Choosing the Correct Heavy - Duty Linear Actuator

There are many types of actuation technologies available but only certain types can reliably handle the high force requirements, extended stroke length, robust operation and environmental hardening of heavy-duty industrial and mobile applications. In these cases, selecting the appropriate heavy-duty linear actuator is vital for achieving the desired outcome in these highly demanding situations.

Heavy-duty linear actuators are often found in applications that require extremely high power (generally >5,000 Lbs. of force), tolerance for shock loads and side loading, longer stroke lengths, minimal maintenance and higher Ingress Protection (IP) ratings. Heavy-duty linear actuators often endure extremely harsh conditions and high-duty cycles like those found in metal fabrication, presses, aerospace and defense equipment, material testing, lifting and many other applications.

Until recently, heavy-duty actuator applications have generally utilized traditional hydraulics, i.e. hydraulic cylinders powered by a hydraulic power unit through hoses and connections. Screw-type actuators referred to as electro-mechanical actuators (EMA) such as ball screw and roller screw types are sometimes used but they are quite expensive at forces above 5,000 Lbs. and typically max out at 50,000 Lbs. force. Both of these actuation technologies have shortcomings that are important to take into account when deciding on the best actuation solution. (see our blog article comparing these technologies).

An alternative to traditional hydraulics and EMAs for heavy-duty applications is the Kyntronics self-contained electro-hydraulic linear actuator (SHA). The SHA eliminates the disadvantages of traditional hydraulics such as leak risk and high maintenance while retaining the robustness that traditional hydraulics provide. The SHA eliminates the risk of failure from metal-to-metal wear, shock loads, vibration and side loading that adversely affect EMAs.

The Kyntronics SHA addresses the requirements of heavy-duty applications by providing actuators that are long-lasting, reliable, low maintenance, powerful and robust. It combines the power of hydraulics with the precision and versatility of electric servo control.

Proper actuator sizing and safety features are critical in any actuation application, particularly heavy-duty situations. Kyntronics engineers work closely with our customers upfront to properly size the actuator or actuation system for optimal performance taking account factors such as duty cycle, heat management, load profiles and control integration to provide predicative maintenance data. The SHA also incorporates relief valves and thermal sensors that protect the actuator and machine from overload conditions.

Kyntronics actuator products are available with up to 150,000 Lbs. of force and can be configured as a total solution including actuator, motor, controls, and cables to meet a wide variety of application requirements. SHA systems provide closed-loop servo control of position, speed, and force and are offered in stroke lengths up to 120 in. We work with you upfront to configure our products to best meet your particular application requirements to achieve optimal performance and longevity.

Interested in learning more about our SMART heavy-duty linear actuators? Check out our website for a full rundown of all the applications we serve and available configurations.