Hi there, some very basic help needed to source the right method of controlling an actuator. I have been looking at 12v dc micro linear actuators with a 30mm stroke but I have a specific control requirement or function requirement call it however that is as follows : The actuator needs to extend fully with an initial 12v constant supply and rest at the full extent after the limit switch is reached. When the 12v supply is removed i need the actuator to retract in back to its retracted start point. Extend/retract with the on/off 12v supply. As far as i can see these linear actuators require a reversed polarity supply to retract back in…??
Can anyone point me towards a solution or a product that does exactly what i want please…???
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Hi @Mezzbot and welcome to the Forum
the way you describe it sounds like some kind of electric magnet. But I don’t know if a version with 30mm stroke exists. Maybe you find one with a shorter stroke and plenty of power. Then you can use a lever to achieve 30mm.
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Hello, I have been looking at the Actuonix L12 30mm stroke actuator. I need an actuator that will extend when 12v is applied and then retract when the 12v feed is stopped. Do I need a controller of some kind or is there an actuator that will return stroke when power is stopped…???
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Hello @Mezzbot!
You are right. Linear actuators with limit switches from our website need reversed polarity to change direction. If you turn of 12V feed to them, they will stop.
What you need is an actuator with spring. These are pneumatic actuators, and when power is cut of from pneumatic source, these actuators will retract. We don’t have these in our catalog, but try googling a little bit and you will find more information.
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Ok thanks, looks like I’ll need to find a reversing polarity relay if such an item exists or some clever wiring to achieve the same outcome…
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You can achieve this by using DPDT switches but still, if you cut voltage, it will not work. You have to apply voltage until it retracts.
Hello again, yes I’ve worked it out now, I was hoping for an actuator that could meet me half way with the cct automation side of things but I guess we should be grateful that they just exist as they are and we are allowed to play…!!! I’m using a delay ‘off’ 12v automotive relay which will energise when the bikes ignition turns on and will over run by say 10 seconds when the ignition is turned off allowing the actuator to return to it’s rest position. We are using it on a custom motorcycle whereby the instrument cluster will pop up out of the false tank cover when the ignition is turned on.
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That is a nice solution.