KYNTRONICS ACTUATOR COMPARISON GUIDE: CHOOSING THE RIGHT TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR APPLICATION

WHAT IS THE HYBRID ACTUATOR (SHA)?

Kyntronics’ Hybrid actuator (SHA) incorporates a motor, pump, valving, sensors, and integral hydraulic cylinder in a single sealed unit. It eliminates the hoses, fluid reservoirs, and external hydraulic power units (HPUs) found in traditional hydraulic actuation systems while delivering high force (up to 150,000 lbs.), servo precision, IoT readiness, and ultra-low fluid usage. It is designed for energy efficiency, reliability, precision, and low maintenance. Design and Optional Features for SHA Series Hybrid Linear Actuators

HYBRID SHA VS. TRADITIONAL HYDRAULIC ACTUATOR SYSTEMS

Traditional hydraulic actuators (cylinders) rely on a separate hydraulic power unit (HPU) that connects via hoses to hydraulic cylinders that perform the work. The HPU generally includes a number of components, including: a large fluid storage tank, an accumulation system, a filtration system, motor / pump assembly, and valves to control fluid flow and fluid routing. The pump runs continuously, so pressurized fluid is available at any time to perform work. Unfortunately, these systems will inevitably leak, and exposure to the environment requires regular fluid and filter replacements to maintain reliable operation. Additionally, HPUs and their associated components have a large footprint, are noisy, and generate a lot of heat.

Hybrid SHA – Key Advantages:

• The SHA uses power only when performing work, dramatically reducing energy usage.
• It’s a totally sealed system that eliminates contamination risks and never requires fluid changes.
• The compact design of the SHA saves space and is easily integrated into machines.
• Integral position and force sensors in the SHA provide precision control capability.

  VS.   

HYBRID SHA VS. ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SCREW-TYPE ACTUATORS (EMAs)

Electro-mechanical actuators incorporate a motor that drives a screw through a series of gears, belts, or other means of mechanical power transmission. There are various types of screw mechanisms used in EMAs, including acme screw, ball screw, and roller screw. EMAs are often used in applications requiring precise control, and unlike traditional hydraulics, they consume energy only when performing work. Unfortunately, EMAs have a significant shortcoming in that they are fragile and susceptible to damage from shock loads, side loading, and concentrated wear. They also require regular lubrication to prevent premature failure from metal-to-metal wear with the power transmission components. EMAs can be relatively expensive at higher force ratings (above 5,000 Lbs.) and with longer stroke lengths (over 36 in.).

Hybrid SHA – Key Advantages:

• Shock-load-tolerant design with no metal-to-metal wear parts. No lubrication required.
• Up to 50 million inches of rod travel before preventative maintenance.
• Available in forces ranging from 100 Lbs. to 150,000 lbs. and stroke length in any increment up to 120 in.
• Operates with power-on-demand, saving energy
• Integrated pressure and position feedback sensors for precise control.

KYNTRONICS’ HYBRID ACTUATORS – THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Hybrid actuators are an all-electric actuation solution that integrates high-precision servo control with an integral pump and cylinder. It combines the best features of traditional hydraulic actuation and electro-mechanical actuation while eliminating their respective shortcomings, as illustrated in the chart below:

FEATURE COMPARISON SUMMARY

WHY CHOOSE KYNTRONICS SHA

If your operation struggles with:

• Leaky hydraulics
• High energy usage
• Costly downtime or maintenance
• Reliability issues with screw actuators
• Integration complexity

Then the Hybrid SHA is your solution. Kyntronics offers:

• “Total Solution” actuator systems
• Fully tested solutions with complete documentation
• Engineering support for selection and sizing
• Customization tailored to your application needs

From pressing, material handling, metal forming, lifting, and clamping to test equipment—if your project demands force, precision, efficiency, and low maintenance, Kyntronics Hybrid actuators and Servo Power Units are the answer. It’s not just a better actuator—it’s a better approach to motion control.