Top Tips for Choosing The Right Electric Cylinder for Your Application

Choosing the right electric cylinder can help your work and save money. You should match the technical needs, think about your workplace, and see if the system fits your setup. Even small things, like how you install it and how often it runs, can change how well it works. The table below lists some common technical needs for industrial jobs:

FDR’s Electric Cylinder series gives you smart choices for many jobs. It helps you pick the best one for your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Figure out what your application needs. Decide what kind of movement you want. Think about if you need straight-line motion or gripping.

• Work out how much weight the cylinder must move. Know where the center of gravity is. Make sure the electric cylinder can hold the load safely. Check that it works in every direction.

• Make clear goals for force, speed, and accuracy. This helps you pick a cylinder that fits your needs.

• Look at the environment before you install anything. Make sure the electric cylinder can handle dust and water. Check if it can work with temperature changes in your area.

• Use help from the manufacturer. Read FDR's guides and ask their team for advice. This helps you avoid mistakes and pick the right cylinder.

Understand Your Application Needs

Define Motion and Function

First, you should know what your application needs. Think about how you want the electric cylinder to move. Some jobs need straight-line movement. Others need turning or gripping actions. FDR Electric Cylinders are used in many places. They work in heavy-duty material handling and robotics. They are also used in precision manufacturing. You can find them in the entertainment industry. They are in iron and steel plants too. Automotive factories and food processing lines use them as well.

Here is a table showing common applications and their industries:

You should check how the cylinder will move. Think about what jobs it will do. If you need to lift, push, or place things very accurately, FDR Electric Cylinders can help. They can repeat moves up to ±0.01mm. This means you get the same results every time.

Set Performance Goals

You need to set clear goals for how the cylinder should work. Decide how much force, speed, and accuracy you need. Robotics may need quick and exact moves. Heavy-duty jobs need strong thrust and to last a long time. FDR Electric Cylinders can give thrust from 200 kg to 10,000 kg. You can pick the right one for your job.

Choosing the right cylinder helps your system work better. It gives you good motion control and makes your system last longer. Picking the best cylinder also saves energy and money. Try not to use extreme transfer angles. This helps the cylinder force work best for your job.

Tip: Write down what your application needs before you choose a cylinder. This makes it easier to compare and pick the right one for your goals.

Electric Cylinder Load and Force Selection

Calculate Load Requirements

You need to know how much weight your electric cylinder will move. Start by checking the center of gravity of your load. Look at where it sits compared to the shaft guide’s center. This helps you figure out how the load will act in three directions: pitching, yawing, and rolling.

• Pitching (MP) means the load tips forward or backward.

• Yawing (MY) means the load turns left or right.

• Rolling (MR) means the load twists around the shaft.

You should use the right formulas to make sure your load moments stay safe.

Load Moment Formula:
(\frac{|\Delta \mathrm{M_P}|}{\mathrm{M_P}} + \frac{|\Delta \mathrm{M_Y}|}{\mathrm{M_Y}} + \frac{|\Delta \mathrm{M_R}|}{\mathrm{M_R}} \leqq 1)

Check that your numbers fit within the limits for both static and moving loads. This step helps you avoid problems and keeps your applications running smoothly. FDR’s electric cylinder series gives you a high thrust range from 200 kg to 10,000 kg. You can pick the right model for your applications, whether you need to lift heavy items or handle delicate tasks.

Assess Force and Safety Margins

You must choose the right force for your applications. Do not guess or use the highest possible number. Find the real peak force your job needs. Oversizing the actuator can cost more money and waste energy. You should stay within the rated capacity of your electric cylinder. Always check the column strength so your cylinder does not bend or fail.

Good force selection helps your system work better. It also improves performance and keeps your equipment safe. FDR electric cylinders offer precise control, so you can trust them for many types of applications. When you size your cylinder correctly, you get reliable performance and longer life.

Stroke Length and Speed Considerations

Determine Stroke Distance

You must know how far the electric cylinder moves. Stroke length is the total distance it travels. Different jobs need different stroke lengths. Material handling uses short strokes for quick moves. Robotics may need longer strokes to reach or lift. Always check the stroke range before picking a cylinder. The table below shows common stroke lengths for popular types:

Pick a stroke length that fits your job. If the stroke is too short, it will not reach. If it is too long, you waste space and money. FDR electric cylinders have flexible stroke options. You can find the right one for your needs.

Tip: Measure how far your load must move. Write down the smallest and largest stroke you need. This helps you pick the best cylinder for your setup.

Specify Velocity Needs

Speed is important for smooth and accurate moves. Velocity means how fast the cylinder moves each time. Set a speed that fits your job and keeps things safe. Electric actuator systems let you control velocity very well. You can change how fast it starts and stops. This makes machines work better and finish jobs faster.

Engineers like electric actuator systems for better motion control. You can change speeds without stopping the cylinder. This is important for high accuracy and repeatable moves. Setting the right speed helps you work better and faster. FDR electric cylinders let you program speed for each job. You get the best results every time.

Note: Always check your cylinder’s speed limits. Going too fast can make it less accurate and wear out sooner.

Duty Cycle and Operation Frequency

Analyze Cycle Times

You need to know how often your electric cylinder will work. Cycle time is how long it runs and then rests. If you use it all day, it gets more stress. If you use it only a few times, it gets less stress. Look at your schedule and count how many times it moves each hour. This helps you plan for better use and longer life.

Different screw types have different duty cycle ratings. Here are the usual ratings for electric cylinder designs:

• Ball screw versions can run about 35% of the time.

• Acme screw versions can run about 25% of the time.

If your job needs the cylinder to run more than these numbers, it may wear out faster. It may not last as long. Always check the duty cycle before you pick a model for your job.

Tip: Write down your cycle times and compare them to the cylinder’s rating. This helps you avoid problems and keeps your system working well.

Match Cylinder Ratings

You must pick a cylinder that matches your job’s needs. Using it a lot can make it wear out faster. If you run it many times each day, the parts get more stress. Gears and bearings can wear out from moving all the time. Heat can build up and hurt the parts. Lubrication can break down faster and cause more friction. Electrical parts can have problems like sparks and aging faster. Vibrations from using it a lot can loosen bolts and make the structure weak. Very hot or cold weather makes these problems worse and can make the cylinder last less time.

Pick a cylinder that fits your cycle times and job needs. FDR electric cylinders are made to be strong and reliable. When you match the rating to your needs, you get better use and longer life. This saves money and keeps your job running without trouble.

Note: Always check the manufacturer’s data for duty cycle and operation frequency. This helps you pick the best cylinder for your setup.

Environmental and Installation Factors

Assess Site Conditions

Look at your work area before picking an electric cylinder. Many things around you can change how well it works. Dust and water can cause problems for your equipment. Big changes in temperature can also hurt the cylinder. Leaks can make things dirty and unsafe. Electromagnetic interference can mess up how the cylinder works. Electrical surges can also cause trouble.

FDR electric cylinders have an IP67 rating. This gives strong protection from dust and water. You can use these cylinders in tough places like farms and construction sites. They also work in special vehicles. The table below shows what IP67 means:

You get better reliability and less downtime. You spend less money fixing things because the cylinder is safe from damage.

Tip: Always check your site for dust, water, and temperature problems before you install.

Plan Mounting and Space

Plan your setup before you install the cylinder. Space is important in every job. A small design lets you fit the cylinder in tight spots. You can use your space better and not waste any room. Flexible mounting options help you put the cylinder in many ways. You can set it up for straight moves or moves in an arc.

The table below shows how a small design and flexible mounting help you:

You can use rigid mounting for straight moves. Clevis and eye mounts let you move in an arc. You get more choices for your job. You finish the setup faster and with less trouble.

Note: Plan your setup so you use space well and pick the best mounting for your job.

System Compatibility and Integration

Electrical and Control Systems

You need to check if your electric cylinder works with your system. First, look at what your job needs. Check stroke length, force output, and speed. These help you pick the right cylinder. Think about how you will mount it and what the area is like. Some places are hot or dusty. Pick a cylinder that can handle these problems.

Here is a table with the main things to check:

You should see if your control system can connect to the cylinder. FDR electric cylinders work with many types of automation. You can use them with PLCs and smart controllers. This lets you program moves and watch how it works. You get more control and can change things fast.

Tip: Always check your wiring and software before you put in a new cylinder. This helps you stop problems and saves time.

Mechanical Interfaces

You need to make sure the cylinder fits your machine. Look at the mounting choices and the space you have. FDR electric cylinders are small and fit in tight spots. You can use mounts like rigid, clevis, or eye mounts. This gives you more ways to set it up.

Check the shaft size and how the cylinder connects to other parts. Measure everything before you start. If you match the parts, the cylinder moves smoothly and lasts longer. Your system will also be safer.

• Use the right bolts and brackets.

• Make sure the cylinder lines up with your load.

• Test everything before you start the machine.

Planning your setup gives you better results. FDR electric cylinders are easy to add to many systems. You save time and get good performance.

Note: Always follow the maker’s rules for mounting and connecting your cylinder. This helps you avoid mistakes and keeps your system working well.

Reliability, Maintenance, and Support

Service Life and Zero Maintenance

You want your machines to work well for a long time. FDR electric cylinders give you this peace of mind. Each cylinder has a service life of over 10,000 hours. You do not need to stop your work for regular checks or repairs. This zero maintenance design means you can focus on your job, not on fixing equipment.

Here is how zero maintenance helps you:

• You do not need to replace seals or add oil, which saves you time and money.

• You avoid the extra costs that come with regular repairs.

• You do not have to worry about sudden breakdowns or lost work time.

• You get more value because you do not need to buy new parts often.

• You lower your total cost of ownership since you do not pay for extra labor or downtime.

Pneumatic cylinders need regular preventive maintenance, like changing seals and adding grease. Electric cylinders from FDR do not need these steps. This makes your work easier and helps you keep your machines running longer. You can trust the quality of FDR products to deliver strong reliability every day.

FDR Support and Documentation

You get more than just a product when you choose FDR. The company gives you full support from start to finish. You can find clear manuals and guides that help you set up and use your cylinder. If you have questions, FDR’s team is ready to help you solve problems fast.

FDR values quality in every step. You get detailed technical documents that make installation simple. The support team can help you plan preventive maintenance if you want extra peace of mind. You can always count on FDR to stand behind the quality of their products. This strong support helps you keep your machines working at their best.

Tip: Always use the official FDR guides and support channels to get the most out of your electric cylinder.

Cost, Value, and Energy Efficiency

Evaluate Total Cost

You want to know how much you will spend over time. The total cost includes the price to buy, run, and maintain your equipment. Many people think pneumatic systems cost less at first. You may pay less when you buy them. Over time, electric cylinders save you more money. You spend less on repairs and energy.

Here is a list that shows how costs change with different power levels:

• For a 0.1kW job, you pay about $130 more each year with electric actuators at 50% duty. At 80% duty, the cost goes up to $210.

• For a 0.5kW job, you pay about $655 more each year at 50% duty. At 80% duty, the cost is about $1050.

• Electric actuators become more cost-effective because you spend less on running and fixing them.

You get more value from electric cylinders because they last longer and need less care. You do not have to replace them often. You save money on parts and labor. This helps your business grow and keeps your machines working.

Consider Energy Savings

Energy use is important in every factory. Electric cylinders help you save energy in many applications. They work only when you need force. Pneumatic systems use energy all the time, even when they are not moving. This means you pay more for power.

Look at the table below to see how much energy you can save:

Electric actuators have higher efficiency. You get 40-70% energy savings compared to pneumatic systems. The cost of air for pneumatic systems can be higher than the price of electric cylinders in less than a year. You get a shorter payback period. You spend less on electricity and keep your bills low.

Electric cylinders also help the environment. You use less energy and make less waste. You get strong performance and lower costs. Over time, you see big savings in your factory.

Tip: Choose electric cylinders for better energy savings and long-term value.

Avoiding Common Selection Mistakes

Overlooking Application-Specific Needs

You must pick an electric cylinder that fits your job. Many people forget to check for special needs. If you do not look at temperature, the cylinder might not work right. Wet places or chemicals can break it early. Some jobs, like food processing, need safe cylinders.

You also need to pick the right size. If you choose one too big, you waste money and power. If you pick one too small, it may not work well or be safe. The wrong size can wear out fast and break the actuator.

People often make these mistakes:

• Not checking for tough environments.

• Not following safety or industry rules.

• Picking the wrong size for your load or move.

• Not thinking about how much you will use it.

Tip: Write down what your job needs before you choose. This helps you not make expensive mistakes.

Ignoring Manufacturer Guidance

You should always listen to the manufacturer’s advice. FDR gives you guides that show power needs and help you pick the right cylinder. The company can help you keep your cylinder safe from dust, water, and other problems. Experts can answer questions about how your cylinder will work in your system.

If you do not use these guides, your cylinder may not work well. Custom parts are made for special jobs and work better. Generic parts may not last or work as well. This can mean more repairs, higher costs, and unhappy users.

Here is a table of common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Note: Always use FDR’s guides and support team. You get better results and fewer problems.

You can pick the best electric cylinder by following easy steps. This helps you save time and not choose one that is too big. It also makes sure the cylinder fits your needs.

• Think about things like stroke length, load, and speed.

• Use sizing tools and charts from the maker to be sure.

You will get better results if you use these ideas. Ask FDR for help if you need it. Picking the right cylinder means you get good results for a long time.

FAQ

How do you choose the right FDR Electric Cylinder for your job?

You should list your load, stroke length, speed, and environment. Use FDR’s sizing charts and guides. If you need help, contact FDR support for advice.

Tip: Write down your needs before you start shopping.

Can you install FDR Electric Cylinders in wet or dusty places?

Yes, you can. FDR Electric Cylinders have an IP67 rating. This means they work well in places with dust or water. You get strong protection for your equipment.

Do FDR Electric Cylinders need regular maintenance?

No, you do not need regular maintenance. FDR Electric Cylinders have a zero maintenance design. You save time and money. The service life is over 10,000 hours.

Note: You can focus on your work, not on repairs.

How much energy can you save with FDR Electric Cylinders?

You can save 40-70% energy compared to pneumatic systems. Electric cylinders use power only when needed. This lowers your electricity bills and helps the environment.

• Less energy use

• Lower costs

• Greener operation

Where can you get help if you have questions about FDR Electric Cylinders?

You can reach FDR by email, phone, WhatsApp, or Skype. The support team answers questions and helps with installation or troubleshooting.