A: To prepare an accurate quotation, we typically need basic application information such as the required load, stroke, speed, voltage, installation dimensions, operating environment, and order quantity. Providing complete application details helps us recommend a suitable actuator configuration and prepare the quotation more efficiently.
A: The required thrust should be determined based on the actual load, mounting arrangement, direction of movement, and mechanical structure. A higher thrust rating is not necessarily better. When selecting an actuator, consider the following details:
For tilting, opening, closing, or other lever-type mechanisms, the weight of the moving object cannot be used directly as the required actuator thrust. The force should be calculated according to the mechanism geometry and load position.
TOMUU can provide assistance with actuator selection based on the customer's structural drawings, installation dimensions, and load conditions.
A: Dynamic load is the load that a linear actuator can push or pull while extending or retracting, while static load is the load that the actuator can support or hold when it is stopped and no longer moving.
Actuator selection should be based first on the actual dynamic load during operation, while also checking the required static holding capacity when the equipment is stationary. Dynamic and static load ratings are not interchangeable, and an actuator should not be selected based on static load alone.
A: Stroke is the linear travel of the actuator from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position, typically specified in millimeters. When determining the required stroke, consider:
A stroke that is too short may prevent the mechanism from reaching its required position, while an unnecessarily long stroke may cause interference, overtravel, or increase the required installation space.
Providing a mechanism drawing or key installation dimensions allows TOMUU to assist in confirming the appropriate stroke.
A: Thrust and operating speed generally need to be balanced during actuator selection. Higher thrust typically requires a higher gear reduction ratio, which usually results in a lower operating speed. Conversely, configurations designed for higher speed generally provide lower available thrust.
Instead of selecting solely for maximum thrust or maximum speed, determine the appropriate combination based on the equipment load, required movement time, operating cycle, and duty cycle.
The exact thrust-speed relationship varies by actuator model and drivetrain configuration and should be confirmed using the relevant product data or approved selection specifications.
A: The actuator voltage should match the equipment's power supply. Common options include 12 V, 24 V, 36 V, and 48 V. Available voltage options vary by actuator model, so please confirm the equipment's power requirements before selecting.
A: Key installation dimensions generally include the actuator's fully retracted length, fully extended length, mounting-hole dimensions, connection method, and required installation space. Before selecting an actuator, you need to confirm:
The relationship between stroke and installation length varies by actuator series, so do not estimate the minimum installation length from stroke alone. TOMUU can help check installation compatibility based on a 2D drawing, 3D model, or key dimensional information.
A: Linear actuators are mainly designed to handle axial push and pull loads. Sustained side loading or significant off-axis loads are not recommended.
If the mechanism generates lateral forces, additional guidance components such as linear guides or slides should be used to reduce side loading on the actuator and support stable operation and service life.
A: The IP rating indicates the level of protection provided by the actuator enclosure against the ingress of solid particles and liquids. TOMUU's current product information includes standard ratings such as IP54, IP65, IP66, and IP68, although not every rating is available for every actuator series. During actuator selection, please consider:
For outdoor applications, the IP rating should not be considered in isolation. Operating temperature, corrosion resistance, mounting orientation, and long-term exposure conditions should also be evaluated. Always confirm the applicable protection rating in the specifications and test information for the selected model.
A: Optional signal feedback form: Hall sensor, Potentiometer, and Reed sensor
A: The actuator’s self-locking function will prevent the back rest from reclining in case of power interruption.
A: 1. Built-in limit switch; 2. Hall sensor; 3. Overcurrent protection
A: Duty cycle is the working cycle of a motor. A DC motor is installed in the linear actuator, it has a duty cycle which is its continuous operation time/(continuous operation time + rest time)
A: Duty cycle varies by actuator model. Operating time, operating frequency, and load conditions can all affect actuator service life. The actuator should therefore be operated within the duty cycle and operating limits specified for the selected model.
A: Linear actuators can perform frequent start-stop cycles, but the allowable frequency depends on the actuator’s duty cycle, load, and operating environment.
Frequent cycling increases the number of motor starts and heat generation. Operating beyond the actuator’s specified duty cycle for extended periods may reduce service life. For high-frequency applications such as automated equipment, the required operating frequency should be confirmed during product selection.
A: The operating temperature range varies by actuator series, load, duty cycle, and sealing configuration. Refer to the data sheet for the selected model to confirm its specified operating temperature range.
A: The standard IP ratings include IP54, IP65, IP66, and IP68, although availability varies by actuator model. Select the appropriate protection level based on the operating environment. Indoor applications may require a standard level of protection, while outdoor applications generally require greater resistance to environmental exposure.
Always refer to the specifications of the selected model to confirm the available IP rating.
A: Many linear actuators can be configured with different operating speeds, strokes, installation dimensions, and feedback options according to the application. However, available thrust may vary with speed and drivetrain configuration; please confirm the final specification based on the equipment structure, load, and control requirements.
A: Lead time depends on the actuator model, order quantity, customization requirements, and material availability. Standard configurations generally require less production time than customized products. Confirming specifications early in the project can help with production and delivery planning.
TOMUU can provide lead-time guidance according to specific project requirements and assist in developing an appropriate supply schedule.
A: 12 months or negotiate with the premise of working under the condition of a rated duty cycle
A: Yes. The same linear actuator may be suitable for different applications when the required load, stroke, speed, installation dimensions, and operating conditions are compatible.
A: Linear actuators are used in new energy equipment, including solar tracking systems, new energy testing equipment, energy storage equipment, and related automated systems.
A: Linear actuators drive the tracker structure to adjust the angle of solar modules as the position of the sun changes. Actuators used in these systems need to meet the project's requirements for load capacity, environmental conditions, and long-term operating stability.
A: Linear actuators can operate windows, curtains, and ventilation openings as part of automated ventilation and environmental control systems, reducing the need for manual adjustment.
A: Linear actuators are used in various types of automated equipment, including inspection equipment, packaging machinery, assembly equipment, cleaning robots, environmental control systems, conveying equipment, and new energy automation equipment.
The actuators provide linear motion for pushing, pulling, lifting, and positioning to support automated equipment operation.
The appropriate actuator should be selected according to the required thrust, speed, stroke, and available installation space.
A: Actuator reliability depends on whether the design is properly matched to the working environment. Key factors include sealing protection, mechanical strength, load capacity, and long-term resistance to dust, moisture, and outdoor exposure.
A: Choosing between fixed-tilt structures and solar tracking systems is not simply a matter of selecting the more advanced technology. The right choice depends on the project’s full lifecycle return, including energy yield, initial investment, site conditions, and long-term operation and maintenance costs.
We can weigh the options and make the optimal choice by considering the following three core dimensions:
| Evaluation Dimension | Solar Tracking | Fixed Tilt |
| Energy Yield & Electricity Tariff | Tracks the sun throughout the day to increase energy generation per module. In areas with high land costs, low curtailment, or higher electricity tariffs during peak periods, the added power generation can help shorten the payback period. | Energy generation is limited by the fixed module angle, resulting in lower overall yield compared with tracking systems. |
| Initial Investment & Structure | Requires a more complex structure, including drive mechanisms, sensors, and control systems, which increases equipment and installation costs. | Features a simple and durable structure with lower upfront investment and more flexible requirements for terrain and slope. |
| Long-Term O&M (Operations & Maintenance) | Contains moving parts, so maintenance planning, local labor costs, and environmental conditions must be carefully evaluated. | Has few or no moving parts, offering low and predictable long-term operation and maintenance costs. |
There is no single solution that fits every project. For projects focused on maximizing energy yield per unit and supported by favorable electricity tariffs and strong expected returns, solar tracking systems can deliver better long-term value. Conversely, for projects with limited budgets, complex terrain, remote locations, or difficult maintenance conditions, fixed-tilt mounting structures may offer a more practical and cost-effective option.