To ask for this question it is important to remember the main principle of the direct current electric linear actuators. These mechanisms have two contacts for the current connection. The direction of movement of the rod: contraction & retraction is carried out by changing the polarity. When voltage is supplied it causes the rod movement. Inside the actuator, there are two end-of-stroke microswitches, so that in the extreme positions of the rod, the motor stops even when the power is supplied.
The DC linear actuators type of linear motion automation technologies is widely implemented in different modern spheres of machine-building, factories, assembly lines, etc. Linear actuators serve as an effective alternative to hydraulic or pneumatic products. They allow implementation with microcontrollers, which makes them extremely convenient when there is a need to make the repetitive kind of work without human presence. In other words, electric linear automation helps to decrease the amount of arduous manual work so often required in terms of manufacturing processes. To wire the electric linear actuator you need to connect it with electric relay and the external power supply. Linear actuators are usually quite compact devices, that represent the complete positioning system with an integrated DC motor, gearbox, and a retractable rod. The motors of these electric devices are powered with a DC source of energy of 12, 24, and 36 V. Power supplies can be supplied separately. However, most of the manufacturers and distributors usually offer them on their websites along with each electric linear actuator.
Nowadays there is a variety of direct current electric linear actuators on the global market. For each particular case, craftsmen now can find the actuator with all exact technical specifications wanted: the required load capacity, speed of the rod movement, stroke length, and even with a convenient complete control interface. The range of actuators’ implementation is quite huge. In most cases, linear actuators are used as components: control mechanisms for shutters, hatches, roofs, doors, etc. In addition, actuators are used to move cameras in closed circuit systems, in various technological and industrial equipment.
The appropriate work of the electric actuator is always connected to the work of the electric relay attached as it performs the switch function. Relays have advantages as any device. Primarily, they don’t have to be turned on & off manually as in case of switches. Secondly, their installation requires a little space as their dimensions are comparatively small.
When it comes to the best design of the electric linear actuator mechanism it is merely impossible to do without the electric relay. This device is capable to control equipment by means of electric signals. There are few types of electric relays: normally closed and normally opened. In a normally closed position, contacts are connected to the power supply when the actuation terminals are energized, but in normally closed relays contacts connected to the power supply only when the actuation terminals are not connected.
Electric relays have the mechanical and the electrical parts, thus this device can be regarded as the electromechanical one. They control the direction of the linear actuator movement. Using the input electricity, the relay activates the electromagnet. This allows flowing the higher current at the opposite side of the relay. Most of the electric relays working along with electric linear actuators require an only 5V power supply. That is why with factually low energy consumption electric relay force linear actuators to produce the unbelievably significant amount of work. Wiring everything together would not take a rocket scientist. This is the reason why electric linear actuator solutions are so popular among homeowners to implement them for domestic purposes. Join those people and feel the practice of using actuators for your own projects.