Determining whether to use a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric actuation technology — or some hybrid of these technologies — remains a challenge for many design teams. Each actuation type has its pros and cons, and therefore understanding the attributes of each as well as the requirements of the application in which they’ll be used is vital to selecting the right option. To help provide some insight on this subject, today’s top article offers a comparison of pneumatic and electric actuators and when it may make sense to switch from a fluid power-based technology to an electric one.

Have a story to share on how you made the switch from one technology to another, or helped a customer do so? Want to share your thoughts on best practices for choosing an actuation technology or just have suggestions on other topics you’d like to see us cover? Reach out any time at [email protected] to let me know your thoughts!

Sara Jensen, Editor, Power & Motion