Designed with air, hydraulic, or electrical power sources, actuators are often used to operate valves, dampers, fluid couplings, and other industrial process control devices in such industries as material handling, steel mills, nuclear power plants, elevator manufacturers, and more. Typically there are two main actuator types: electric and pneumatic. If you are in the market for an actuator system, how can you determine which one is right for you and your operations? Here are some things to consider. 

Pneumatic Versus Electric Actuators

Pneumatic and electric actuators each offer a wide range of torque outputs and can be controlled in many environments to effectively move air or liquids and provide precision control. 

Pneumatic actuators utilize a cylinder, diaphragm, or rotary vane design. In this configuration, compressed air drives a paddle or piston to move it in one direction. To reverse or maintain the position of the paddle or piston, a counterforce consisting of a spring or a second volume of compressed air is applied. 

Electric actuators convert electricity into kinetic energy using a motor that can operate with a variety of voltages and currents. These devices can effectively move loads or create force to produce actions such as helping to regulate the flow of air and fluids in various industrial applications. 

Both actuator types offer years of dependable operation and can represent a cost savings over manually operated valves. Certainly, availability of electric power or plant air is a major factor in selection, but beyond this, the choice should be made based on specific applications.

DynaQuip Pneumatic Actuators 

Available in double acting (fail-in-place) or spring return (fail-open/closed) configurations, DynaQuip pneumatic actuators are available in torques ranging from 100 to 46,540 pounds. These actuators are available with accessories such as solenoid pilot valves, positioners, valve position limit switches, speed control, and dribble control.

DynaQuip pneumatic actuators are suggested for a wide variety of industrial applications, including environments and operational tasks in which rapid cycling is required; plant air is plentiful; hazardous and submerged locations; fail-safe applications; and high-ambient temperature areas. 

DynaQuip Electric Actuators 

Designed with a wide range of voltages and torques, DynaQuip electric actuators feature a variety of accessories, including auxiliary limit switches, heaters, timers, modulating controls, continuous position indication, and fail-safe options. These actuators are also NEMA rated for specific environmental requirements. 

Suggested applications for these electric actuators include environments in which an electric current is available (AC or DC); plant or compressor air is not practical; corrosive materials are present; mobile and truck-mounted applications; cold ambient temperatures and locations where water hammer is a concern; and distributed control systems. 

Committed to Actuator Excellence

At DynaQuip, we work where you work and have the electric and pneumatic actuator options you need for your specific applications. We’re always ready to listen to your challenges, assess your needs and partner with you to deliver lasting excellence and performance. 

For more information, explore our website or feel free to contact us at 800-545-3636. Let’s work together to solve your challenges.