Linear actuator technology such as alternative linear actuators is used throughout this specific industry for moving, positioning, clamping, and guiding components, assemblies, finished products and tooling mechanisms.  From electronics pick-and-place equipment to test instruments and scanners used in the medical sector, and from materials handling and gantry systems to food processing and packaging lines, they are all typical alternative linear actuator applications.  

The need that exists to not only improve productivity but also to reduce operating overheads as well as automate previously manual processes has led to the introduction of products that are faster, smaller and more cost-effective than ever before.  The launch of alternative linear actuators, in particular, is enabling those working in the industry to benefit from quicker specification, installation and setup, reduced maintenance requirements, longer product life and enhanced system performance.

Although there are various types of alternative linear actuators, the simplest are those constructed from a slide mechanism on which a carriage is mounted.  This effectively acts as a platform on which the work piece or operating mechanism can be fixed and normally moves by means of rollers, bearings or wheels.

Find below some advantages and disadvantages of Alternative Linear Actuators:

Advantages of Alternative Linear Actuators:

• Alternative linear actuators are simple, low-cost devices that can provide a high level of speed and acceleration.
• Alternative linear actuators offer excellent stiffness with a reasonable combination of precision and resolution.
• Alternative linear actuators are extremely precise.
• Alternative linear actuators deliver high speed and acceleration.
• Alternative linear actuators are virtually maintenance-free.
• Alternative linear actuators have a long operating life.
• The adaptable nature of alternative linear actuators enables them to be used in either a standard or modified form in a wide range of plant and machinery.
• Alternative linear actuators are capable of moving at speeds of up to 5m/s.
• Alternative linear actuators can support loads of 1600kg with a thrust force of over 5000N.
• Alternative linear actuators offer levels of repeatability that are within +/-0.05mm.
• Alternative linear actuators have the ability to use either synthetic load bearing wheels or hardened steel wheels.

Disadvantages of Alternative Linear Actuators:

• Alternative linear actuators are limited in terms of accuracy.
• Alternative linear actuators are limited by the mechanical performance of the drive components.