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.
SIPOS Aktorik’s electric actuators have been included in a dam enhancement scheme designed to protect the township of Captains Flat, 60km South East of Canberra in Australia.
VICI Valco’s says that its Cheminert C72 ultra-high pressure UHPLC injectors, switching valves, and selectors are ideal for high speed, high throughput techniques which demand a valve and fitting system that minimize internal volume and eliminate dead volume.
An advanced actuation solution has contributed to a lightning strike protection initiative at a wastewater treatment project located at Denmark’s Port of Aarhus.
IMI has acquired Grupo InterAtiva, a Brazilian isolation valve business from its founding partners for an initial cash consideration of GBP 22M and deferred consideration up to a maximum of GBP 21M payable based on delivery of stretching financial targets over the next three years.
Assured Automation extends their ball valve line with the addition of the P2 Series full port PVC true union ball valve. Available in ½" to 4" the P2 Series offers a variety of advanced features such as a high quality stem and ball support system and a multifunctional locking handle.
Val-Matic® entered the United Kingdom market on a major project for Thames Water. The project involved an upgraded contract worth more than USD189 million at the Crossness Sewage Treatment Plant in east London.
After extending its modular concept for electric actuation in 2010 with the introduction of the Generation .2 series of actuators and controls, AUMA has continued to evolve its product range.
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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SIPOS Aktorik’s electric actuators have been included in a dam enhancement scheme designed to protect the township of Captains Flat, 60km South East of Canberra in Australia. 
An advanced actuation solution has contributed to a lightning strike protection initiative at a wastewater treatment project located at Denmark’s Port of Aarhus. 
Assured Automation extends their ball valve line with the addition of the P2 Series full port PVC true union ball valve. Available in ½" to 4" the P2 Series offers a variety of advanced features such as a high quality stem and ball support system and a multifunctional locking handle. 
Val-Matic® entered the United Kingdom market on a major project for Thames Water. The project involved an upgraded contract worth more than USD189 million at the Crossness Sewage Treatment Plant in east London. 
After extending its modular concept for electric actuation in 2010 with the introduction of the Generation .2 series of actuators and controls, AUMA has continued to evolve its product range. 
A wide catchment area for an Australian WwTW has been supported with electric actuation from SIPOS Aktorik. 
The Środa Śląska, sewage treatment plant in Poland has undergone a major modernisation programme aided by AUMA’s modular electric actuators.