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Apr 03, 2017 - How to Use a Linear Actuator with an External Limit Switch

A linear actuator is a machine part that is moving and controls a mechanism, such as packaging machines, medical equipment, production equipment, and in the transportation industry in applications from rail to aircraft. A linear actuator needs a source of energy and a control signal in order to perform.

Looking for a linear actuator for sale? At Gordon Russell, we carry the Electack HD Electric Linear Actuator. The Electrak HD is a new electric linear actuator with onboard electronics that eliminate the need for standalone controls. It’s increased power opens a wider range of hydraulic applications to electric conversion.  

Using an External Limit Switch with a Linear Actuator

An external limit switch is a cost effective and convenient way of controlling the travel of a linear actuator. Some linear actuators come with a built-in, programmable limit switch, allowing you to modify the stoke’s travel to the precise position you want. While this is a very useful function, it requires a bit more technical knowledge and actuators with a built in limit switch tend to be more expensive.  

That being said, not all linear actuators are manufactured with a customizable limit switch. More likely, they will be manufactured with built-in limit switches at the end of each stroke for extension and retraction. Some others might not even have limit switches. These types of linear actuators are easy to operate and are more affordable. But unfortunately, you can’t control the travel distance with these models.

So what happens when the stroke is longer than you require? Well, the simplest and most cost-effective option to controlling the travel in a standard linear actuator is installing an external limit switch.

Built-In Linear Actuator Limit Switch

When you review the specs for a linear actuator and either “non-adjustable limit switch” or “built in limit switch” is listed, this means that when the shaft extends and retracts, it will stop at the end of the stroke and the motor will shut down. The motor shutting down is an important feature, as this prevents it from continuing to draw power, which would burn out quickly if it did not.

External Limit Switch

An external limit switch can be used on linear actuators to either break or make an electrical connection. Basically, an external limit switch is a device with a lever or button that opens or closes an electrical circuit. These devices are designed in different sizes and power to accommodate different devices for motion control. This can include large heavy-duty, high-powered linear actuators to small electric ones.

In order for the external limit switch to draw power, the lever needs to be moved by another force, such as the linear actuator. This can be done a few different ways, including being moved directly by the actuator, using something attached to the actuator, or it can be done using magnets attached to both the external limit switch and the actuator.

How to Use an External Limit Switch with a Linear Actuator

If the full stroke isn’t required, the external limit switch can be used to stop the power to the actuator once it arrives at the desired travel distance. It is fairly simple to connect an external limit switch to a linear actuator.  It is also fairly easy to find a way to stop the actuator from moving past a set position once you have customized the switch.

Wiring an External Limit Switch and Linear Actuator

It is very easy to wire the external limit switch to the linear actuator. Start by connecting the control and power sources. Then connect the external limit switch to the ground cable, located between the linear actuator and the control source. Make sure to watch the direction of the lever.

Looking for a linear actuator for sale? Contact Gordon Russell to inquire about our inventory today by calling  (604) 940-1627 today.

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