How To Category - Progressive Automations Blog

One of the most important steps in selecting a linear actuator is choosing the appropriate force rating. It is quite simple when the application requires a load to be lifted vertically, wherein the weight of the load being lifted is equal to the force required from the actuator. A more challenging scenario is if you have a hinge-type application, as commonly seen with lids, trapdoors, and windows. In this article, I will use a sample trapdoor...

Our FLTCON control box series is primarily used to operate our table lifts and lifting column sets. They can also be used as an actuator control box for certain actuator models, as long as they have a Hall Effect sensor and a 24VDC input. The control boxes utilize the Hall Effect sensor feedback, allowing the units to travel in sync as well as the ability to program and save multiple heights. The FLTCON series may benefit the user by keeping t...

Our records reveal that the number one cause for actuator failure is motor damage due to these two mistakes:  Obstructions in the actuator’s travel path Excessive loads for prolonged periods If you find your actuator lifeless despite repeated attempts to power it, you may want to bring your nose close to the motor for a quick sniff. Burnt smell is a common sign of motor damage. This smell is not similar to slightly burnt meat or a campfire,...

At Progressive Automations, we design and manufacture all of our linear actuators with the highest standards of quality and durability. We aim to provide a variety of models to perfectly suit our customer’s wide range of applications, and to ensure that the models perform well and for a very long time. Here are some tips to help you ensure that you get the most out of our linear actuators. The topics will be discussed briefly, for a more detai...

Electric linear actuators are driven by either an AC or DC motor. This article will highlight the main differences between these two motor types in order to assist you in the selection of the correct linear actuator motor.  [cta] [cta-content] Want to convert between AC and DC? Our PA-20 has an AC inverter! Click Here [cta]   Electrical Definition AC and DC motors run on the same principle. Alternating magnetic fields caused by alternating cur...

A Linear actuator is a common mechanical component in many industries. The applications in which linear actuators are used in very diverse and provide a variety of interesting automation possibilities. It is important to choose the right actuator for the job, but it also needs to be mounted correctly in the application for it to function properly. In this article, we will discuss a few common methods of mounting a linear actuator and what you ...