From industrial machinery to home automation systems, and more, linear actuators powered by electric motors enable movement with the required angle, precision, and so on. When selecting the right electric linear actuator for your project, one of the key considerations is voltage. The most common options are 12V and 24V linear actuators, wherein each comes with distinct advantages.
While Venture offers 12V, 18V, 36V, 48V, 90V, 120V DC actuators, this post explores the differences between 12V and 24V linear actuators, their respective benefits, and ideal applications, which may help you determine the right actuator based on your application needs. The same principles apply as the DC voltage increases. Venture also supplies a very low-cost rectifier, to use in converting traditional AC voltage to DC voltage.
Difference Between 12V and 24V Actuators
Understanding their differences is essential to selecting the right actuator for your application.
- Power and Performance: A 12V linear actuator typically offers lower power output, making it more suitable for lighter, smaller-scale applications. It operates with less force and slower speeds, ideal for tasks that don’t demand heavy-duty performance. While, 24V linear actuator delivers more power, providing faster speeds and greater force.
- Speed: In terms of speed, a 12V linear actuator operates at a slower pace, making it suitable for precise movements where speed is not a priority. A 24V linear actuator is generally faster due to the higher voltage, which is beneficial in applications where speed is a key factor, such as in conveyor systems or heavy machinery.
- Loads: When it comes to force and load capacity, 12V actuators are designed for lighter loads and smaller-scale tasks. They are perfect for applications that don’t require significant lifting or pushing power. In contrast, 24V linear actuators are designed to handle much heavier loads, making them better suited for industrial environments.
- Energy efficiency: The 12V linear actuators are generally more energy-efficient for smaller applications because they consume less power. This can lead to longer battery life when used in off-grid or portable systems. However, 24V actuators are more efficient in handling larger loads and higher demands, although they consume more power.
- Size and installation: 12-volt actuators tend to be more compact and lightweight, making them easier to fit into tight spaces. They can be powered by smaller, simpler power sources such as batteries, which adds to their versatility. While, 24V actuators are slightly larger, are better suited for environments with substantially high power requirements and may require additional wiring or control systems for installation.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Between 12V and 24V Actuators
Here are some pointers that will help you choose the right actuator.
- Power requirements: If your application requires a high level of force or speed, a 24V linear actuator will be a better option. These actuators are designed for heavier-duty tasks and offer a greater output of power. And, if your application requires minimal force and slower, more controlled movement, a 12V actuator is likely the better choice.
- Type of application: For smaller projects like home automation systems, adjustable beds, or solar-powered applications, a 12V actuator may be appropriate. It’s compact, energy efficient, and cost-effective for such uses. In contrast, larger industrial systems, robotic arms, or automotive applications require a 24V actuator for handling larger static and dynamic loads, speeds, and rotational as well as linear movements.
- Energy consumption and efficiency: A 12V actuator consumes less power, which is more energy-efficient for low-demand applications. A 24V actuator, while consuming more power, is more efficient at transferring power to mechanical movement when handling heavy-duty tasks, so it can still be energy-efficient when used in high-demand applications.
Learn more on this topic in our related blog: Maintenance Tips for 12V Linear Actuator for Smooth Operation
Need a perfect linear actuator for your project? Visit Venture Manufacturing’s website to explore our range of high-performance linear actuators. We offer a range of electric linear actuators to suit a variety of applications. Whether you need a 12V linear actuator for a small project or a 24V linear actuator for industrial applications, our team is here to guide you toward the right solution.