custom linear actuators

Progressive Automations Custom Linear Actuators

Gregory Kimbell
Gregory Kimbell
PA Engineer

At Progressive Automations, we have a wide variety of actuators in stock with a range of stroke sizes and forces to choose from. We also understand that every user’s application is unique. For this reason, we provide our customers with custom options to fit their needs. From customized stroke sizes and increased forces to implementing positional feedback, we can tailor a linear actuator to your needs. In this article, I will be going over the various options we have to offer. 

Implementation of linear actuators has gained the attention of farmers, machine workers, and even hobbyists. We know that not all applications are identical, and because of this, they may call for different actuator attributes to get the job done, such as:

Custom Input Voltage

Our stock input voltage for our actuators in-house are 12VDC. We can customize the input voltages from 12VDC to 24VDC, 36VDC or even 48VDC. This may be helpful for implementing our actuators to an existing system you may already have.

Custom Stroke size

If your application requires a stroke size that falls in-between the measurements we have listed, we can produce a stroke size down to the quarter inch measurement. If you need a specific stroke size where space is limited, we can also customize the stroke housing to be shorter than the stroke rod. This can allow the actuator to extend the distance while the body of the unit stays more compact.

Custom Max Load Force

We can also alter the gearing ratio for our linear actuators, resulting in a stronger force. This is useful for getting a larger force out of a smaller linear actuator that may be required due to size restraints. We try to cover the most parameters with our stock forces; however, your application may call for a slightly lower force to keep the travel speed within range.

Implementing Hall Effect Sensors and Potentiometers

For synchronization or positional feedback, a portion of our linear actuators are eligible for Hall Effect Sensor or Potentiometer customization. A Hall Effect Sensor-equipped linear actuator is important if your application calls for 2 or more linear actuators to travel as one. This will help deter any discrepancies in timing, speed, and load experienced by the actuators.  We now carry the PA-04-HS for synchronization in a 400lbs max load force in both 12VDC and 24VDC. For more information on synchronizing actuators, check out one of our featured article on this topic!

Custom Linear Actuators
Our PA-09 actuator customized with a Hall Effect sensor and connector

Other Various Customization Options

We also have additional customization options for a portion of eligible linear actuators such as: 

• A brushless DC motor for the PA-14 model, use it with our LC-241 controller to achieve a 100% duty cycle for continuous cycling. 

• An Increased IP rating to 65 for higher protection against dust particles and water exposure. 

• Custom mounting hole diameters to increase or decrease the stock diameter of the mounting hole size. 

• An increased lead wire length. 

• Custom connectors attached to the end of the actuators wire lead. 

• Tapped Holes for a threaded end of the stroke rod. 

• And more! 

Please note that when ordering custom units, this will require an approximate 20-25 business day lead time for production as well as additional costs. We recommend reaching us at 1-800-676-6123 to place an order for custom orders to ensure we get all the specifications accurate for any custom unit we produce. For More information, you can reach us at 1-800-676-6123 or by emailing us at sales@progressiveautomations.com.