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Episode # 67: What is a Hydraulic Actuator?
What is a Hydraulic Actuator?
If you have any questions or are just looking for some help, we're happy to discuss your application with you. Reach out to us at (855) 737-4716 or fill out our online form.
- Not much different than pneumatic actuators as discussed in Episode 66.
- Basic motion actuation for fluid power
- Key differences
- Pneumatics use air. Hydraulics use liquid.
- Devon Hyatt, specialist in fluid power, expands on the differences
- Pneumatics use air. Hydraulics use liquid.
- Air is compressible. Liquids are not.
- Results in higher forces from hydraulics
- Do hydraulic actuators also have single-acting and double-acting options?
- Yes, Devon Hyatt explains further.
- Do hydraulic actuator types also include rod, rod-less, rotary and gripper?
- Devon explains that, while there isn’t really a rod-less type, there are many different types
- Are there also ISO and NFPA versions of hydraulic actuators?
- Yes
- What are open versus closed-loop hydraulic systems?
- Open-loop systems take liquid from and return it to a reservoir with a breather
- Closed-loop systems uses a recirculation pump instead while containing the liquid entirely within it and the hoses going to the actuator
- Do hydraulic actuators also have single-acting and double-acting options?
- When would I use hydraulics over pneumatics?
- To insure constant force
- To produce higher forces
- To absorb higher vibration or shock loads
- System Components needed to move a hydraulic actuator
- Provide liquid flow
- Engine or motor plus a pump
- Control the liquid to the actuators
- Valves and flow controls
- Make sure the liquid is clean
- Filter and regulate
- Provide liquid flow
- Pros of hydraulic actuators
- High force-to-size ratio
- Shock absorbent
- Great for mobile equipment
- Simplicity
- Cons of hydraulic actuators
- Components wear out making for short life cycles
- Fluid quality maintenance
- Low efficiency
- Leaks are messy
- Low accuracy
- Limited cylinder positions
If you have any questions or are just looking for some help, we're happy to discuss your application with you. Reach out to us at (855) 737-4716 or fill out our online form.
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