What is the right actuator to use for press applications?

When handling pressing applications, manufacturers often run into problems, including but not limited to hydraulic leaks, control challenges, energy inefficiencies and maintenance downtime. To combat these challenges and others, selecting the proper actuator is essential.

Machine Design, a Control Design partner publication, broke down how each different actuator can assist pressing applications in a recent article. Whether manufacturers or engineers choose a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, air-over-oil cylinder or hybrid linear actuator, each application has its pros and cons.

For example, pneumatic actuators provide an attractive cost-efficient option but suffer from air leaks, which leads to performance degradation and energy inefficiency. For an actuator that is leak-free and, as a result, more energy efficient, a hybrid linear actuator would be a better choice.

The article also provides a link to Kyntronics’ Press Application Playbook for even more information. Read the full article to learn more about the difference actuators.