Advantages of Electric Actuators:
1. Electrical actuators offer the highest precision-control positioning.
2. Electrical actuators can be networked and reprogrammed quickly. They offer immediate feedback for diagnostics and maintenance.
3. They provide complete control of motion profiles and can include encoders to control velocity, position, torque and applied force.
4. In terms of noise, they are quieter than pneumatic and hydraulic actuators.
5. There are no fluid leaks, environmental hazards are eliminated.
Disadvantages of Electric Actuators:
1. The initial unit cost of an electrical actuator is higher than that of pneumatic and hydraulic actuators.
2. Electrical actuators are not suited for all environments, unlike pneumatic actuators, which are safe in hazardous and flammable areas.
3. A continuously running motor will overheat, increasing wear and tear on the reduction gear. The motor can also be large and create installation problems.
4. The motor chosen locks in the actuator’s force, thrust and speed limits to a fixed setting.