9 Common Troubleshooting Methods for Electric Linear
1. Abnormal Operation
• Check whether the relay produces an engagement sound. If yes, proceed with these steps:
Verify if the motor plug is fully inserted
Conduct no-load testing of the actuator
Swap actuator control interfaces
Examine the actuator itself and controller
If no engagement sound is detected, inspect in sequence:
Hand controller
Connection cables
Main control unit
2. Unusual Noise
• For abnormal sounds from the actuator:
Inspect electromagnetic noise from the motor core
Check for excessive bearing noise
Verify proper meshing of worm gears and bevel gears
Identify impact damage to the motor
Examine improper use of torsion springs, pipe knocking, or friction
Validate appropriate pin shaft selection
Confirm coaxial alignment of front/rear mounting holes to prevent interference
3. Functional Failure
• If controller indicators remain unlit:
Verify AC input voltage
Check power cord connection
Inspect fuse status
Power cycle and test the controller
• For lit indicators but malfunction:
Diagnose hand controller
Test extension cables
Reset system via software recovery procedure
4. Physical Damage
• For housing fractures or tail breakage:
Validate installation dimensions match specifications
Check for structural interference
Identify impact damage or severe overloading
Verify proper installation techniques
• For front linkage fractures:
Ensure mounting surfaces maintain coplanar alignment
Eliminate excessive lateral forces
5. Motor Overheating
• Diagnostic steps:
Confirm operational load within rated capacity
Verify adequate heat dissipation
Test for internal short circuits or component failure
6. Incomplete Stroke Travel
• Resolution methods:
Calibrate stroke limit settings
Monitor controller output stability
Inspect mechanical integrity of actuator assembly
7. Operational Vibration
• Corrective actions:
Validate structural mounting rigidity
Eliminate loose components or imbalance
Test motor output consistency
8. Controller Malfunction
• Troubleshooting sequence:
Measure input voltage parameters
Diagnose internal circuitry defects
Verify actuator communication protocols
9. Power Supply Issues
• Investigation steps:
Monitor voltage stability
Inspect cable termination integrity
Test outlet functionality
Abnormal Noise in Linear Actuators
If the actuator itself generates unusual sounds, characterized by loud electromagnetic noise from the motor core followed by significant bearing noise, this indicates poor meshing of the worm gear and bevel gear. This improper engagement creates external forces that impact the motor, leading to abnormal noises such as pipe knocking or scraping.
Additionally, abnormal sounds may result from improper use of the electric actuator. For instance, incorrect selection of pin shafts can easily cause unusual noises, often due to excessive deviation between the front and rear mounting hole centers during installation. The final potential cause is noise originating from the customer’s own structural assembly.
Actuator Failure to Operate
The troubleshooting process for this situation is relatively straightforward:
Scenario 1: Relay Engagement Sound Detected
Primary inspection: Verify complete insertion of motor plug
Secondary action: Conduct no-load testing of the actuator
Tertiary step: Cross-test by swapping actuator control interfaces
Final verification: Diagnose controller functionality
Scenario 2: No Relay Engagement Sound
Initial check: Examine hand control unit integrity
Subsequent action: Inspect extension cable connections
Ultimate resolution: Perform controller diagnostics
This systematic approach ensures efficient fault isolation between mechanical components (actuator assembly) and control systems (controller/input devices), following industry-standard troubleshooting methodology.
Application Scenarios of Electric Linear Actuators
This equipment is widely used across multiple fields. Let’s examine several typical examples:
In industrial automation, electric linear actuators serve as versatile auxiliary drive devices. They are extensively applied in industries including:
Medical equipment
Furniture manufacturing
Home automation
Electronics
Power systems
Machinery
Metallurgy
Transportation
Mining
Petroleum
Chemical processing
Lifting apparatus
Material handling
Construction
Grain and feed processing
These actuators offer significant advantages:
Energy efficiency and environmental friendliness
Reliable performance
Responsive operation
Smooth movement
Consistent push-pull force
Excellent environmental adaptability
Featuring innovative design with compact dimensions, high precision, perfect synchronization, and superior locking performance, these hygienic units operate through direct motor drive without requiring pneumatic or hydraulic pipelines. They have been widely adopted in production lines, automotive systems, ventilation window operation, military applications, stage equipment, textile machinery, wastewater treatment, and various other industrial equipment sectors.
Are electric linear actuators waterproof
Indeed. Our FS series actuators are built with an IP68 ingress protection rating. This means they are fully dust-tight and can reliably operate when submerged in water at depths of up to 1 meter, making them ideal for demanding or harsh environments.
Automatic Operation Malfunction
Peripheral-Induced Fault Diagnosis:
Inspect hand controller keypad diaphragms for mechanical binding
Verify key height compatibility with panel clearance
Examine control cables for insulation damage or short circuits
Check solder bridging at connector terminals (both hand controller and extension cables)
Validate pin-to-pin isolation in control interface headers
Conduct tactile testing of keys for physical obstruction
Controller-Centric Troubleshooting:
Monitor relay normally-open contacts for contact welding/sticking
Execute software diagnostic routines for firmware validation
Implement remote control functionality to isolate EMI interference
Actionable Protocol:
Prioritize peripheral inspection before controller disassembly
Use multimeter continuity tests for short circuit verification
Apply dielectric grease on connectors when reassembling
This structured approach follows IPC-620 wiring standards and minimizes unnecessary controller replacement through systematic fault isolation.
Can electric linear actuators achieve dustproof or waterproof performance
Our electric linear actuators are engineered to meet diverse operational environment requirements. They incorporate waterproof connectors at cable entry points and feature precision sealing rings with oil seals at the telescopic rod-sleeve interface. We provide multiple IP protection ratings, including IP65, IP66, and IP67, to ensure reliable performance in outdoor rainfall conditions or specialized underwater applications.
Can multiple electric linear actuators achieve synchronization?
Under standard conditions, perfect synchronization is not achievable due to inherent motor speed variations. However, we implement synchronization control through a dedicated control box that precisely coordinates the target positions of all actuators to ensure simultaneous arrival.
How does an electric linear actuator work
The Shanghai Basang electric linear actuator utilizes a built-in planetary gear motor to drive the trapezoidal screw. The screw then pushes against a nut fixed to the push-pull tube, enabling the tube’s movement. By controlling the motor’s forward and reverse rotation, the nut on the screw moves linearly in both directions, thereby achieving the push-pull motion
How is the stroke of an electric linear actuator controlled？
There are three control methods:
Built-in limit switches
Hall effect sensors
Overcurrent protection control
How is the stroke position controlled in an electric linear actuator system？
The stroke position of an electric linear actuator can be controlled through the combined use of a Hall encoder and a controller.
How to Calculate the Torque of an Electric Linear Actuator?
The torque calculation formula for an electric linear actuator is as follows:
Gearbox Torque = 9550 × Motor Power ÷ Motor Input Speed × Transmission Ratio × Utilization Factor.
How to Control the Quality of Electric Linear Actuators？
To ensure the quality, performance, and service life of our electric linear actuators, we implement a rigorous procedure for regular testing and systematic inspection.
How to Select Electric Linear Actuators？
parameters: Thrust Force: Each SMSAN actuator features a unique internal design to achieve different load capacities. The required thrust force should be determined based on the actual weight to be moved. Load Speed: The actuator operates at varying speeds under different loads. Higher loads result in slower movement. It is essential to determine the required speed based on the time available to complete the push-pull action. Stroke Length: Stroke length refers to the distance traveled by the center of the front mounting hole from the fully retracted to the fully extended position. The appropriate stroke should be selected according to the required travel distance. Minimum Installation Dimensions: The minimum installation space is determined by the design constraints of your product.
Linear Actuator？
Linear actuators, also known as electric linear actuators, actuator motors, linear drives, electric telescopic rods, electric push-pull rods, and automatic telescopic mechanisms, are professionally termed as electric linear actuators in the industry.
The working principle of electric linear actuators involves driving a worm gear to actuate the screw, thereby achieving linear motion.
These actuators are commonly used in residential, medical, and industrial applications.
Electric linear actuators offer versatility and flexibility. With synchronized configurations and encoder integration, they enable simultaneous operation of two or multiple actuators.
In residential applications:
Height-adjustable office desks
Desk lifting mechanisms
Electric massage chairs
Smart beds
Multi-function massage equipment
Treadmills
Actuators for residential applications typically feature:
AC power supply
High thrust capacity
Compact dimensions
Low noise operation
Medical field implementations include:
Surgical table actuators
Medical bed adjustment systems
Dental chair mechanisms
Key characteristics comprise:
Ultra-low noise emission
Reliability and safety assurance
Precision movement control
Simplified installation
Intelligent built-in functions
Industrial applications cover:
Solar tracker systems
Satellite positioning mounts
Railway coupling systems
Standard requirements include:
Minimum IP65 protection rating
Dust resistance
High temperature tolerance
Force capacity ranging from 8.000N to 15.000N
Compared to pneumatic and hydraulic solutions, electric linear actuators provide superior advantages:
Fluid-free operation
Zero leakage risk
Reduced power consumption
Complete systems include:
Dedicated controllers
Position encoders
Mounting accessories
Plug-and-play characteristics enable immediate installation and operation.
Featuring permanent magnet DC motors, these actuators outperform AC motors in:
Precise speed and direction control
Enhanced braking capability
Higher power density
Improved energy efficiency
Safer low-voltage operation
Superior torque output
Notable consideration:
Carbon brush maintenance required for DC motors
Brushless AC alternatives offer maintenance-free operation but at higher cost
Compared to electro-hydraulic systems, electric linear actuators are increasingly preferred by engineers due to:
Minimal maintenance needs
Environmental compatibility
Reduced acoustic noise
Plug-and-play convenience
These advantages make them particularly suitable for:
Medical beds and patient care systems
Smart home applications
For innovative applications or mechanical transmission upgrades, our engineering department provides professional consultation and industry-specific technical expertise.
Product Categorization of Linear Actuators？
Classification by Application Field:
Industrial-grade actuators
Medical-grade actuators
Home appliance actuators
Residential actuators
Primary Application Systems:
Electric sofa adjustment mechanisms
Motorized exhibition platform lifts
Industrial elevation systems
Camera support rigs
Projector positioning systems
Event engineering installations
Automated hospital beds
Patient care bed mechanisms
Range hood dampers
Smart oven door operators
Rapid-Release Actuator Malfunction？
**Rapid-Release Actuator Malfunction**
This issue may manifest in three distinct scenarios, which we will explain sequentially:
1. **Motor Operational but No Extension**
– Primary Cause: Over-tightened cable causing clutch assembly disengagement
– Secondary Verification: Physical damage to clutch components
2. **Complete Release Failure**
– Root Cause: Excessive cable slack resulting in dysfunctional operation
– Contributing Factors:
– Ambient temperature/humidity effects on cable tension
– Structural design limitations
– Insufficient counterweight or driving force
3. **Incomplete Release (Semi-engaged State)**
– Symptom: Partial clutch engagement during operation
– Influencing Variables:
– Meteorological conditions affecting mechanical tolerance
– Inherstructural constraints
– Inadequate actuation force magnitude
Stroke Calculation Methodology？
**Installation Dimensions & Stroke Calculation**
**1. Installation Distance Formula**
– **For strokes ≤300mm**: Lmin = S + 160
– **For strokes >300mm**: Lmin = S + 210
**2. Total Extended Length**
– Lmax = Lmin + S
**3. Calculation Examples**
– **Example 1** (Stroke ≤300mm):
S = 100mm → Lmin = 260mm → Lmax = 360mm
– **Example 2** (Stroke >300mm):
S = 300mm → Lmin = 510mm → Lmax = 810mm
**4. Technical Notice**
Longer strokes increase susceptibility to lateral force deflection due to material properties and torque amplification effects. For high-thrust applications, specify shorter stroke models to maintain structural stability.
Troubleshooting Common Electric Linear Actuator Motor Issues？
What to do if the actuator produces noise during operation?
A slight operational sound is normal. However, if the noise suddenly becomes louder, it may indicate insufficient lubrication or part wear. Inspection and maintenance are recommended.
What are the potential causes of electric linear actuator failure？
The main components of an electric linear actuator include the motor gear, lead screw, nut, sleeve, sliding seat, housing, and safety switch. Malfunction of any these components may lead to actuator failure. If the actuator ceases to operate, primary inspection should focus on the motor assembly.
What are your after-sales service policies？
Under standard conditions, the warranty period is one year.
What is Duty Cycle And how does it affect electric linear actuators？
Duty Cycle refers to the operational period of a device. Since electric linear actuators are composed of DC brush motors, they are subject to specific duty cycle limitations. The calculation formula is:
**Duty Cycle = Continuous Operation Time / (Continuous Operation Time + Rest Time)**
What is the common operating temperature range for electric linear actuators?
Electric linear actuators can typically operate normally within an ambient temperature range of -20°C to 65°C.
What is self-locking force?
Self-locking force refers to the ability of an electric linear actuator to maintain its position and prevent the load from descending after power is cut off.
What is the maximum ratio between fully extended and fully retracted states of an electric linear actuator?
The maximum ratio between the fully extended and fully retracted positions depends on the selected telescopic rod, lead screw, nut, and other materials used. There is no fixed value for this parameter.
What is the maximum load capacity of an electric linear actuator
Every electric linear actuator we offer can be customized to your requirements, with a currently supported maximum thrust force of 15,000N.
What is the maximum speed of your electric linear actuators?
We manufacture compact electric linear actuators with varying speeds tailored to different application environments. However, the maximum speed of each specific model ultimately depends on the motor type, transmission ratio, and screw configuration employed.
What is the maximum stroke length of an electric linear actuator？
We provide customized electric linear actuator solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Our standard stroke lengths range from 20mm to 1000mm.
What is the typical service life of an actuator?
This depends on usage frequency and operating environment. Under normal conditions, high-quality products can achieve a service life of up to tens of thousands of reciprocating cycles.
What voltage options are available for electric linear actuators？
The electric linear actuators mainly provide models with DC voltages of 12V and 24V.
Cabinet Air Conditioner Selection Considerations
1. **Allow Sufficient Space:** During installation, adequate space must be reserved around the cabinet air conditioner to facilitate heat dissipation and maintenance. Simultaneously, avoid placing the unit too close to other equipment, which could impair its cooling effectiveness.
2. **Consider Noise and Vibration:** Cabinet air conditioners generate some noise and vibration during operation. It is advisable to select units with low noise levels and minimal vibration, and implement corresponding vibration damping and sound insulation measures.
3. **Power Requirements:** The power specifications of the cabinet air conditioner must be compatible with the existing electrical distribution system to ensure a stable power supply.
4. **Regular Maintenance:** Periodic maintenance and servicing should be performed throughout the operational life of the cabinet air conditioner to ensure the equipment functions normally.
In summary, the selection of a cabinet air conditioner should adhere to principles such as matching cooling capacity, heat dissipation method, energy efficiency ratio, reliability, and compatibility.
During the actual selection process, users must also comprehensively consider factors like equipment heat load, installation space, noise, and vibration to choose the most suitable cabinet air conditioner. Additionally, attention to regular maintenance and upkeep is crucial to ensure the long-term and stable operation of the unit.
Cabinet Air Conditioner Selection Steps
1. **Determine the heat load of internal equipment:** Obtain the heat dissipation figures of the devices inside the cabinet, either from manufacturer-provided data or through actual measurement.
2. **Calculate the total cabinet heat load:** Sum the heat dissipation of all internal devices to determine the cabinet’s total heat load.
3. **Select an air conditioner with matching cooling capacity:** Based on the total cabinet heat load, choose a cabinet air conditioner whose cooling capacity is slightly greater than the total heat load.
4. **Consider heat dissipation method and energy efficiency ratio:** Select an appropriate cabinet air conditioner according to the heat dissipation methods of the internal equipment and the required energy efficiency standards.
5. **Compare different brands and models:** Evaluate factors such as brand reputation, user reviews, price, and after-sales service to select the most suitable cabinet air conditioner.
6. **Confirm compatibility:** Ensure the selected cabinet air conditioner is compatible with the existing cabinet, power distribution, and other supporting facilities.
Control Box Heat Dissipation
As the internal equipment of the cantilever control box generates significant heat during operation, its heat dissipation performance is crucial. The new cantilever control box adopts an efficient thermal design, equipped with multiple cooling fans and exhaust vents to ensure effective heat dissipation and ventilation for various heat sources within the system, thereby guaranteeing stable long-term operation of the equipment.
Cantilever Control Box Selection
In practical application and selection, the width and height of the cantilever control box enclosure can be customized according to customer requirements. During actual use, the customer should consider the load-bearing capacity of the cantilever system joints. The load-bearing range is closely related to the connecting pipe of the cantilever control box, with the main stress point located at the top base connecting to the equipment or control cabinet. Therefore, the longer the connecting pipe, the lower the load-bearing capacity of the cantilever system.
Other Names for Cantilever Control Box
Cantilever Control Box is also known as:
Jib Arm Control Box, Suspended Distribution Box, Jib-Type Distribution Box, Jib Box, Cantilever Box, Suspended Control Box, Cantilever System, Jib System, Machine Tool Swing Arm, Machine Tool Jib Box, Suspended Arm, Machine Tool Hanging Arm, Machine Tool Operator Box, Suspended Arm Connector.
Production Lead Time for Cantilever Control Boxes
The standard production time is 10 business days. Expedited processing is available for special circumstances!
Support Arm System Panel Selection
Used for equipment operation. Depending on load-bearing requirements, different profiles are available for selection, including materials such as stainless steel, cast aluminum, zinc die-cast parts, and aluminum extrusion profiles. A complete system often consists of several components: profiles, enclosure fixing elements, corner connectors, coupling parts, angle linkage components, wall-mounted equipment fixtures, and operator panels. With numerous optional parts and complex selection considerations, it is necessary to provide details about the working environment and required operational methods to assist in the selection process.
Support Arm System Uses
Support arm systems are typically installed in structures where operators need to maintain a certain distance from machinery. This design serves a dual purpose: ensuring safety while allowing operators to observe machine and production system operations and make timely parameter adjustments. Instead of being mounted on electrical cabinets, these systems are mechanically attached to machinery via cantilever arms and can rotate freely, enabling operators to work from various angles.
In this series of modular aluminum control enclosures, we seamlessly integrate unique, high-efficiency industrial controllers (HMIs) and operation panels with artistically crafted enclosure designs that boast excellent technical characteristics. Our diverse range of cantilever systems perfectly complements this product integration.
Additionally, responding to market demands, we have developed the latest stainless steel control enclosures. These stainless steel enclosures similarly demonstrate our attention to product details and market needs.
Our products feature specialized dimensions, varied surface treatments, and a wide selection of aluminum alloy and stainless steel cantilever systems, providing comprehensive solutions for diverse customized application requirements.
What are the advantages of cantilever control box aluminum profiles
Cantilever control boxes made from aluminum profiles offer the advantages of light weight yet high strength, corrosion resistance, ease of processing, good thermal conductivity, aesthetic appeal, and recyclability. These benefits stem from the low density, high strength, corrosion resistance, and excellent formability of aluminum alloy. Furthermore, the variety of available surface treatments meets environmental requirements.
Additional advantages of aluminum profile cantilever control boxes include structural stability and cost-effectiveness. The lightweight nature of aluminum alloy reduces the overall weight of the machine tool while maintaining sufficient rigidity, thereby lowering energy consumption. Its superior heat dissipation properties help extend the service life of electronic components, and the surface oxidation treatment enables reliable performance in humid or dusty environments.
What is a Cantilever Control Box Used For
**Purpose of Cantilever Control Boxes**
Cantilever control boxes are designed to protect installed equipment from external hazards, which may vary and are critical in determining the selection criteria for the enclosure. Fundamentally, assessing whether an enclosure meets safety requirements involves precisely defining the hazards that the equipment may encounter. Key considerations include the following:
1. Protection against contact and foreign object ingress
2. Prevention of water penetration
3. Shielding against internal and external radio interference
4. Chemical resistance
5. Temperature stability
6. Impact resistance
7. Corrosion protection
What is the after-sales support for cantilever control box aluminum profiles?
We strictly implement after-sales policies in accordance with national regulations, with dedicated personnel ensuring timely response and resolution within specified timeframes, guaranteeing worry-free use of your cantilever control box aluminum profiles.
What are the suitable application scenarios for cantilever control box aluminum profiles?
Cantilever control box aluminum profiles are suitable for applications such as CNC machine tools, assembly lines, automated equipment, medical monitoring systems, and industrial control environments. Thanks to their lightweight yet high-strength properties, corrosion resistance, and ease of processing, they meet the demands of flexible installation and harsh operating conditions.
What Different Materials Can Be Machined?
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What Different Materials Can Be Machined?
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