Our Track Actuators are suited for carrying loads along the length of the actuator

The main advantage of a track actuator is that it requires less space to operate since there's no need to extend a rod. Rather, a load can be mounted onto the sliding carriage and moved along the body of the actuator.

What are the Differences Between Track Linear Actuators & Rod Linear Actuators?

Both styles of actuators convert electrical energy to linear motion via a motor and gearbox, but the main difference is how that linear motion is delivered. In your standard rod linear actuator, the rotational motion from the gearbox is converted to linear motion by the use of a lead screw which extends and retracts the rod. The track linear actuator still makes use of a lead screw to convert rotational motion to linear motion, but instead of a rod, it uses a sliding carriage that moves along the length of the lead screw. This means there is no telescopic motion, like with rod linear actuators, but has a fixed length that the carriage slides along. Outside of this difference, you will see that most track actuators will have similar specifications, like available stroke lengths and load capacities, as their rod actuator counterparts.

Where are Track Actuators used?

As mentioned above, track linear actuators are ideal for sliding applications and are better suited to indoor situations due to their lower IP rating. Track actuators are often used in schools for sliding whiteboards and chalkboards or in custom cabinetry, like with motorized sliding doors. They can also be used in more industrial applications like in CNC machines and 3D printers to position components over a fix length. You can consider using a track linear actuator over a rod linear actuator in situations where you have movement in one direction and do not require telescopic motion. FIRGELLI Automations offers both a heavy duty track actuator and mini track actuator to meet your motorized sliding needs of your next project.