helix linear - blog - linear actuators

Although the term “linear actuator” can be defined broadly as any mechanical device that converts energy into controlled, straight-line motion, the definition narrows in the context of devices used for medical treatment and biomedical/chemical research.

Linear actuators have a variety of applications depending on the industry. Helix Linear's actuators can be used for any application requiring linear motion. Our actuators are pre-engineered, assembled, tested and ready to use making it the best economical and time sensitive approach to low cost automation. While we’re sure you’re thinking, “That’s great!” And it is, we’re sure there are many more questions to answer so keep scrolling below to find your answers.

We have all been there – you saw a great idea and thought “I can do that”. Whether it was a repair on your car, a landscaping project in your backyard, or even a craft idea for your house, we have all had a DIY project go wrong.

Take a small linear actuator, for instance. Simply put, it is a device that creates a linear or straight motion. Its compact size allows it to fit into tight compartments, better enabling complex applications such as stage lighting systems, robotic control and AC dampers in HVAC systems to perform linear motion tasks.

There are more hospital beds than nurses and doctors in any given hospital. As the gap continues to grow, so does the need for more efficient, automated hospital beds to help save time and resources.

When it comes to actuators for motion control applications, there are several types to choose from. These include pneumatic, hydraulic, electric, or electro-mechanical.

Engineers can choose from various technologies such as electrical (electro-mechanical), hydraulic or pneumatic technologies when selecting linear actuators for motion control applications. In nearly all cases, an electrical actuator will prove to be the better choice due to a unique combination of characteristics.

Until the recent emergence of new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) demands for green buildings, the HVAC industry historically developed systems and supporting ductwork that were designed for overcapacity.

The reason electric linear actuators are a preferred choice for converting rotary motion into linear motion is that they have many advantages.

In short, a linear actuator is a device that creates linear (straight) motion. From highly complex applications to the simplest button pressing application, small linear actuators are used everywhere!