Actuator
From RitchieWiki
An actuator is a kind of mechanical device that converts energy into motion. The actuator takes in energy by air, electricity, or a liquid form and converts it into some form of motion such clamping, blocking, or ejecting. The motion generated can be linear (one-direction), rotary (circular direction), or oscillatory (opposite directions at regular intervals).[1]
Actuators are widely used in industrial applications in the manufacturing of motors, pumps, switches, and valves.
The most commonly known type of actuator is an air cylinder. Used widely in manufacturing and assembly line applications, air cylinders are fabricated out of metal and use energy generated by compressed air to move pistons. Cylinders can also be powered by electricity and hydraulics by converting either electric or hydraulic energy into motion. Actuators can also feature more than one power source or a combination thereof such as air and electricity or hydraulics and electricity.[2]
