this guide, you’ll learn what actuators are, how they work, the main types available, and how to select and install them.

    An actuator is the part of a machine that allows it to move. Just like muscles enable movement in the human body, actuators enable movement in machines.

    They work by taking in energy — typically electric, pneumatic (air), or hydraulic (fluid) — and converting it into mechanical force. That force can create either rotary or linear motion.

    Linear actuators are especially common. They are used in:

    • Access control systems (e.g., automated doors)
    • Robotics and factory automation
    • Home devices
    • Vibration alerts in phones

    Different Types of Actuators

    Different Types of Actuators

    Electric Actuators use motors to generate motion. They're compact, clean, energy-efficient, and ideal for many automated systems. Downsides include limited force capacity and slower speeds.

    Hydraulic Actuators use pressurized fluid to move a piston. They can exert high force and are common in industrial and heavy-duty applications. However, they may leak and require more components like tanks and valves.

    Pneumatic Actuators use compressed air to create motion. They offer fast action and moderate force but require air compressors and tubing systems.

    Choosing an Actuator

    There is no universal actuator that suits all applications. Your choice depends on your industry, desired movement type, energy source, and load requirements.

    Actuators all share some basic components that allow them to convert and control energy.

    Key Components:

    • Power Source: Provides electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic energy to drive the actuator.
    • Power Converter: Adjusts energy from the power source into a usable form.
    • Actuator: The actual device that converts energy into movement.
    • Mechanical Load: The object or resistance the actuator is designed to move.
    • Controller: Lets you manage the actuator's output, direction, and movement limits.

    actuator components

    Electric Linear Actuator

    These use electric signals to create back-and-forth linear movement. A motor drives a piston via gears. They’re ideal for home and light-industrial automation.

    Electric Rotary Actuator

    These generate rotational motion, either continuously or to a fixed position. Common in robotics and automated doors.

    Hydraulic Linear Actuator

    Uses fluid pressure to generate straight-line motion. Powerful and used in heavy machinery and industrial settings.

    Pneumatic Linear Actuator

    Creates linear motion using compressed air. Great for fast, repetitive movements in industrial processes.

    Determining the Best Actuator for Your Needs

    Key Considerations:

    • Movement Type: Linear or rotary.
    • Energy Input: Electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic.
    • Precision: Do you need fine control or raw power?
    • Force Requirements: How heavy is the load?
    • Stroke Length & Speed: How far and how fast does it need to move?
    • Environment: Indoor, outdoor, dusty, wet?
    • Mounting Options: Dual-pivot or stationary?

    Assessing Actuator Performance

    • Torque and Force: Choose according to the resistance your actuator must overcome.
    • Load-Free Speed: The speed at which the actuator operates with no load.
    • Durability: How long it will last under your conditions.
    • Energy Efficiency: Especially important for high-use applications.

    Connecting an Actuator

    Most electric linear actuators are easy to connect. Many come with 4-pin plugs. If not, you can use a connector and match the wiring colors (e.g., red to brown, black to blue).

    You can also control actuators with rocker switches (momentary or non-momentary). You’ll need a 12VDC battery or power adapter, and basic wiring as outlined in the blog.

    Need help? Try our Wiring Diagram Generator.

    actuator wiring diagram

    Dual Pivot: Allows the actuator to swing with the object — great for doors and movable parts.

    Stationary Mounting: Fixes the actuator to one position to push or pull a load from a set place.

    For both methods, use suitable mounting brackets and ensure your mounting system can handle the expected load.

    TL;DR — What is an Actuator?

    • An actuator is a device that turns energy into motion.
    • Types include electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic — each with different use cases.
    • Linear actuators move in a straight line; rotary actuators rotate.
    • Applications range from robotics and vehicles to home automation.
    • Choosing the right one depends on motion type, force, precision, and environment.
    • FIRGELLI offers a full range of actuators for any application.

    👉 Shop Actuators | 👉 Wiring Help

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