The New PA-MC2 Micro Linear Actuator with PWM Compatibility

Compact and versatile micro linear actuators are critical for industrial applications where space is limited. Traditionally, achieving a smaller form factor often meant compromising on performance or durability. However, advancements in actuator technology have paved the way for compact solutions that don’t sacrifice functionality, even in demanding use cases. In this product overview, we will cover the new PA-MC2 Compact Micro Linear Actuator manufactured in Canada and explore several real-world applications where this actuator excels.

Key Features and Benefits of the PA-MC2

Durable Materials and Ratings

Durable construction with the stainless steel stroke rod and metal gears is backed by our 18-month actuator warranty to ensure the PA-MC2 with reliability to handle demanding use cases. The standard models offer an overload protection feature and built-in limit switches to help protect our PA-MC2 Micro Linear Actuators from over-extending or over-retracting past the intended travel positions.

PWM COMPATIBILITY

The PA-MC2 is PWM compatible actuator that can be paired with control systems that output PWM power signals. Pulse Width Modulation control would output square pulses of 12V across the 2-wires actuator’s brushed DC motor. This control method from our PWM-compatible control boxes helps to ensure smooth motion and a gradual slowdown of speed before stopping as the shaft of the actuator approaches the end of its travel. Our compatible control systems and controllers can be used with the PA-MC2 as long as they have suitable current ratings to handle the motor and compatible voltage operation.

Versatility In an Ultra Compact Design

The PA-MC2 Micro Linear Actuator offers the highest dynamic force rating options available from our micro linear actuators category. Despite its compact size as a micro linear actuator, the PA-MC2 Micro Linear Actuator for small spaces offers a large range of force options that can handle a dynamic force ranging from 9 lbs to 56 lbs and a static force ranging from 9 lbs to 56 lbs. The PA-MC2 micro linear actuator offers a stroke range from 2” to 8” off the shelf and travel speeds that can go up to 2.09 "/sec unloaded (9 lbs force option) for quite a fast traveling actuator given its low current draw and compact size.

Compatibility Through Simple Operation

The standard PA-MC2 Compact Linear Actuator with PWM Compatibility features a 2.54 mm 2-Pin Female Connector and operates at 12 VDC, simplifying installation and integration into existing systems. When fully loaded to its force rating, the low current draw of no more than 650 mA is also suitable for all the current ratings of our rocker switches and control boxes.  

MOUNTING BRACKETS

The BRK-MC1 stainless steel front and rear mounting brackets are compatible with our PA-MC2 Micro Linear Actuator, allowing for a simple installation process. The brackets are lightweight and offer versatile mounting options with the included 2x U-shaped brackets that work for either the front or rear mounting holes. Both styles of the mounted brackets allow 180 degrees of movement. For added convenience, there is also 1x 5-Pin Male Adapter included for ease of wiring the micro linear actuators. Please see our mounting brackets product page for more detailed information and specifications.

Ideal Applications: From DIY to Automation Projects

Both our PA-MC2 Micro Linear Actuators and PA-MC1 Micro Linear Actuators share many similarities, such as a low current draw, compact size, high ingress protection ratings for water resistance, and versatile performance that can be useful in various applications and industries:

• food and beverages
• home automation
• general automation
• costume & animatronics industry

We have many success stories of customer projects that used our PA-MC1 micro linear actuators, and we are excited to see all the new possibilities our PA-MC2 Micro Linear Actuators will bring in the future!

FAQ Questions

What makes the PA-MC2 different from other micro linear actuators?
-The PA-MC2 bridges the gap between the mini and micro linear actuator categories, being more compact than mini actuators while having the highest dynamic force rating for micro actuators of up to 56 lbs.

Is the PA-MC2 actuator suitable for home automation projects? 
-Yes, the PA-MC2 micro linear actuator is suitable for home automation projects that have requirements that fall within the PA-MC2 micro linear actuator specification ratings.

How does PWM control work with the PA-MC2?
-Pulse Width Modulation control would output square pulses of 12V across the 2 wires of the PA-MC2’s brushed DC motor. This control method from our PWM compatible control boxes helps to ensure smooth motion and a gradual slowdown of speed before stopping as the shaft of the actuator approaches the end of its travel.

What power and wiring options are available for the PA-MC2?
-The PA-MC2 micro linear actuator is available in a 12V option for power with 2 wire operation of the brushed DC motor and no positional feedback options at this time.

Can I use the PA-MC2 in outdoor or dusty environments?
-Yes, the PA-MC2 micro linear actuator can handle exposure to dust and water up to the IP65 ingress protection rating.

IN SUMMARY

Designed to meet stringent space, durability, and control requirements, the PA-MC2 micro linear actuator delivers robust performance in a compact package. The standard model with a 2.54 mm 2-Pin Female Connector simplifies installation and integration into existing systems, while PWM compatibility allows for pairing with PWM compatible control boxes to have soft start and stop functions.

We hope you found this as informative and interesting as we did, especially if you were looking to use a micro linear actuator for your next project. If you have any queries or wish to discuss our products further, please do not hesitate to contact us! We are experts in what we do and will be happy to assist however we can.

sales@progressiveautomations.com | 1-800-676-6123