Linear Actuators

Linear actuators are a device that creates motion in a straight line, as opposed to the rotational motion of a motor. It consists of a motor, a lead screw, and a moving rod or shaft. The rotation of the motor turns the lead screw, this screw is threaded in a way that converts the rotational motion of the motor into linear motion, causing the rod or shaft to extend or retract. Linear actuators are commonly used in applications that require precise and controlled straight-line movement, such as climbing tasks, driving arms, actuating intakes, and deploying other diverse mechanisms. Their design allows for efficient, reliable, and smooth operation in various mechanical systems.

Linear Actuator - 12in Stroke

Looking to assemble a Linear Actuator - 12in Stroke? Check out our Linear Actuator Assembly guide!

Specifications

Parameter	Value	Units
Outer Body Width Size	2x2	Inches
Inner Body Width Size	1x1	Inches
Minimum Retracted Length	16	Inches
Minimum Extended Length †	28	Inches
Body Material	Aluminum	-
Screw Material	Steel	-
Nut Material	Brass	-

†	Minimum Retracted Length + Stroke Length

Lead Screw Specifications

Parameter	Value	Units
Stroke Length	12	Inches
Diameter	10	mm
Pitch	2	mm
Starts	6	-
Lead Angle	22.26	Degrees
Pitch Diameter	9.33	mm
Forward Efficiency	65	Percentage
Buckling Critical Load †	500	lbs
Thread Type	Metric Rounded ACME	-

†	The safety pin on the leadscrew is rated to shear at 500lbs of tensile load GIVEN that the linear actuator is mounted rigidly as demonstrated in this application example - Rigid Linear Actuator.

Motor Tables

The below tables provide the mathematical performance possibilities, and assume 1:1 gearing and 100% vertical load. Cantilever load and gear reductions will change these numbers. We recommend using a lead screw calculator such as the AMB Robotics Calculator for Lead Screws to find the numbers for your application.

Link to pre-filled AMB Linear Actuator Calculator
Linear Actuator - 12in Stroke (REV-21-2735), Lubricated

Special thanks to Ari Meles-Braverman for creating and maintaining the AMB Robotics Calculator!

NEO Vortex Brushless Motor

MAX RPM Percentage	Input RPM	Applied Torque (N*m)	Maximum Output Load (N) @ Stall	Maximum Linear Speed (m/s) @ Zero Load
20	1357	2.88	1508	0.27
40	2714	2.16	1131	0.54
60	4070	1.44	754	0.81
80	5427	0.72	377	1.08
100	6784	0	0	1.35

NEO Brushless Motor V1.1

MAX RPM Percentage	Input RPM	Applied Torque (N*m)	Maximum Output Load (N) @ Stall	Maximum Linear Speed (m/s) @ Zero Load
20	1164	2.40	1257	0.23
40	2328	1.80	942	0.47
60	3492	1.20	628	0.70
80	4656	0.60	314	0.93
100	5820	0	0	1.16