ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ACTUATORS AND KYNTRONICS ACTUATORS: SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES

When selecting the right linear actuator for an industrial application, it's essential to understand the different actuator technologies available. Electro-mechanical actuators, including ball screw, acme screw, and roller screw actuators, offer precise control for many applications.
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However, Kyntronics’ Hybrid Linear Actuators (SHA) provide a compelling alternative, with features that differentiate them from traditional electro-mechanical actuators. In this article, we’ll explore these actuator types, comparing their similarities and differences, and explain why Kyntronics actuators may be the ideal choice for certain applications.

 

UNDERSTANDING ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ACTUATORS

Electro-mechanical actuators are electric linear actuators that use a screw mechanism powered by an electric motor. The rotary motion from the motor is converted into linear motion via a nut that moves along the threaded rod. Common types of electro-mechanical actuators include:

  • Acme Screw Actuators: Simple and cost-effective, suitable for light-duty applications.
  • Ball Screw Actuators: More efficient than acme screw actuators, offering higher precision and load-bearing capabilities.
  • Roller Screw Actuators: The most robust and precise type of screw actuator, but also the most expensive due to the inclusion of planetary gears and higher precision components.

Electro-mechanical actuators coupled with servo motors can provide precise control of position, speed, and force. These servo-driven actuators are often referred to as linear servo actuators. They are commonly used in industrial applications that require high precision and repeatability, such as automated machinery or robotics.

 

KYNTRONICS HYBRID ACTUATORS: A DIFFERENT APPROACH

Kyntronics’ primary actuator technology is the Hybrid Linear Actuator, which provides a robust alternative to electro-mechanical actuators. While both types of actuators convert energy into mechanical force for linear motion, Kyntronics actuators have distinct advantages.

SIMILARITIES BETWEEN KYNTRONICS ACTUATORS AND ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ACTUATORS

There are several similarities between Kyntronics’ Hybrid Linear Actuators and electro-mechanical actuators, including:

  1. Power on Demand: Both actuator types use power on demand, ensuring energy efficiency compared to traditional hydraulic systems.
  2. Precision Control: Both Kyntronics and electro-mechanical actuators can be precisely programmed and controlled for position, force, speed, and dwell. This capability makes them suitable for industrial applications where accurate movement is essential.
  3. Fieldbus Integration: Kyntronics actuators, like electro-mechanical actuators, can be connected to standard fieldbus networks, enabling seamless integration with existing control systems.

 

 

KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN KYNTRONICS HYBRID ACTUATORS AND ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ACTUATORS

While both Kyntronics and electro-mechanical actuators offer precision and programmability, there are significant differences:

  1. Durability and Shock Load Resistance: Kyntronics Hybrid actuators feature an integral cylinder design that operates with minimal fluid. This design allows them to withstand shock loads, side loading, and end-stop crashes without damage—conditions that expose electro-mechanical actuators to failure due to their more fragile components.
  2. Maintenance: Kyntronics actuators do not experience metal-to-metal wear, reducing the need for regular maintenance. In contrast, electro-mechanical actuators, such as ball screw actuators and roller screw actuators, require regular lubrication to prolong their operating life.
  3. Force Capacity and Stroke Length: Kyntronics actuators are available in much higher force ratings—up to 150,000 lbs. (667 kN) with stroke lengths extending up to 120 inches (3,048 mm). This makes Kyntronics actuators more suitable for heavy-duty applications such as hydraulic replacement.
  4. Cost-Effectiveness at Higher Force Levels: When compared to roller screw actuators,  Kyntronics Hybrid actuators are more cost-effective at higher force ratings, making them an economical choice for high-load applications.

 

KYNTRONICS HYBRID ACTUATORS VS.  ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ACTUATOR TYPES

Feature Roller Screw Actuators Ball Screw Actuators Kyntronics Hybrid Actuators
Precision High Moderate High
Shock Load Resistance Low – Vulnerable to shock loads Low – Limited durability High – Built to withstand impact
Maintenance Requirements Regular lubrication required Regular lubrication required Minimal – No metal-to-metal wear
Force Capacity Moderate Moderate High – Up to 150,000 lbs.
Stroke Length Limited Moderate High – Up to 120 inches
Cost at Higher Force Levels Expensive Moderate Most cost-effective

 

KYNTRONICS HYBRID LINEAR ACTUATORS AS A SUPERIOR ALTERNATIVE

While electro-mechanical actuators, including roller screw and ball screw actuators, offer precision and programmability, Kyntronics Hybrid actuators provide several advantages in terms of durability, energy efficiency, maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. Kyntronics’ actuators are built to handle heavy loads, high duty cycles, and harsh environments, making them ideal for a wide range of industrial applications.