Electric actuators instead of pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders

Electric linear actuators are increasingly used instead of pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders when a cleaner, more precise and easier-to-control motion solution is required. They do not require a compressed air or hydraulic oil system, which can reduce leakage risk, maintenance, energy losses and environmental impact.

An electric actuator can be controlled by a simple extend / retract command or by more advanced control logic: position feedback, current limitation, speed control, synchronization or communication with a controller. This makes electric actuators suitable both for simple mechanical adjustment and for more advanced automated systems.

How does an electric linear actuator work?

A typical electric linear actuator consists of an electric motor, gearbox, screw, nut, housing, end fittings and, depending on the model, integrated electronics or feedback. The rotary motion of the motor is converted into linear motion through the gearbox and screw mechanism, allowing the actuator to extend or retract.

This construction makes it possible to control stroke, load and movement speed more precisely compared with a basic pneumatic cylinder. Some Thomson actuators include integrated electronics for position feedback, CAN communication, synchronization, diagnostics or additional protection functions.

Main selection criteria

• Load / force – how much force is required for pushing or pulling;
• Stroke – the required travel distance in millimeters;
• Speed – how fast the actuator must move under load;
• Duty cycle – how long the actuator operates and how long it rests;
• Supply voltage – 12 VDC, 24 VDC, 48 VDC, AC or another system voltage;
• Control method – simple switch, relays, analog signal, CAN, LIN or another protocol;
• Feedback – potentiometer, encoder, Hall sensors or integrated electronics;
• Environmental conditions – dust, moisture, washdown, outdoor use, corrosion or temperature;
• Mounting position – horizontal, vertical, angled, with or without side loads;
• Safety requirements – braking, load holding, overload protection or emergency stop logic.

Where are Thomson electric actuators used?

Thomson electric actuators are used in many applications where reliable and controlled linear motion is required. They are suitable for industrial machinery, mobile equipment, energy systems, medical equipment and special-purpose machine designs.

• packaging and production machinery;
• agricultural and mobile equipment;
• conveyors, gates, valves and adjustment mechanisms;
• solar tracking and energy systems;
• medical and ergonomic equipment;
• marine environments and outdoor installations;
• transport, lifting and positioning systems;
• special-purpose OEM machines.

When to choose different Thomson actuator series?

Electrak XD is suitable when very high force, high duty cycle, long stroke and intelligent electronics are required. It is especially relevant for hydraulic replacement, heavy mobile equipment and demanding industrial applications.

Electrak HD is suitable for heavy-duty industrial and mobile equipment applications where reliable operation in harsh conditions, integrated electronics and robust construction are important.

Electrak MD is often selected for medium-duty applications where a compact, reliable and easy-to-integrate electric actuator is needed.

Electrak LL is suitable when long service life, stable operation and reliable linear motion are key selection criteria.

Electrak GX, Electrak 1, Electrak 050, LA14 and LA24 are more suitable for lighter loads, simpler adjustment, opening, closing and positioning tasks.

Max Jac, H-Track and special actuators are used when higher force, high protection, outdoor operation or a special mechanical design is required.

Control, feedback and synchronization

Electric actuators can be controlled in different ways depending on the required functionality. In simple applications, an actuator can be operated with basic extend and retract signals. In more advanced systems, position feedback, end-of-stroke signals, load monitoring, current limitation, communication interfaces or synchronization of several actuators may be required.

When several actuators must move together, the actuator model, feedback type and controller must be selected carefully. Synchronization is important in lifting tables, hatches, platforms, multi-point mechanisms and other systems where uneven movement could create mechanical stress or safety risks.

Selection tool and Inobalt support

Electric actuator selection should be based on real application data. Nominal force alone is not enough. Stroke, speed, duty cycle, mounting angle, load direction, control method, feedback, environmental conditions and mechanical fittings must also be evaluated.

Use the Thomson electric linear actuator selector or send us your application description. We will help select the right Thomson actuator, controller, cables, mounting accessories and integration solution.