For a long time, pneumatic, hydraulic and manual systems have been the default choice in mobile off-highway applications. More and more, however, linear actuators are finding their way into everything from turf, lawn and garden vehicles to major construction, road maintenance and farm applications. When something needs to be raised, lowered, pushed, pulled, rotated, positioned, lifted, shifted or moved, Thomson linear actuators are making an irrefutable case for electrification. They operate more simply, efficiently, cleanly and quietly. And, with fewer components to act up or wear out, linear actuators offer exceptional durability.

Reducing Costs

Despite being perceived as costing more, linear actuators actually net out to be more cost-efficient because of savings on several fronts.

Save on maintenance

• No hydraulic fluid replacement
• No leak repairs
• Only bearing lubrication and semi-annual cable replacement vs. the more complex regular maintenance of hydraulics
• Fewer components overall to maintain

Save on component and installation costs

• Electric actuation components cost less than comparable hydraulic and pneumatic systems
• One electric actuator is easier and quicker to install than multiple hydraulic and pneumatic components. This can lead to significant savings in OEM assembly scenarios
• Quick and predictable system tuning when compared to configuring hydraulic systems

Improving Productivity and Efficiency

Well, there’s no question that linear actuators provide a faster, safer and more efficient solution over manual operation. But linear actuators also trump the performance of hydraulics and pneumatics because they can be programmed to communicate with other system components, thus representing a more precise option.

• Improved control over critical machine operations with:
• Multiple digital and analog feedback options
• Fixed and programmable limit switches for “teach and repeat” positions
• Low voltage switching options that can interface directly with programmable PC/PLC controllers
• Pulse width modulation for variable speed control
• Superior accuracy and repeatability
• Link and automate simultaneous processes
• Reduced down time with:
• Low maintenance
• Longer component life
• Redundancy through manual override

General Benefits

Yes, there are even more positives. Thomson linear actuators:

• Are compact and lightweight
• Are quieter than hydraulic or pneumatic systems
• Are rugged/durable
• Use less energy than hydraulics
• Are safer for the environment
• Are reliable