Linear Actuators

Linear actuators are core components of a wide variety of production machines and automation systems. Reliability, accuracy and repeatability are essential in manufacturing systems, making linear actuators and linear electric actuators the preferred choice for many units. At Matara UK, we’re experts in linear actuator design, working from our Gloucestershire machine shop to design and build an array of belt and ball screw units.

Our belt drives use proven AT Steel Core Belting with precision pinions, as well as PMI Linear Rails and Carriages. Having been machining ball screws for more than 15 years, at Matara we have the know-how to ensure that all of our ball screw linear actuator systems fit together quickly and efficiently to provide high levels of accuracy with zero backlashes.

What is a linear actuator?

A linear actuator is a mechanical device that converts rotational motion into linear motion. It is used to move or control objects in a straight line, such as opening and closing valves, raising and lowering objects, or positioning machinery.

There are different types of linear actuators, but most use a motor to generate rotational motion that is then converted into linear motion through a lead screw, belt, or other mechanisms. The linear motion can be controlled by varying the speed, direction, and distance travelled by the actuator.

Linear actuators are commonly used in industrial automation, robotics, medical devices, and other applications where precise and controlled linear motion is required. They come in different sizes, shapes, and load capacities to fit different requirements.

Matara’s range of linear actuators are electric and motor powered and control driven and are suitable for use in applications that can include earth-moving equipment in construction or mining environments.

Linear actuator applications

Linear motor actuators and linear actuators are widely used in various industrial applications, including overhead transport systems, machine tools, and gantry robots. One of their primary advantages is their rail configuration, which provides stability and low-friction guidance. 

Additionally, unlike other linear actuators, they are not restricted by travel length, making them ideal for use in nearly any industrial environment requiring the movement of loads over long distances in a straight line.

Linear actuator sub-categories

There are many different types of linear actuators available at Matara UK, but here are the three main categories:

• Ballscrew Driven Linear Actuators
• Belt Driven-Linear Actuators
• Rod Type Ballscrew Linear Actuators

What is a Ballscrew Driven Linear Actuator?

A ballscrew driven linear actuator is a type of linear actuator that uses a ballscrew mechanism to convert rotary motion into linear motion. The ballscrew consists of a threaded shaft with a spiral groove and a ball nut with a corresponding set of ball bearings that roll between the nut and the shaft. This allows the nut to move in a linear motion along the shaft.

What is a Belt-Driven Linear Actuator?

A belt-driven linear actuator uses a timing belt to convert rotary motion into linear motion. The belt is typically made of a flexible material, like rubber, that is reinforced with cords to provide tensile strength.

What is a Rod Type Ballscrew Linear Actuator?

A rod-type ballscrew linear actuator uses a ballscrew mechanism to convert rotary motion into linear motion. It consists of a cylindrical rod or shaft with a threaded shaft or screws inside it and a ball nut with a set of ball bearings that roll between the nut and the shaft. This set-up allows the nut to move in a linear motion along the shaft.

Linear actuators in the UK

Here at Matara UK, we are proud to have a well-established machine shop that allows us to deliver cost-effective linear actuator design and manufacturing to suit a range of industrial applications. If you require further information about our linear electric actuators, or any of our other products, please contact us today.