Maintenance-free and easy to install, the electric linear actuator is a must-have device in the manufacturing of equipment for all sectors. We will tell you all about the electric linear actuator, how it works, and the different types of electric actuators along with their advantages.
An electric linear actuator is an electromechanical device mainly composed of a motor, a set of gears, and a motion mechanism in the form of a worm and tube. It converts the motor’s rotary motion into linear motion by driving the gears and worm gear.
It can be integrated into any equipment to push, pull, lift, lower, position, or orient a load.
Easy to install and operate, electric linear actuators can be found in most everyday equipment. They are maintenance-free and provide a clean, highly controllable alternative to hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
If you want to know more about the different components of an electric actuator, please read our dedicated article.
There are many types of electric linear actuators. Actuators, columns, gear motors, and others all have their specificities and their strong points. Discover below the list of the different types of actuators that we produce and adapt to the needs of equipment manufacturers.
The motor is parallel to the worm gear. Parallel electric linear actuators are usually driven by spur gears, which offer a wider range of gear ratios. These actuators allow for a greater range of loads and speeds but aren’t as quiet as actuators with worm gearing.
The motor is placed perpendicular to the worm gear. A worm gear usually drives L-shaped electric linear actuators. These actuators offer fewer gear ratio choices than spur gear motors but are quieter and offer increased irreversible force.
The motor is in line with the worm gear. In-line electric linear actuators, therefore, have a longer retracted length. They are usually driven by a set of planetary gears and are specifically designed to fit into tight spaces. However, they have a higher noise level.
Dual motors operate in two different directions, independently or simultaneously. They are usually driven by gears with a worm wheel and, therefore, offer a quieter movement.
Electric slide actuators allow linear movement without the use of an outer tube. The front attachment is linked to the nut, which moves along the worm gear.
Discover our entire range of electric linear actuators.
Gearmotors allow the design of economic and versatile systems when combined with one or more worms. Compact, they are usually driven by gears with a worm wheel and are an ideal choice for achieving mechanical synchronization.
Discover our entire range of geared motors.
We manufacture lifting columns for industrial, medical, and ergonomic applications. They allow the vertical movement of high loads while maintaining a high level of stability. Our industrial and medical columns are designed for applications such as medical beds, bariatric beds, or industrial workstations with adjustable heights. Thus, they preserve the safety and comfort of all users.
We also offer a range of ergonomic columns that comply with the BIFMA standard for variable-height offices. This range offers different colors, shapes, orientations, and a 2 or 3-tier design.
Discover our entire range of electrical columns.
We provide electric frames for height adjustment of desks and worktops. Available in several shapes and colors, they allow the design of sit-stand, straight, parallel, angled, or 120° desks. Delivered in pre-assembled kits, they offer quick and easy assembly. With smooth, quiet movement, the electric frames are the ideal solution for ergonomic desks in the workplace and at home.
Discover our entire range of pre-assembled kits for ergonomic desks.
You now know more about how electric actuators work, the different types of actuators, and their advantages. Find out how to choose an electric actuator according to your needs and constraints.
With more than 15 years of experience in the manufacturing of electric actuation devices, TiMOTION supports equipment manufacturers from all sectors in their product development projects. Industry, medical, domestic, or professional furniture, we manufacture complete solutions and customize our devices to the specific needs of our customers.
Want to learn more about electric linear actuators? Contact a local sales representative