Actuator Glossary
We briefly explain the terms that frequently appear in the technical documentation of linear actuators, lifting columns and control systems.
Stroke: The total distance the inner tube can travel (mm).
Retracted length (built-in dimension): The distance between the two mounting points when the actuator is fully retracted. Usually given as “stroke + a fixed value”.
Push force / pull force: The maximum force the actuator can apply when pushing and pulling the load (N).
Dynamic load: The load the actuator can move while in motion.
Static load: The load the actuator can hold while standing still. It is usually higher than the dynamic load.
Speed: The travel speed of the inner tube (mm/s). It decreases as the load increases.
Duty cycle: The proportion of time the actuator can operate without overheating. 10%: 1 minute on, 9 minutes off.
IP rating: The level of protection against dust (first digit) and water (second digit). IPX6: protection against powerful water jets.
Limit switch: A switch that stops the motor at the beginning and end of the stroke.
Spindle: The threaded shaft that converts rotary motion into linear motion.
Self-locking: The ability of the actuator to hold the load in position when the motor stops; depends on the spindle type and the load.
Control box: The unit that powers the actuators and drives them according to commands from the controls.
SMPS: Switched-mode power supply; converts mains voltage into the DC voltage used by the actuators.
Hand control: The push-button control the user operates to start movements.
Lifting column: A telescopic lifting system that extends and retracts vertically while also acting as a load-bearing element.
Telescopic: A structure made of nested stages that becomes longer when extended.
Hydraulic pump stroke: The distance of one pumping movement on a hydraulic actuator.
Lowering time: The time a hydraulic actuator takes to lower from fully extended to retracted when the valve is opened.
RAL 7035: Light grey colour code; a housing colour commonly used for medical and industrial products.
You can find how these values are used in the selection process in our actuator selection guide.
Let us choose the right product for your application together. Send us your load, stroke, speed and operating environment details via our contact page, or use the Request a Quote button on the relevant product page; our technical team will recommend the most suitable solution.