Actuators are highly efficient in industrial automation and machinery and serve various processes. Hydraulic actuators have advantages and considerations compared to their analogs and other actuators. This article will explore what is, how it works, benefits, and potential drawbacks of hydraulic actuators.
What Is A Hydraulic Actuator?
A hydraulic actuator is a device that converts fluid pressure energy into mechanical energy. It consists of cylinders used for various mechanical operations by imparting linear, rotary, or oscillatory motion. Fluids can exert great force, making hydraulic actuators powerful tools in many applications.
Working Principle Of Hydraulic Actuator
A hydraulic actuator uses pressure to provide force on a diaphragm. For mechanical power, all hydraulic actuators use pistons rather than diaphragms. Many hydraulic actuators use pistons rather than diaphragms to convert fluid pressure into mechanical energy.
Types Of Hydraulic Actuators
1. Linear Actuator:
Linear actuators convert rotational motion into push or pull linear motion. these are used to lift, drop, slide, or tilt many devices.
2. Rotary Actuator:
A rotary actuator converts energy into torque through rotary motion. Rotary actuators are commonly used in industrial and manufacturing settings. It is used to control valves, gates, and other mechanical systems. All of them require linear movement.
3. Semi-Rotary Actuator:
A semi-rotary actuator is used to actuate a partial angle of motion. It can be used for partial angular movements. It can be used for a complete revolution through 360 degrees.
Advantages Of Hydraulic Actuator
Hydraulic linear actuators are popular for good reason.
1. Simple Design
Hydraulic actuators are simple in design and use very simple technology.
2. Rugged Construction
They can be durable and can handle shock loads when deployed in the right application.
3. Affordable
Hydraulic cylinders are very cost-effective.
4. High Force Capabilities
Hydraulic systems can efficiently generate significant force, making them ideal for applications requiring significant power output, such as construction machinery and industrial settings. For example, 3-inch and 5-inch bore cylinders can achieve approximately 15,000 lbf at 2200 psi.
Disadvantages Of Hydraulic Actuator
1. Temperature Sensitivity
Hydraulic actuators are used in both hot and cold temperatures. Heat can destroy hydraulic actuator seals, while cold temperatures thicken system oil and slow response.
2. Limited Motion Control Capabilities
Hydraulic actuators struggle with multiple stops and velocity changes in motion. They can control the consistency of position, speed, and force when the pump is subjected to pressure changes.
3. Inflexibility
Basic hydraulic actuators are simple but rigid in functionality, lacking programmability. Force adjustment, speed, and other parameters should be done manually. Servo-hydraulic actuators offer programmability, allowing for precise control, but have more components, which increases complexity, consumes more space, and increases cost.
4. High Maintenance
Hydraulic cylinders require high maintenance for continuous operation. Regular oil and filter changes are crucial because old or dirty oil can degrade system performance. This routine maintenance ensures that your system works efficiently and extends its life.
5. Large System Footprint
Hydraulic actuator systems consume a lot of space. While hydraulic cylinders do not take up much space where they work, the hydraulic power unit (HPU) that controls the flow and pressure of the cylinders requires a large area. The system consists of a cylinder, a power unit that pumps the oil, various control valves, filters, hoses, fittings, and other parts.
Hydraulic Actuators Applications
Hydraulic actuators are used in many powerful machines and equipment. Here are some of their common applications:
- High-Force Applications: It is suitable for tasks that require a lot of power.
- Machinery: You will find it in cranes, winches, self-propelled cranes, and excavators.
- Military Vehicles: They power wheel motors.
- Industrial equipment: Used for feeder drive, agitator drive, mixer, roll mill, trammels, kilns, drum drive for digesters, and shredders for cars and tires.
- Construction Equipment: It’s in drilling rigs, high-powered lawn trimmers, and trench cutters.
- Hydraulic Jack: For lifting heavy loads.
- Precise Position: Ideal for moving heavy loads with high precision.
- Hydraulic Brakes: To control speed with precision.
- Hydraulic Rams: They can also act as sensors.
In simple terms, hydraulic actuators convert fluid pressure into mechanical motion. Fluid pressure forces the piston, which moves and acts.
Final Words
Each type of actuator has its pros and cons and it is important to consider these when choosing the right one for your project. The first step is to identify the essential features for your needs, which will help you eliminate any actuators that don’t fit the bill. When choosing between two actuators that both work well for the job, consider the total cost not just the purchase price, but maintenance, repair, and any associated risks.
Choosing a reliable company is also key to ensuring you get the best results. Discrete Circuits is a leading name in electric linear actuators, working with a global team focused on creating innovative products for industries such as PCB, embedded systems, assembly work, power electronics, and sensor services. We believe that the right technology can solve almost any problem, and customizable electric linear actuators are increasingly preferred over older systems such as pneumatics and hydraulics. At Discrete Circuits, we aim to provide high-quality, customizable products at reasonable prices.
