The renewable energy industry has witnessed massive positive change after the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris in 2015 and the COP26 Summit in Glasgow in November 2021. Countries across the globe have committed to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and increase reliance on clean and renewable energy systems.
Consequently, the demand for renewable energy equipment has surged over the last few years. Although types of such equipment and resources have evolved over the years, specific components remain constant, and Electric Linear Actuators are one of them. For instance, electric linear actuators now find applications in solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy applications to facilitate desired movements, precise motion, and more
Having said so, it is pretty obvious to think how electric linear actuators actually contribute to the performance of renewable energy equipment. What are the applications of electric linear actuators for renewable energy? Read this post to know more.
Why Choose Electric Linear Actuators for Renewable Energy Applications?
Electric linear actuators benefit the renewable energy segment in many ways. Here are some typical benefits.
- Accuracy: Electric actuators offer precise and accurate control over the movement and positioning of various components in renewable energy systems. This helps optimize the performance of wind turbines, solar panels, and more.
- Low Noise: Electric actuators operate quietly unlike most conventional systems that are noisy due to air compression or fluid movement. Their electric motors produce less noise and vibration, contributing to quieter and safer working environments. Hence, they find applications where low noise is a prerequisite, such as home offices, healthcare facilities, and more.
- Low Maintenance: Linear actuators require lower maintenance than traditional mechanical systems. Their sturdy, robust construction reduces wear even after continuous use that results in a long operational life.
- Energy Efficiency: As the name implies, they are driven by electricity and feature no power-hungry compressors or oil pumps. Thus, it consumes less power, resulting in significant cost savings over time. The absence of oil or compressors means there are no oil leaks or stains, which can cause harm to the environment.
- Flexibility: They are more versatile and flexible compared to other actuator types. Linear actuators can be easily integrated into existing systems, and parameters such as their force, speed, and stroke, can be adjusted to suit specific applications. Also, by combining them with advanced software or PLCs they can perform multiple tasks, making them the ideal choice for applications requiring a high level of automation.
- Durability and Resistance: They are designed to operate at various speeds and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. They are durable and can contribute to performing effectively in the renewable sector for a long timeframe.
5 Key Applications of Electric Actuators in Renewable Energy Sector
The following are a few applications driven by electric linear actuators.
- Solar Tracking Systems: They are the cornerstone of clean energy production. But solar panels need to align correctly with the sun’s rays. Electric linear actuators play a crucial role here. They are used to adjust the angle and orientation of solar panels, ensuring they capture maximum sunlight. This accurate tracking results in higher energy yields and a shortened ROI period for solar installations.
- Wind Turbine Pitch Control: Electric actuators are paramount in pitch control systems for adjusting the angle of wind turbine blades to optimize energy production. This helps improve the overall efficiency of wind turbines and extends their lifespan by reducing possible stress on the system during turbulent weather conditions.
- Hydropower Applications: Be it a small-scale or large-scale hydroelectric installation, various adjustments and controls are required for its functioning. Linear actuators make a significant difference here. They regulate the water flow, gate positioning, valve control, and more. This ensures safe and efficient operation of hydropower plants.
- Energy Storage Systems: These systems are essential for balancing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. Linear actuators control the positioning of energy storage components such as pumped hydro storage systems, allowing efficient energy storage and discharge. This flexibility guarantees a constant supply of clean energy.
- Maintenance and Remote Monitoring: Predictive maintenance and remote monitoring are integral in renewable energy systems. Actuators play a key role in adjusting cameras and sensors for real-time data collection and remote diagnostics. This approach helps identify potential issues early and reduce downtime, resulting in increased reliability of renewable energy installations.
By now, you may have gotten an idea of the significance of electric actuators in renewable energy equipment. The performance and efficiency of renewable energy equipment largely depends on the quality of linear actuators as they facilitate the required motion. Thus, it is essential to source them from reliable suppliers in the industry such as Venture Mfg. Co. The company offers electric linear actuators that can be easily integrated into renewable energy equipment.
Depending on the application needs, the company also provides these actuators with custom specifications. contact the experts at Venture Mfg. Co. today to discuss your actuator needs.