Well, the design features of electric linear actuators mean they are able to deliver enhanced performance levels while also achieving lower total energy consumption. In fact, based on trials, savings of €3,200 can be anticipated for a typical single-actuator application over a two-year period.
Two steps become one
In pneumatic systems, two steps are necessary to produce compressed air: electricity first produces air, before air pressure is converted into linear movement using a pneumatic cylinder. Similarly, two stages are required in a traditional electric solution, namely converting motor rotation to the movement of the electric actuator.
Electric linear motor actuators Parker ETT Series Machine Design
However, this double step can be reduced, with subsequent energy savings, by using a linear motor rod-style actuator solution such as a Parker ETT series unit, which is able to directly generate linear motion through the principle of electro-magnetism.
Another favourable attribute of an electric linear motor actuator compared versus a pneumatic actuator solution is the precise positioning achievable along its entire stroke. On-board feedback via an integrated analogue linear position sensor allows positioning precision to within 0.05mm.
Advantages of electric actuators: significant savings potential
The technical advantages of the latest electric linear motor actuators are clear, but what about the cost comparison we hear you ask?
Well, consider electric actuators applications and performance. A typical application involving the transfer of a 15kg load at 30 cycles per minute, for example. Here, a pneumatic cylinder solution would work with a pressure of approximately 2 bar, while the Parker ETT linear motor actuator solution consumes just 30W of electricity every cycle. Sure, the initial start-up cost for the electric actuator solution is higher than its pneumatic counterpart, but the cumulative energy cost savings mean your initial investment would be recouped well within one year.
Moreover, just 24 months after start-up, savings will have increased to around €3,200. This savings is for just one actuator—if you multiply the number of actuators found on a typical production line it's easy to see the vast savings possible.
Learn more
Article contributed by Alessandro Porro, product manager, Motors, Electromechanical Division Europe, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
Disclaimer
Licensing for these images came with permission from the Parker Hannifin Media Manager collection.
Article reposted with Parker Hannifin's permission.