Formula used
How to use this calculator
Enter the moved mass, orientation, friction, stroke, and motion time. Add external resistance, counterbalance, acceleration, and mounting geometry when those effects matter. Select realistic efficiency and safety values from manufacturer information.
Use the pivoted mode for lids, hatches, panels, beds, and hinged doors. Measure the load center, actuator attachment point, and actuator angle carefully. Small mounting angles can multiply force dramatically near a closed position.
Review rated force, loaded speed, power, current, duty cycle, screw torque, and structural warnings together. A motor can meet force while failing thermal or current limits. Confirm every final selection against certified manufacturer curves.
Linear actuator sizing guidance
Linear actuator selection begins with the real resisting force, not only load weight. Horizontal systems commonly need friction and acceleration force. Vertical systems must support gravity, dynamic force, and safe holding behavior.
Inclined mechanisms combine gravity along the slope with friction against the surface. Pivoted mechanisms add leverage, changing force through the travel. The worst mounting position should control the selected actuator rating.
Speed directly changes mechanical power because power equals force multiplied by velocity. Higher force at higher speed requires a larger motor, controller, and supply. Gear reduction trades speed for torque but introduces additional efficiency losses.
Lead screws often provide economical thrust and self-locking behavior. Ball screws are usually faster and more efficient but may back-drive. Screw diameter, unsupported length, end supports, and rotational speed determine stability limits.
Duty cycle is equally important because actuator ratings are often intermittent. Repeated starts can heat motors and switching devices quickly. Ambient temperature, enclosure sealing, contamination, and poor ventilation may reduce usable output.
Electrical sizing should include operating current, startup current, cable voltage drop, controller margin, and battery depth. Long cables can reduce available actuator voltage and speed. Protective devices should tolerate normal surges without ignoring fault protection.
Multiple actuators rarely share load perfectly without synchronization. Structural deflection and mounting tolerances can overload one actuator. Use conservative load sharing or electronic synchronization for wide platforms and doors.
This calculator provides a preliminary engineering estimate for comparison and planning. It does not replace load testing, risk assessment, or certified design review. Always follow actuator, screw, controller, and machinery safety documentation.
Example data
| Application | Load | Orientation | Stroke | Travel time | Suggested safety factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sliding gate | 120 kg | Horizontal | 400 mm | 20 s | 1.5 |
| Vertical lift | 75 kg | Vertical upward | 500 mm | 15 s | 2.0 |
| Tilting solar panel | 45 kg | Pivoted | 300 mm | 25 s | 1.75 |
| Inclined conveyor stop | 200 kg | Inclined | 150 mm | 5 s | 2.0 |