Linear Actuator 12V DC - 100mm Stroke, 800N Load, 5mm/s Speed (Heavy Duty)

Specifications

• Operating Voltage: 12V DC

• Stroke Length: 100mm (4 inches)

• Max Load (Push/Pull): 800N (approx. 80 kg / 176 lbs)

• Travel Speed: 5mm/s (No Load)

• Limit Switches: Built-in (Non-adjustable, auto-stop at ends)

• Material: Aluminium Alloy Housing

• Duty Cycle: 25% (e.g., 1 min work, 3 min rest)

• Protection Rating: IP54 (Dust and Splash Resistant)

• Noise Level: < 50 dB

• Retracted Length: Approx. 205mm (Body + Stroke)

• Extended Length: Approx. 305mm

Key Applications & Projects

• Solar Tracking Systems: Automatically tilt solar panels to follow the sun for maximum efficiency (requires slow, high-torque movement).

• Home Automation: Build hidden TV lifts, automated skylights, or heavy trapdoors that require 80kg of lifting force.

• Medical & Mobility: Replacement actuator for adjustable hospital beds or electric recliners.

• Agri-Tech: Open and close greenhouse vents based on temperature sensor readings.

Unlock New Capabilities (Project Evolution)

• Prerequisite: You may have built robots with Standard Servos, but realized they can't lift heavy chassis or maintain position without power.

• The Upgrade: This Linear Actuator is self-locking. Once it reaches a position and power is cut, it holds the load mechanically. This unlocks "Set-and-Forget" applications where you don't need continuous power to keep an object lifted.

• Effort Level: Intermediate. Requires mechanical mounting planning and a high-current reversing circuit.

Virtual Technician: Wiring & Safety Guide ⚠️

• Polarity Control: To extend the shaft, apply +12V to Red and GND to Black. To retract, Reverse the Polarity (GND to Red, +12V to Black).

• Driver Requirement: Do not power via Arduino. Use a DPDT Rocker Switch (Manual) or a 2-Channel Relay Module (Microcontroller) configured in an H-Bridge to flip the voltage.

• Power Supply: This motor can draw up to 3A-4A at max load. Use a 12V 5A Power Supply.

Accessories

• Included: 1 x Linear Actuator 12V DC - 100mm Stroke, 800N Load, 5mm/s Speed

• Required (Sold Separately):

  • 12V 5A Power Adapter

  • DPDT Switch (Momentary) or 2-Channel Relay Module

  • Mounting Brackets (Specialized U-brackets for actuator ends)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does it stop automatically at the end?

   • Yes, it has internal limit switches. It will cut power to the motor automatically when fully extended or retracted.

2. Can I stop it halfway?

   • Yes, simply cut the power. The actuator will stop and hold its position immediately.

3. Is it waterproof?

   • It is IP54 rated, meaning it can withstand rain and splashes, but it cannot be submerged underwater.

4. How do I control the speed?

   • You can use a PWM motor speed controller (12V 5A+), but reducing voltage will also significantly reduce the pushing force.

5. Can I adjust the stroke length?

   • No, the limit switches are fixed inside. You must use external limit switches if you need a shorter range.

6. Will it slide back down if power is lost?

   • No. The lead screw design is Self-Locking. It will hold the load (up to rated capacity) even without power.

7. Can I use two of these together?

   • Yes, but DC motors have slight speed variances (+/- 5%). For perfect synchronization, you need a specialized sync controller or encoder feedback.

8. What happens if I overload it (>80kg)?

   • The motor will stall and overheat. There is no internal thermal fuse, so prolonged stalling will burn the motor.

9. What is the hole diameter for mounting?

   • Standard mounting holes are usually 6mm or 8mm (check specific batch visual).

10. Can I use a 12V car battery?

    • Yes, a car battery provides excellent current capability for this actuator.

11. Why is it so slow (5mm/s)?

    • Speed is traded for Torque. To lift 80kg with a small 12V motor, high gear reduction is required.

12. Can I use this for a flight simulator?

    • Likely too slow. Flight sims usually require faster actuators (50mm/s+) with lower load ratings.

13. Is the housing metal or plastic?

    • The main tube and gearbox housing are Aluminum Alloy. The motor cap is typically high-impact plastic.

14. How loud is it?

    • It makes a steady mechanical gear noise (<50dB), similar to a power window in a car.

15. Does it need maintenance?

    • The internal screw is pre-greased. No user maintenance is required for the device's lifespan.

16. Can I rotate the shaft manually?

    • No, the gearing prevents manual rotation. You must use power to move it.

17. What wire gauge should I use?

    • For runs under 2 meters, 18 AWG is sufficient. For longer runs, use 16 AWG to prevent voltage drop.

18. Can I use a 24V supply?

    • No. 24V will spin the motor too fast and burn the brushes or strip the gears.

19. Is this suitable for a standing desk?

    • Yes, provided the total weight (desk + equipment) is under 80kg per actuator.

20. Does it have position feedback (Potentiometer)?

    • No, this is a standard 2-wire version. It does not output its position.