Smart Actuator Selection for Test Systems – Power & Motion

Kyntronics is pleased to share its latest technical article contribution to Power & Motion, written by Carl Richter, President of Kyntronics. The article explores the critical considerations engineers face when selecting actuation technology for test benches and laboratory systems used in product development, validation, durability testing, and lifecycle testing.

With test systems often required to deliver consistent, reliable performance over extended testing periods, choosing the right actuator involves more than meeting force, speed, and stroke requirements. Engineers must also consider reliability, flexibility, data acquisition, implementation time, energy consumption, and long-term operating costs.

Key highlights from the article include:

• Six critical design considerations: Understand how downtime, test stand flexibility, data reliability, capital investment, engineering time, and operating costs influence actuator selection.
• Matching technology to test requirements: Evaluate hydraulic, electromechanical, and hybrid actuation based on test profiles, force and speed requirements, duty cycle, control needs, and environmental conditions.
• Improving test system performance: Explore how programmable motion, feedback, and communication capabilities can support repeatable testing and reliable data collection.
• Evaluating hybrid actuation: Learn how hybrid linear actuators combine hydraulic power density and load-handling capabilities with electric servo control, while power-on-demand operation can help reduce energy use and heat generation during extended testing.

Selecting the right actuation technology early in the design process can help test engineers build systems that meet current requirements while accommodating future testing needs.