Custom linear actuators

Beyond Off-the-Shelf Solutions

At Actuonix Motion Devices, we take pride in offering the largest selection of affordable micro linear actuators. With over 250 models, we have an off-the-shelf solution for most applications.

We realize, however, that some projects require unique actuator configurations. Consider the product offerings on our website to be a starting point. Many of our products can be readily modified to suit specific requirements.

Our team can work with your specifications to design a custom linear actuator to fit your project and your budget. We can do anything you need, from a custom wire length or rod tip to an entirely new design.

Getting the Right Custom Linear Actuator for Your Project

Before engineering your custom linear actuator, let's begin by finding the right type of actuator for the job. Choose from a broad selection of products, including:

Rod Actuators: Rod actuators, often called rod-style linear actuators or electric cylinders, consist of a rod that extends and retracts in a linear motion. These actuators are typically powered by electric, hydraulic or pneumatic means. Their simplistic design makes them a common choice for various applications, from industrial machinery to automotive lifts, where pushing or pulling force is required.
Feedback Actuators: Feedback actuators are custom linear actuators equipped with a position feedback system, usually in the form of sensors, that provide real-time data on the actuator's position, speed or force. This allows for more precise control, monitoring and adjustments in applications requiring a high level of accuracy and repeatability.
Track Actuators: Track actuators, sometimes called track linear actuators, consist of a moving "carriage" or "block" that rides along an internal track. Unlike rod actuators that extend a rod outside their body, the moving part of a track actuator remains contained within its housing. This design is beneficial in applications where space is limited or where significant side loads are anticipated.

Modifications We Can Make to Create Your Custom Linear Actuator

The simplest and fastest way to have a custom actuator designed, is to start with one of our off the shelf products. We are able to a offer a broad range of customizations to our standard product lines and can often adapt one of our existing products to align with your specifications. Typically, we can make modifications to our stock actuators with a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 500pcs for changes such as:

Minimum order quantities (MOQ) may vary depending on the level of customization that you require.

Custom Limit Switch Positions or Position Feedback

Installing a custom PCB allows us to alter the electrical stroke of your actuator, while maintaining the same physical size and mechanical stroke
We can adjust the limit switch positions or the range of the position feedback output.
Lengthening or Shortening the mechanical stroke of your actuators requires the change of 3 metal parts, along with a new PCB

Custom Cables and Connectors

All of our actuators come with standard cables and connectors. While these are adequate for many purposes, we also offer custom cable and connector options for clients that need to integrate into a proprietary system. While the options are infinite, here are a few of the more common custom cable and connector options:

Installing a custom longer or shorter version of our standard wire
Installing a custom cable with more wires, different temperature and environmental ratings or better electromagnetic shielding
Attaching a custom locking, waterproof or proprietary connector
Connecting two or more actuators together in a single multipin connector

Custom Motors and Gearboxes

Fitting a larger motor for higher power output
Fitting a stepper or brushless motor for more precise control
Fitting a higher or lower ratio gearbox to adjust force and speed characteristics
Fitting a motor with custom windings for different operating voltages
Fitting a gearbox with an encoder to aid in position control

Custom Actuator End Tips

Custom sized clevis end tips
Piercing tips
Spring loaded tips
Flat plunger tips
Flex joint tips
Custom threaded end tips
End tips made from specialty materials

Why Actuonix Is Your Best Choice for Custom Actuators

In the realm of motion solutions, Actuonix stands above the rest. But what truly positions us as the leader in custom actuators? Here are some of the reasons our customers continue to rely on us:

Unmatched Expertise: With years in the industry, our knowledge of actuators isn't just theoretical – it's is tried, tested and proven. Our team combines this expertise with cutting-edge engineering skills to deliver top-tier custom actuators tailored to your needs.
Tailored Solutions: We understand that one size doesn't fit all. That's why we emphasize customization. From load capacity to travel distance and speed, our custom actuators are designed to fit your project's demands precisely.
Superior Quality: We take quality seriously. It's our promise. Actuonix custom actuators undergo rigorous testing and quality control checks to ensure longevity, durability and reliable performance.
Advanced Technology: We're not just keeping up with the latest technological advancements; we're pioneers in them. Our actuators leverage the most recent innovations, offering solutions that are both efficient and technologically forward.
Cost-Efficiency: Quality and cost often pull in opposite directions. But at Actuonix, we've struck the perfect balance. With our streamlined production process and resource optimization, we ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Responsive Support: Our relationship doesn't end with product delivery. We pride ourselves on our post-sales support, ensuring you have a smooth experience with your custom actuators at every step.
Global Recognition: Trust is built, not given. And over the years, we've built it robustly. Our clientele spans continents, validating our superiority in the custom linear actuator domain.

In essence, when you choose Actuonix, you're not just choosing a product but a legacy of excellence, precision and unwavering commitment to your project's success. Actuonix isn't just another name in the market – it's the name you can trust for all your custom linear actuator needs.

Need A Completely Custom Actuator?

If you need custom actuators with more extensive modifications, we can work with you to adapt one of our existing designs or create a completely new custom linear actuator. This is sometimes the case when your design requirements fall well outside what is offered in our standard lineup. Things like changing the mounting setup, developing a custom longer-stroke actuator or designing something in a completely different form factor. To make more significant modifications that call for plastic tooling changes or custom design work, we typically require an MOQ of 2,000 pieces and an NRE deposit. This may be greater depending on the job.

When You Only Need Minor Adjustments

If you don't require 500 units and only need to adjust the stroke length or speed of the device, you have a few options. Our Linear Actuator Control Board allows you to set custom end limits and reduce the speed on our P series actuators. The board is $30 and is an affordable option for small quantities of custom linear actuators. We also offer an external end-limit switch kit which will allow you to to physically locate your own custom end limits.

Actuonix Helps You Create the Best Custom Actuators for Your Project

Don't compromise on the heart of your machinery. With Actuonix, you'll benefit from our unparalleled expertise and commitment to quality. Whether you're in robotics, automation or any field requiring precise movement, our custom actuator products can be tailored to meet your exact needs. Ready to elevate your project to the next level? Reach out today and let's bring your vision to life!

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Actuators

We've answered a few questions about custom linear actuators here, but please reach out if you'd like to know more.

Do I Need A Custom Actuator?

Not necessarily! There are a number of ways that you can customize your actuator without committing to a completely custom unit. Our LAC board opens up a range of options including control of extend and retract end points, sensitivity, speed and inputs. If you want to reduce the stroke of an -S or -P series actuator, you can also achieve this with an external end limit switch kit. It is also possible to produce your own rod end tips if you wish. If you're unsure whether or not a custom actuator is the right choice, reach out to our sales team at [email protected] for more guidance.

How Do Custom Linear Actuators Differ From Regular Actuators in Terms of Quality and Reliability?

Custom linear actuators are built to the same high quality and reliability standards as our other products. The primary difference is the design and specifications. Tailoring the actuator to the specific requirements of your product simplifies the design process for our clients. This frees up resources within their business to focus on other aspects of product development.

How Long Does it Typically Take to Produce a Custom Linear Actuator?

The production time for a custom linear actuator varies depending on the complexity of the design, required specifications and the manufacturer's current workload. While some customizations might only require minor modifications, taking just a few days or weeks, others might need extensive design and testing, taking months to complete. For more information on how long you can expect it to take to produce your particular design, reach out to our sales team at [email protected].

What Are Your Minimum Order Quantities For Custom Designs?

Typically, we can make modifications to our stock actuators with a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 500pcs. For more significant product modifications or completely custom actuator design, MOQ can vary, but will typically be 2000 units.

Why Should I Choose Actuonix?

Good question! We have more off the shelf products than our competition, reducing the chance that you will need a completely custom device. Additionally, with 20 years experience manufacturing quality actuators, you can be sure that whether stock or custom, you're going to get a long-lasting, high quality device. Many micro actuators on the market today are copies of our original designs. We offer the best client support in the industry and ship all in-stock orders out same-day.

Can I Use An Actuonix Actuator To Replace One That I Already Have?

Actuonix actuators can be used as replacements in many applications. If you need help determining which actuator will best suit as a replacement, please contact us to discuss. There are many variables to consider including voltage, motor type, control system, stroke length, load and more.

Do You Outsource Manufacturing?

No, we do not. All of our off the shelf and custom actuator products are built in our own factory. We source all of our own parts and manage our quality control processes from start to finish.

Can Any Actuonix Actuator be Customized?

Any of our existing designs can be a starting point for a new actuator. Depending on model, there may be limitations with regards to what customizations are possible, but every one of our actuator models can be customized.

Does Actuonix Offer Development Discounts?

We sometimes do, yes. This is at our discretion and on a case by case basis. That said, if you're looking for a motion control solution and want to discuss a discounted actuator to test in your design, we can often facilitate this type of request. Quantity limits will apply.

How Can I Synchronize Multiple Actuators?

It is possible to synchronize multiple actuators. How to approach this depends on the level of accuracy that you need. Due to variances in internal friction, no 2 DC motors are exactly the same. This can leads to minor variations in travel speed. Check out this article for more information on how to synchronize multiple linear actuators.