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Linear Actuators
For many industrial applications, linear actuators are used in the power sweep systems used to mechanically lift and lower platforms, and the tilt/slide systems used in pallet handling equipment. A linear actuator is simply an actuator that produces motion in a smooth line, contrast to the circular movement of a traditional electric motor. Many times these actuators are mounted on a stand and act as continuous motion controllers, helping to increase system efficiency. Because of the ability to form motion into a smooth curve, they can also be used to provide for a more controllable output than is possible with more complicated electrical motor designs.
Because of the ease of mounting and operation, actuators have become very popular in the construction industry and are commonly found on overhead cranes, forklifts, and various other machines. They can be mounted in various ways, such as on a stand, on a dolly, or even on the ground. Some of the more common uses include leveling, lowering and raising cranes and forklifts, and lifting and lowering pallets. The fact that the only limit on the type of actuator you will need is your imagination is what makes them so versatile.
Linear actuators are often used as single-speed or two-speed variable speed electrical motors because their smooth shape makes them very simple to control, and because their duty cycle is almost imperceptible. Their ability to switch quickly between high and low speeds without the need for additional hardware makes them extremely economical, as well. Although they do not have the large motors of some AC motors, they do make up for this in both performance and cost.