I need a linear actuator with a fail safe style spring return. Basically very fast return to default position when de-energized. Anybody know where I can find these? Been looking everywhere. Thanks!
Do you need the actuator to be rotary or linear? In either case, what would torque / force / travel would be needed for your application? The more information / details you can provide, the better we can help you.
I need about 4-5" of linear travel, with around 10lbs of max force. Preferably on 12v if possible. Thanks!
Those types of actuators do not have an “auto return” in that range - you’ll need a DPDT switch. Ex:
robotshop.com/en/4-in-stroke … uator.html
This can move at a maximum of 4" per second (no load). It will need power to retract.
It’s just the technology used in these systems… we do understand what you want, but also not aware of any solutions.
What you need is the equivalent of a powerful and large solenoid.
Ok Thanks for the help!
What you want to use is a single-acting pneumatic cylinder. When pressurized, it will extend. When de-pressurized it will retract via an internal spring.
The valve to use would be a 3-way solenoid valve. When energized, it applies the pressure. When de-energized, the pressure source is sealed off, and the cylinder permitted to vent to atmosphere.
Depending on how fast it needs to return, you could consider other options. E.g. a double-acting cylinder with a 4-way valve. Then, rather than a spring causing it to return, the pressure is applied to force it to return.
Be aware, that for mobile equipment, pneumatic is a fairly inefficient method.
-Joe
Joe,
Thanks for the input. Unfortunately, this is for a race vehicle so adding a pneumatic system isn’t an option. Basically, I need to actuate a pressurized gas valve on a ramp. This is why a traditional solenoid won’t work. And because it is controlling the flow of flammable gases, for safety reasons, a fast reliable fail safe is a must in case anything goes wrong. However. I’m thinking I might try to model the setup of a traditional throttle body, where a stepper motor acts upon a spring loaded gear set.
I suspect that there are already valves like this out there. I am sure others would also want a flammable gas valve that defaulted to closed. Sorry, but I don’t have any exposure to that field to know where to refer you.
I can imagine a type of actuator that had toggle-type of configuration. So, that the arm that pushed your load would be jointed and have a spring load on it, so that it would bend if it were free to do so. But, a solenoid bends it slightly beyond being straight so that it does not bend. However, when the solenoid is unpowered the arm bends back and therefore can no longer apply force.
But, the above is only a vague concept. I have never seen such a device.
-Joe