What is an Actuator? From Basics to Effective Utilization

Actuators are essential components for driving machinery, primarily including electric actuators and air cylinders. Electric actuators utilize electric motors for precise positioning and speed control, while air cylinders leverage compressed air to produce linear, oscillating, and rotary motion. On the manufacturing floor, these actuators ensure accurate control of various machines, playing a crucial role in automation and labor reduction. This article delves into actuator features, types, and selection criteria, showcasing CKD's comprehensive product and service offerings.

What is an Actuator?

An actuator is a drive component that transforms electrical, air, or oil pressure energy into mechanical motion. These actuators are categorized as electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic, based on their respective energy sources. Pneumatic and hydraulic actuators commonly utilize cylinders and are therefore often referred to as air cylinders and hydraulic cylinders. Actuators are vital components across diverse industries, including automotive, semiconductor, food processing, robotics, and medical.

Actuator Fundamentals

Actuators are essential components for driving machinery, primarily including electric actuators and air cylinders. Let's explore the fundamental mechanisms and various types of each actuator.

Electric Actuators

Electric actuators are core mechanical components in industrial machinery and automation systems. They convert rotational force from an electric motor into linear or rotational motion, enabling control over position, speed, torque, and more.

Basic Mechanism

An electric actuator primarily consists of a motor and a transmission mechanism. Precise control over the motor's rotational angle allows for positioning at any point within the stroke.

Types of Electric Actuators

Electric actuators are available with or without an integrated motor. Integrated motor types feature built-in stepper or servo motors, while motorless types can be controlled using your preferred motor. Both types offer precise positioning capabilities. Furthermore, electric actuators are categorized into slider, rod, gripper, guided, rotary, and stopper types, based on their drive mechanism and function.

Air Cylinders

Air cylinders are actuators powered by compressed air. Utilizing readily available compressed air in factories and other settings, air cylinders generate linear or oscillating motion, contributing to automation and labor savings.

Basic Mechanism

An air cylinder comprises components like a cylinder tube, piston, and piston rod. Its operation involves a simple mechanism: compressed air controls the piston and its connected piston rod. Compressed air supplied to the piston's head-side port pushes the piston, transferring force outward through the piston rod. Conversely, compressed air supplied to the rod-side port retracts the piston and piston rod.

Types of Air Cylinders

Common air cylinder types include standard, space-saving, guided, brake (with lock), and rodless.

Electric Actuators vs. Air Cylinders: Key Differences

Understanding the characteristics of each type is crucial for selecting the optimal actuator for your specific application.

Type	Air Cylinders	Electric Actuators
Advantages	High force in a compact size Compact Design Lightweight Simple Control High Speed Low Cost	Easy multi-point positioning Precise control of operation Stable Operation Versatile Applications Low Maintenance Frequency IoT Compatibilitys
Disadvantages	Limited precise control Challenging for multi-point transport and positioning	High initial cost Complex Control Large size
Suitable Applications	Press-fitting processes not requiring precise force control High-speed movement or positioning between two points Heavy load transport	Handling diverse and delicate workpieces Multi-point positioning Press-fitting processes requiring force adjustment

What is a superior actuator?

Actuators are evaluated based on various criteria. What is a superior actuator like? Let's delve into the specific points to consider when evaluating actuators.

Electric Actuators

For electric actuators, the following factors are key criteria:

Accuracy	The primary advantage of electric actuators lies in their ability to precisely control movement. Accuracy is paramount.
Positioning Accuracy	Accurate positioning capabilities are crucial for building efficient and reliable systems. CKD products offer high positioning accuracy of ±0.01mm for transport applications.
Agility	A superior actuator can be said to be excellent if the acceleration/deceleration time that can be supported is short, and the acceleration/deceleration speed is high.
Force	The ability to grip and transport workpieces with appropriate force, based on their specific requirements, is vital.
Energy Efficiency	High energy efficiency is a mark of exceptional performance, reducing operating costs and minimizing environmental impact.
Rigidity	High rigidity prevents dimensional changes under external force, minimizing the risk of damage and enhancing performance.
Service Life	A longer service life translates to reduced maintenance costs and labor requirements. CKD actuators are renowned for their durability, with some models boasting expected service lives exceeding 5,000 km.
Space Efficiency	Compactly designed actuators provide value by enhancing design flexibility and simplifying installation.

As demonstrated, there are several items available for determining superior electric actuators, so it is important to select the best model for your application.

Air Cylinders

For air cylinders, the following factors are crucial:

Operating Speed	Speed requirements vary depending on the application. Maintaining stability at low speeds is technically challenging. CKD offers a range of low-speed and fine-speed cylinders that deliver smooth, stick-slip-free operation.
Lightweight and Compact Design	A lightweight, compact design is essential for ease of handling and efficient space utilization.
Service Life	As with electric actuators, longer service life is a hallmark of a superior air cylinder.
Environmental Compatibility	Air cylinders are typically susceptible to outdoor conditions, dust, and dry environments. Selecting suitable products for these conditions is crucial.
Air Consumption	Lower air consumption translates to reduced operating costs.
Rigidity	Similar to electric actuators, high rigidity is essential for ensuring stable operation and accuracy in air cylinders.
Accuracy	Stroke tolerance, in particular, is a key factor for applications demanding high precision.

Like electric actuators, the suitability of an air cylinder depends on the application. A comprehensive product lineup catering to diverse needs and offering environmentally friendly options is crucial.
Given these critical criteria, selecting the optimal air cylinder for your specific environment and application is essential.

The Vital Role of Actuators in Manufacturing Lines

Actuators are crucial components that significantly impact production line efficiency and productivity. In manufacturing, actuators play a vital role in precisely controlling various machines, enabling automation of tasks such as assembly, quality inspection, and packaging. Actuators are designed for long-term use once integrated into machinery or equipment. Peripheral components are designed to accommodate various actuator specifications, including dimensions and stroke. Careful actuator selection is paramount, as an incorrect choice can have far-reaching consequences.

Choosing the Right Actuator for Your Process: CKD Recommendations

As outlined above, each actuator type possesses unique characteristics. Electric actuators excel in applications demanding precise control, while air cylinders are well-suited for tasks involving two-point operations, heavy load transport, or high-speed operation.
Here's a guide to selecting the ideal actuator for your specific process.

Handling process

In handling processes, ensuring secure workpiece gripping is crucial to prevent damage and drops during transport. Air hands offer lightweight handling solutions, while electric actuators are recommended for delicate or diverse workpieces to avoid damage.

Conveyance process

Transport processes prioritize efficiency in moving products and components to subsequent stages.Positioning accuracy, speed, and workpiece weight are key factors in actuator selection for transport.Air cylinders excel in rapid transport of heavy loads, while electric actuators are ideal for stable speed and precise positioning.

Clamping process

Key considerations for clamping processes include clamping speed and shock absorption. Air cylinders are well-suited for clamping rigid workpieces due to their high force and rapid actuation. Electric actuators, with adjustable pressing force, are ideal for shockless clamping of delicate workpieces.

Press-fitting process

Press-fitting processes require careful consideration of pressing force and speed when selecting actuators. Air cylinders are suitable for high-force press-fitting applications. Electric actuators, offering force control, are well-suited for press-fitting diverse workpieces.

Oscillating process

When choosing actuators for oscillating transport, speed and impact are critical factors. Air cylinders, with their high-speed operation, are ideal for applications prioritizing speed. Electric actuators, with their speed control capability, are well-suited for shockless operation.

CKD Actuator Lineup

Explore CKD's Comprehensive Actuator Lineup

Electric Actuators

CKD electric actuators are categorized into two types: with integrated motor and motorless. Here are the key features of various CKD actuators:

Slider Type (with Integrated Motor)	Primarily utilizes a ball screw and linear guide for precise linear slider movement. High positioning accuracy and responsiveness make it ideal for general transport and assembly applications.
Slider Type (Motorless)	Shares similar features with the integrated motor type. Offers flexibility in control by allowing integration with various motor brands.
Rod Type (with Integrated Motor)	Employs a ball screw mechanism to extend and retract the piston rod. Commonly used for press-fitting and lifting applications.
Rod Type (Motorless)	Shares similar features with the integrated motor type. Provides control flexibility by allowing integration with diverse motor brands.
Table Type (with Integrated Motor)	Ideal for short-stroke workpiece transport and positioning. Compact design eliminates the need for a shock absorber.
Rotary Type (with Integrated Motor)	Enables multi-point positioning, reversing, indexing, and other versatile operations. Space-saving design eliminates the need for a shock absorber.
Gripper Type (with Integrated Motor)	Available in two-finger (for rectangular workpieces) and three-finger (for round workpieces) configurations.
Guided Type (with Integrated Motor)	The electric actuator equivalent of a guided pneumatic cylinder. Shares the same body as pneumatic counterparts, ensuring high rigidity and durability.
Stopper Type (with Integrated Motor)	Used to temporarily halt products on conveyors for operations like press-fitting or inspection.
SCARA Robot (with Integrated Motor)	Specializes in high-speed horizontal transfer of lightweight objects. Used for automated assembly tasks like part insertion and screw tightening, as well as lightweight palletizing.

Air Cylinders

CKD offers a diverse range of air cylinders to meet various application needs. Here are the key features of various CKD air cylinders:

Standard Cylinder	The most common design, featuring a cylindrical body. Cost-effective to manufacture and suitable for a wide range of applications.
Space-Saving Cylinder	Ideal for compact spaces due to its shorter stroke compared to standard cylinders. Its affordability and high production volume contribute to its popularity.
Guided Cylinder	Ensures precise linear piston movement via a guide mechanism. The guide enhances piston stability. Recommended for precise positioning, specialized operations, or applications where lateral forces act on the piston rod.
Cylinder with Linear Guide	Incorporates a high-precision linear guide for smooth movement and exceptional positioning accuracy. Ideal for precise applications. Commonly used in semiconductor manufacturing and assembly processes.
Rodless Cylinder	Its rodless design reduces overall length, conserving space. Well-suited for applications requiring minimized movement or length.
Cylinder with Integrated Valve	Compactly integrates a valve. Some types offer a choice between lubricated and non-lubricated operation.
Cylinder with Brake/Lock	Features integrated brakes for enhanced control. Enables precise piston stopping at specific positions. Used for safety in applications requiring precise stopping positions or as a safeguard against power supply issues.
High-Speed Cylinder	Capable of high-speed operation (2000-3000 mm/s) with high energy absorption. Suitable for mold ejection in resin molding and similar applications.
Specialized Cylinder	Engineered to meet unique customer requirements. Handles non-standard conditions and demanding specifications.
Clamp Cylinder	Secures workpieces in specific positions. Offers options like drop prevention mechanisms and clamp levers.
Oscillating/Rotary Cylinder	Provides oscillating or limited rotary motion. Used in positioning and adjustment operations.
Cylinder with Length Measurement	Integrates a linear scale sensor into a compact cylinder. Enables simultaneous workpiece operation and measurement/discrimination tasks.
Hand & Chuck	Offers a wide range, including parallel, fulcrum, and length-measuring hand types.

CKD: Your Partner for Actuator Selection

Only CKD, with its expertise in both pneumatic and electric actuation, can provide such a comprehensive actuator offering. CKD has implemented an internal "Meister" program for electric actuators, signifying a high level of expertise. Our Meisters leverage their expertise and CKD's broad product range to help customers select the ideal actuator. CKD employs numerous nationally certified pneumatic device assembly technicians. Trust CKD for expert guidance from air cylinder selection to complete system design. CKD's model selection system streamlines the process, saving valuable design time. On-site demonstrations are also available.
CKD provides comprehensive support throughout the entire process, from pre-installation to post-installation. Our specialists possess deep knowledge of the factory automation field, providing effective solutions to your challenges.

Summary

Actuators are essential elements at the heart of manufacturing and automation systems, serving a wide range of applications. As we've explored, electric actuators and air cylinders each have unique characteristics, making it crucial to choose the right type for your specific application. When facing actuator selection challenges, consult with CKD, experts in actuator selection with a comprehensive product portfolio.
Beyond product development and supply, CKD provides improvement suggestions and post-implementation support, tailoring automation solutions to your specific needs and challenges.