Thomson has available a new Guide to Linear Actuators for Off-Highway Vehicles. The guide provides an educational overview on the benefits of replacing hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders and automating other vehicle functions with robust electric linear actuators. Thomson electric linear actuators are powerful enough to handle dynamic loads up to 9000 N (2000 lbf.), while delivering significant construction vehicle benefits such as automatically controlling engine speed, remotely operating safety locks, remotely lifting the hood or maintenance access panels, and remotely controlling spool valves.

“Off-highway vehicle manufacturers are taking a long, hard look at the way they use motion control systems in their equipment.  Once dominated by hydraulic systems, construction equipment is increasingly equipped with electric actuators that automate a large number of tasks,” says Rob Gallagher, Thomson Marketing Communications Manager, Global.  “Electric linear actuators are easier to install, integrate with modern computer based control systems and are smaller, lighter and cleaner than hydraulic systems--all attributes that brighten the bottom line.”

Design engineers responsible for building next generation construction vehicles can reduce design, inventory, installation and operating costs, while increasing operator safety and productivity, by leveraging electromechanical actuators for throttle control, quick attachment of external devices, hood lift, cab-tilt and spool valve control operations. This guide provides a framework to help them better understand the tangible benefits that can be achieved converting to electric linear actuators, and is a helpful starting point to navigate the available actuator technology options.