How to Choose the Right Electric Actuator

How to Choose the Right Electric Actuator?

Load - Should we push the weight of a single egg, or lift the entire Earth?

Itinerary - Implement 1 centimeter, or 1 meter?

Speed - Slow travel, or quick back-and-forth?

Environment - A soaking-wet tropical rainforest? The scorching Sahara? Or a cozy bedroom?

Install - How is the pushrod connected to your device? Through-hole? Threaded? With bearings?

Other - Built-in signal feedback, vibration and shock resistance, corrosion resistance, electromagnetic interference resistance, low noise, and synchronous operation of multiple units, among other features.

1. Duty Cycle

Most people’s first consideration when selecting a linear actuator—commonly referred to as an electric push rod or electric cylinder—is typically the load. In reality, when faced with a wide array of brands and models of linear actuators, the frequency of use can broadly categorize them into two main types: high-frequency and low-frequency applications. This difference in usage frequency dictates the choice of motor type and transmission method for the electric push rod. For instance, high-frequency applications often employ servo motors, stepper motors, and brushless DC motors, which are well-suited for prolonged, continuous, high-speed operation. In contrast, low-frequency applications typically rely on cost-effective brushed DC motors.

If your application does not require such a high frequency of reciprocating motion, you may consider using a DC brushed motor. The available supply voltages are primarily 12 V, 24 V, 36 V, and 48 V, and approximately 80% of the models in Hongba’s electric actuators are equipped with this type of motor. Neither type of motor is inherently superior to the other; they are simply designed for different application scenarios.

2. Load & Speed

HB-DJ The series of pushers includes models with various load ratings, ranging from as low as 5 kg to as high as 2 tonnes. However, there is typically an inverse relationship between load and speed: the greater the load, the slower the motion. Each product is assigned a specific drive code; for example, the heavy-duty pusher HB-DJ805G (as shown in the figure below). When speed is not a strict requirement, we recommend selecting a lower-speed drive code, which will provide a larger load margin and safety factor, as well as a longer service life.

3. Customized Itinerary Stroke Length

In theory, the length of an electric push rod can be customized to any specification; however, to ensure product safety and based on stress analysis, we have imposed certain constraints on the customizable stroke range. Taking the heavy-duty push rod HB-DJ805G as an example (as shown in the figure below), if your required stroke exceeds the customizable range, please contact us at media@wxhongba.com. 0510-81018780 Conduct a comprehensive assessment. Our company has several project engineers on staff who can provide customized, tailored services for your project.

4. Working Environment

The environmental requirements mainly fall into two categories: a. Ingress Protection rating, and b. Operating temperature.

a. Waterproof and dustproof rating

This is what we commonly refer to as the IP rating. The first digit indicates dust resistance, while the second digit indicates water resistance; the higher the number, the better the level of protection (as shown in the figure below).

▼ Code Composition

▼ Code Definition

First digit: Solid particle protection, indicating the enclosure’s ability to protect internal components and prevent the ingress of external objects.

Second digit: Liquid ingress protection, indicating the enclosure’s ability to resist liquid penetration.

Some tests are independent; a higher-rated test does not necessarily supersede a lower-rated one. For example, a smartphone rated IPX7 can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep, but it may not withstand a high-pressure water jet (IPX6).

Hongba Industrial’s pushrod actuators feature a minimum ingress protection rating of IP65, with options up to IP69K for static protection, enabling them to withstand high-pressure water jet cleaning. Although the products are designed with multiple layers of protection from the outset, water remains the arch-nemesis of electrical equipment—much like kryptonite to Superman. If users take additional protective measures to shield the actuator from direct water exposure as much as possible, it will help extend the overall service life of the product to a significant degree.

b. Ambient temperature

All measurement data are obtained under ambient temperature conditions of 20°C and stable voltage. However, depending on the application scenario or geographic location, electric actuators may be operated in extreme ambient temperature ranges, from as low as –40°C to as high as 65°C. When selecting an actuator, it is essential to take these temperature conditions into account.

In addition, pushrods may be subjected to harsh operating conditions such as vibration, impact, chemical corrosion, and overpressure. Therefore, providing a detailed description of the pushrod’s application environment will enable us to help you select the most suitable product configuration.

5. Installation Method Mounting

First, measure the installation location to ensure there is sufficient space for the pushrod. Hongba’s online 3D drawing generation system is now available; with just a few simple steps, you can easily export STEP-format 3D models. In addition, a variety of front and rear connectors are available to suit a wide range of application scenarios.

The foregoing outlines the key parameters to consider when selecting an electric actuator. Of course, actuator applications vary widely in their specific requirements; while there are some general guidelines that apply across the board, there are also numerous nuanced factors unique to each application. Please feel free to call 0510-81011388 (pr@wxhongba.com). Hongba offers complimentary consultation services and will be happy to recommend the most suitable product for your needs.