We've compiled the most common technical terms and abbreviations encountered during product selection here, to help you correctly interpret the values found in datasheets.
Duty cycle is the ratio of an actuator's "operating time" to the total of "operating time + rest time", and is usually expressed as a percentage (%). Since actuators are designed to run intermittently rather than continuously, this value determines the maximum frequency of motion each model can produce. For example, the specification "10%, max. 2 min. continuous operation / 20 min." means the actuator can run continuously for at most 2 minutes within any 20-minute period.
Dynamic load is the direct load an actuator can carry while in motion. The maximum dynamic load represents the design limit for each model, and for some products it is specified as different values in the push and pull directions.
Static load refers to the maximum load an actuator can carry while stationary, without slipping backward under that load. It is also defined as the highest load the actuator can withstand for a limited period; therefore, the dynamic load value is recommended as the basis for loads that will be carried continuously.
The IP code defined in the IEC 60529 standard indicates a housing's degree of protection against dust and water. The first digit after the letters "IP" indicates protection against solid particles and contact, while the second digit indicates protection against water. Unless otherwise stated, the IP values in our catalog are based on results obtained under static (stationary) test conditions.
A Hall effect sensor transmits a signal about the actuator's position to the control system, and is used in applications that require reaching a specific position or synchronized motion. Resolution varies depending on the actuator model used.
A reed sensor, like a Hall sensor, provides position feedback; it notifies the control system that the actuator has reached a specific point or that synchronized motion is required. The choice between the two technologies depends on the model and the application's precision requirements.
A potentiometer, driven by a separate gear set, changes its resistance as the actuator moves forward or backward. The control system uses this change in resistance to determine the actuator's instantaneous and absolute position; this information is not lost even in the event of a power outage.
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) is a technique used by the software in the control box to run the actuator at different speeds. PWM also comes into play in applications that require soft start or soft stop.
SMPS (Switching Mode Power Supply) is a universal power supply type that accepts a 100-230V AC input voltage and converts it to a low DC voltage (24-29V DC in most of our applications); it adapts to mains voltage differences across countries.
Manual release is a safety option typically used in the up-down motion of patient transfer lifts. In the event of a power outage, maintenance staff can turn the manual release mechanism to lower the patient in a controlled manner.
Quick release is an option used in the head-section adjustment of medical or home-care beds. In situations requiring emergency intervention such as CPR, it saves time by instantly bringing the bed to a flat position.
There are two different implementations: in an electrical push-only design, a micro switch cuts the current when force is generated in the pull direction. In a mechanical push-only design, force in the pull direction is disengaged; if an obstacle is encountered during retraction, the extension tube separates from the nut carrying it.
The safety nut is a metal part mounted beneath the plastic nut inside the tube assembly. Even if the plastic nut breaks, the safety nut holds the actuator in a failure position, preventing the load from suddenly and rapidly dropping.
Self-locking force refers to the force an actuator can hold the moment it stops moving; it indicates the actuator's capacity to hold the load in a fixed position without an additional braking mechanism.
