Pneumatics & Hydraulics


A new electric actuator

October 2023 Pneumatics & Hydraulics

SMC’s new electric actuator is an electric drive, that is controlled in the same way as a pneumatic cylinder and solenoid valve combination. Electric drives are designed for getting accurate speeds, and adjustable acceleration and deceleration. This, however, normally requires a PLC with complex logic involved to control the electric drives. With the new EQ electric actuator, the setup is simple and easy to control. It works exactly the same way as a pneumatic cylinder, with the ability to set it up to act as a single solenoid valve, double solenoid valve, or closed centred valve. You can set it up to suit your application.

The controller is integrated into the motor housing, so there is no need for an external controller and actuator cables. This reduces wiring and saves space. However, even with all these changes, the mounting dimensions have been kept the same as SMC’s exciting electric drive product range. The motor cover is slightly bigger, to include the integrated controller. Metal M12 connectors are used for the power cable, IO-cable and communication cable, thus providing improved connector rigidity.

Setup is simple, and is completed in the following three steps:

Step 1: Set the operation mode. There are three operation modes: single solenoid mode, double solenoid mode, and closed centre mode.

Step 2: Set the stopping positions to the required extended and retracted distances.

Step 3: Set the speed, acceleration and deceleration.

With these three steps, setup is complete.

The electric actuator is an ideal addition to machines that do not have access to compressed air, or require accurate acceleration and deceleration with controlled speed. All this is achievable while controlling it like a solenoid valve.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Noise protection for pneumatic knockers
Neu Matics SA Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Noise in the workplace not only has serious health consequences, such as damage to the inner ear, headaches, dizziness, and even concentration and sleep disorders, but it also affects productivity. In order to keep operational noise levels as low as possible, singold gerätetechnik offers a range of solutions.

Read more...
Versatile cylinder monitoring
ifm - South Africa Pneumatics & Hydraulics
This IO-Link cylinder sensor from ifm, with two configurable hardware outputs, will upgrade your machine in no time.

Read more...
Hydraulic connectors with residual pressure
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Hydraulic connections are vital in both outdoor and indoor industrial machinery. However, the hydraulics lines frequently require connecting and disconnecting for maintenance or changeover. The goal is to enable quick, easy swaps to enhance machine flexibility and productivity.

Read more...
Selection of two-port valves: an open and shut case
SMC Corporation South Africa Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Little consideration is generally given to two-port valves because they are often perceived as simple devices that only open and close to control downstream fluid supply. Although this is mechanically true, choosing the optimal two-port valve for your application can make a big difference, saving space, weight and energy consumption.

Read more...
Ten considerations for optimum use of vacuum technology
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Vacuum technology plays a huge role in the packaging of foodstuffs and other products. Here are ten considerations to help you use vacuum technology as effectively and efficiently as possible, so that you can optimise processes and cut operating costs.

Read more...
Oil-free beer and wine processing
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
The food and beverage industry depends on superior quality, 100% oil-free compressed air to eliminate the presence of unwanted oil vapour throughout the production line.

Read more...
Choosing a pneumatic knocker
Neu Matics SA Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Pneumatic knockers are a valuable tool in minimising buildup of materials and preventing disruptions in material flow in silos, rotary dryers, coolers, granulators and coating drums. This helps plant managers improve production efficiency and product quality.

Read more...
Easy couplings for extreme conditions
Bearing Man Group t/a BMG Pneumatics & Hydraulics
BMG’s Timken Quick-Flex couplings, which require minimal maintenance, are able to withstand extreme applications, including hydraulics, pumps, gearboxes, compressors, vibrator screens, and fans.

Read more...
Innovative solutions to boost energy efficiency and cost savings
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
As a leading manufacturer of high performance cartridge valves and integrated packages, Sun Hydraulics has gathered a collection of innovative solutions proven to significantly boost and improve energy efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and ultimately provide cost savings for the end-user.

Read more...
Create and recover energy all in one check valve
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Energen is a new, high-efficiency check valve from Sun Hydraulics that allows free flow from inlet to outlet, and blocks flow in the opposite direction. Composed of an integrated generator that converts ...

Read more...