Linear actuators are highly versatile devices used in a variety of applications, from simple home automation systems to complex industrial machinery. At their core, they work through the transformation of electrical energy into mechanical force. But how exactly do you power a linear actuator? This article provides a comprehensive guide.
Most linear actuators operate on DC 12V or DC 24V and can be powered by batteries, power adapters or switching power supplies.
1. Use a power adapter or switching power supply to power the linear actuator
For the operation of any electric linear actuator, an appropriate power source is required. Using a power adapter or switching power supply to power linear actuators has a more stable voltage output and greatly reduces the size and weight of the power supply equipment. The selection of power supply is mainly based on the working voltage of the linear actuator. Common working voltages include 12V DC, 24V DC, 36V DC, etc. For home automation, you can generally choose a power adapter or switching power supply with a voltage output of 12V or 24V.
1.1 Connect the linear actuator to the power adapter or switching power supply
Connect the power wires of the linear actuator (usually red and black wires or blue and brown wires) to the power wires of the power adapter or switching power supply respectively.
1.2 Operation
When linear actuator is connected to DC power supply, the stroke rod will extend outward; after switching the power in the reverse direction, the stroke rod will retract inward.
1.3 The following is a link to commonly used power adapters and switching power supplies that we recommend:
Power Supplies for Linear Actuator
2. Use a rechargeable lithium battery pack to power linear actuators
The high energy density of the lithium battery pack greatly increases the service life and working time of the linear actuator. It is relatively light and small in size, making it easy to integrate into devices of various sizes and shapes without making the device bulky. It can be recharged multiple times and has a long service life. In addition, using a rechargeable lithium battery pack to power the linear actuator prevents the linear actuator from stopping due to a power outage.
2.1 Connect the linear actuator to the rechargeable lithium battery pack
Connect the power wires of the linear actuator (usually red wire and black wire or blue wire and brown wire) to the output power wire of the rechargeable lithium battery pack.
2.2 Operation
When linear actuator is connected to DC power supply, the stroke rod will extend outward; after switching the power in the reverse direction, the stroke rod will retract inward.
2.3 The following is a link to the commonly used rechargeable lithium battery packs we recommend:
Lithium Batteries for Linear Actuator