Actuation refers to the process of converting energy into motion in various systems and devices. It’s a crucial component in a myriad of technologies, ranging from simple mechanisms to complex machinery.
Actuation is the mechanism of initiating and controlling movements in various systems, which could be mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic, among others. This concept is widely used in industries like robotics, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. It encompasses a wide range of components and techniques designed to convert various forms of energy into physical motion.
Rotork’s innovative CVA electric control valve actuation technology has been selected for a demanding duty involving continuous modulation at what is described as a “new generation” waste water treatment plant in southwest France.
Acrodyne has developed the Koei Unic-05 24 V DC electric actuator as the industry standard for actuation of quick opening ball valves for firefighting trucks.
Process standards and systems are as important to SIPOS Aktorik as meeting product and performance legislation for the company’s electric actuation technology.
Bimba has introduced a compact rotary actuator that features corrosion resistant components – the Pneu-Turn Rotary Actuator.
Pre-lubricated at the factory for maintenance-free operation, the Pneu-Turn Rotary Actuator is designed with 4301 stainless steel cylinder body for maximum seal life.
A new high service water delivery pump station at the East Cherry Creek Valley (ECCV) Water and Sanitation district in Colorado incorporates pump and surge anticipation / relief valves supported by programmable actuators from SIPOS Aktorik.
Valve & Fitting Solutions introduces a new innovative range of air and electric actuators for instrument and process ball valves – HPA series. These actuators have been subject to over one million cycles test without failure.
Exeeco APS (Actuation, Projects and Services) has been providing actuators and services to Drax Power Station since 1973 and as part of the Rotork flow control group is proud to announce that Drax Power Limited (Drax) has extended its Actuator Framework Contract for twelve months with an option to extend for a further two years.
Parker's Electromechanical Automation Division, a leading supplier of motion control technology, announced the release of its OSPE electric actuator series.
The primary devices that carry out actuation are called actuators. These can be categorized as:
Mechanical Actuators: Convert rotary motion to linear motion or vice versa, often using gears, rails, or screws.
Electric Actuators: Utilize electric motors to generate motion, controlled by varying voltage, current, or electromagnetic fields.
Hydraulic Actuators: Use the pressure of a liquid (usually oil) to induce motion, often to generate high forces in heavy machinery.
Pneumatic Actuators: Operate using compressed air or gas to create motion, often found in industrial automation setups.
Thermal or Magnetic Actuators: Leverage thermal expansion or magnetic fields to generate motion, usually in micro or nano-scale applications.
2. Control Systems
These systems are essential in regulating the functioning of actuators, often utilizing feedback loops to maintain precision and efficiency. They may include:
Manual Controls: Simple interfaces like levers or switches to control actuators.
Automatic Controls: Utilize sensors and microcontrollers to automatically control the actuation process.
Software Interfaces: Complex control setups involving software platforms integrated with hardware components to enable sophisticated control strategies.
3. Power Sources
Different actuation systems require different power sources, which could range from electrical batteries, hydraulic pumps, or pneumatic compressors.
Applications
Actuation finds its application in various fields:
Robotics: In the control of robotic arms, legs, or other appendages.
Aerospace: Utilized in the functioning of various components like flaps, landing gear, and engines.
Automotive: In control systems like power steering, braking systems, and throttle control.
Industrial Machinery: In machines used for manufacturing, packaging, and other industrial processes.
Healthcare: In devices like prosthetics and other healthcare equipment.
Consumer Electronics: In gadgets and appliances, for functions like zooming in cameras or adjusting settings.
Future Trends
With advancements in technology, actuation systems are expected to become more sophisticated, incorporating features like:
Internet of Things (IoT): Integration with IoT for smarter and more connected control systems.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Incorporating AI for predictive maintenance and automated control strategies.
Miniaturization: Development of smaller and more compact actuators for use in micro and nano-scale applications.
Conclusion
Actuation is a dynamic and evolving field, playing a critical role in modern technology and industry. It encompasses a wide range of components, systems, and techniques that convert energy into physical motion, finding applications in a variety of sectors and continually evolving to incorporate new advancements and innovations.
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A new module designed by AUMA provides enhanced Safety Integrity Level (SIL) capability for the company’s electric actuators. 
Rotork’s innovative CVA electric control valve actuation technology has been selected for a demanding duty involving continuous modulation at what is described as a “new generation” waste water treatment plant in southwest France. 
Acrodyne has developed the Koei Unic-05 24 V DC electric actuator as the industry standard for actuation of quick opening ball valves for firefighting trucks. 
Process standards and systems are as important to SIPOS Aktorik as meeting product and performance legislation for the company’s electric actuation technology. 
A new high service water delivery pump station at the East Cherry Creek Valley (ECCV) Water and Sanitation district in Colorado incorporates pump and surge anticipation / relief valves supported by programmable actuators from SIPOS Aktorik. 
Adoption of AUMA modular electric actuators at Zurich Lake water plant began in 1975 and has continued with the recent installation of 190 SA. 
Parker's Electromechanical Automation Division, a leading supplier of motion control technology, announced the release of its OSPE electric actuator series.