An actuator is an important mechanical device in many industries. It can convert electrical or fluid energy into mechanical motion to move or control various mechanisms or systems in the industry.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of actuators and their functions. We will also give you tips on choosing a suitable actuator for your company.
It is important to remember that actuators have advantages and disadvantages depending on their type. By knowing the correct kind of actuator, you can make the right choice to improve your company’s production efficiency and quantity.
Some Types of Actuators and Their Functions in the Industry
As an engineer in the industrial sector, you will find various kinds of actuators, such as electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, and others.
These devices are essential in various applications, ranging from automotive to manufacturing industries. Actuators will convert electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic energy into mechanical motion.
Many industrial systems rely on these devices to function correctly. Commonly used actuators include:

Electric Actuator
Electric actuators are widely used to convert electrical energy into mechanical motion. One key benefit of electric actuators is the precise control offered.
This particular equipment can generate a significant amount of force. Electric actuators are used in various fields, such as robotics, camera systems, and industrial automation equipment.
The disadvantages and advantages of electric actuators can be seen in the following table:
Advantages
- They have high accuracy and efficiency.
- The speed of electric actuators can be reliable.
- They have ease of adjustment.
Disadvantages
- The price is relatively expensive compared to pneumatic and hydraulic actuators.
- They are unsuitable for use in environments with explosion risks due to the danger of electrical short circuits.
- They require regular maintenance and inspection to prevent damage to electrical components.
- They have certain limitations regarding how much torque and power they can produce.

Hydraulic Actuator
Next is the hydraulic actuator. This driving device uses fluid as a medium to produce mechanical motion. This actuator is commonly used in applications requiring immense strength, such as heavy load lifting systems and hydraulic systems in general.
The advantage of hydraulic actuators is that they can produce large forces and can work in harsh environments such as high temperatures or high pressures.
The disadvantages and advantages of hydraulic actuators can be seen in the following table:
Advantages
- The hydraulic fluid acts as a coolant and lubricant.
- With a small size, the power or torque produced is immense.
- They have a high reaction speed.
- These can be operated either intermittently or continuously, depending on the requirement.
Disadvantages
- They require fluid as a driving medium.
- The procurement cost of the system is relatively higher than other systems.
- They have a risk of fire or explosion.
- The system tends to be dirty if not appropriately maintained.
- The damping power is relatively low.

Pneumatic Actuator
A pneumatic actuator uses pressurized air as a medium to produce mechanical motion. This device is often used in applications requiring high speed and durability.
Pneumatic actuators are preferred in various manufacturing industries due to their lightweight, easy operation, and quick response time. They are extensively used in lifting and conveyor systems.
The disadvantages and advantages of pneumatic actuators can be seen in the following table:
Advantages
- The system is simple and easy to operate
- Air is a safe and harmless driving medium.
- They can react quickly and can be performed either intermittently or continuously.
Disadvantages
- They require additional equipment, such as air compressors, to produce energy.
- The response speed is slower than that of electric actuators.
- They can make high noise and vibration.
- Maintenance is more complicated than electric actuators.
It’s worth mentioning that pneumatic hoses with high durability are needed for pneumatic systems to function effectively over an extended period.
Mechanical Actuator
The most straightforward actuator device is a mechanical actuator. This device uses physical mechanisms, such as gears, chains, belts, or levers, to produce mechanical motion.
Mechanical actuators are often used in applications that require enormous strength, such as heavy lifting systems. These devices can work without external power sources and be reliable for a long time.
The disadvantages and advantages of mechanical actuators can be seen in the following table:
Advantages
- The system is simple and easy to operate.
- They do not require electrical, air, or fluid power sources.
- There is no risk of fire and explosion because they do not use flammable fluids.
- They can produce ample torque and power.
Disadvantages
- They require regular maintenance and lubrication to prevent friction and wear.
- They have low accuracy and speed.
- They have limitations in terms of distance and angle of motion.
Different Types of Actuators in Terms of Their Motion
We have previously explained the actuators commonly used in the industrial sector. The explanation above is based on the media or driving power source, namely electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical.
If viewed from the output motion produced, there are two types of actuators as follows:
Linear Actuator
A linear actuator is a type of actuator that produces linear or straight-line motion. Various actuators, such as electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical, can produce linear motion. The selection of the driving power source depends on the application and performance requirements.
Linear actuators find their application in various fields. They are used in a wide range of applications, such as the following:
- Industrial automation
- Automatic doors
- Transportation
- CNC machines
- Manufacturing
- Robotics
- Valves
- Lifts
Advantages
- Linear actuators are more accessible to design and operate than rotary actuators.
- Linear actuators have high accuracy and precision in controlling position, speed, and force.
- Linear actuators can produce large forces with a relatively small size.
- Linear actuators do not require additional components, such as couplings, gears, or chains, to convert rotary motion into linear motion.
Disadvantages
- Linear actuators have limitations in motion range because they depend on the length of the rod or cylinder.
- Linear actuators are more prone to friction, wear, and contamination, reducing efficiency and service life.
- Linear actuators require more frequent maintenance and lubrication than rotary actuators.
- Linear actuators are more expensive and more complicated to obtain than rotary actuators.
Rotary Actuators
Then next is the rotary actuator, which produces rotational motion. Linear actuators are often used in various applications, such as the following:
- Automatic door mechanisms
- Machine/motor drive systems
- Industrial control systems
- Pumps
- And others
Like linear actuators, these devices obtain power from electricity, hydraulics, pneumatics, or mechanics, depending on the application and performance requirements.
Rotary actuators have the advantage of producing high torque and fast operating speeds.
Advantages
- Rotary actuators have high torque, which can move heavy loads.
- They have various applications and serve multiple industries, such as water treatment, oil and gas, and chemicals.
- Easy maintenance because they do not require additional components, such as rods, cylinders, or gears.
- Rotary actuators are easy to install because they can be mounted in various positions and directions.
- Rotary actuators are suitable for harsh environments because they resist dust, dirt, and humidity.
Disadvantages
- Rotary actuators have low accuracy and precision because it is difficult to control the angle and speed of rotation.
- They have low efficiency because of energy loss due to friction and damping.
- They have high noise because of the vibration and sound produced by the motor.

How Do You Choose the Proper Actuator?
After knowing the different types of actuators often used in the industry, you might wonder, “How do you choose the right actuator?”
To make it easier for you to determine the choice, here are some factors that need to be considered when choosing an actuator:
- Motion requirements: Consider the type of motion required, whether linear or rotary.
- Strength and torque: Determine the strength and torque required to move your mechanism or system.
- Speed and precision: Consider the speed and precision of motion required for your company’s application.
- Working environment: Consider the environmental conditions where the actuator will be used, such as temperature, humidity, and wear.
- Cost and energy efficiency: Consider the investment cost and energy efficiency of the actuator you choose.
Considering the factors above, you can choose the right type of actuator that suits your needs.
Thus, actuator selection should be based on the application’s specific needs and the factors explained above. To avoid making the wrong choice, consult your company’s experts first.
Our company provides various types of actuators and complete supporting devices to increase your company’s productivity.
PT Bawalaksana Central Industrial is the authorized distributor of Metal Work Italy, which offers a wide range of electric actuators for industrial automation systems. Metal Work is a pioneer in advanced pneumatic devices and components and a leader in cutting-edge automation technology.
As an authorized distributor, we can deliver comprehensive solutions for your company, ensuring the seamless implementation of modern, tech-integrated industrial automation systems.
If you have any questions regarding the appropriate utilization of electric actuators for your company, please feel free to speak with our team of Sales Engineers.

Romanta Pinrih Linuwih
Pneumatic Automation Systems Expert
This article was written in collaboration with Romanta Pinrih Linuwih, an expert in Pneumatic Automation Systems, to ensure accuracy and high quality.
REFERENCES
Dey, A. K. (2022, April 14). Actuators: Definition, Parts, Working, Types, Selection. What is Piping. Retrieved January 9, 2024, from https://whatispiping.com/actuators-working-types-selection/
What is a Pneumatic Actuator? | Types & Applications. (n.d.). RealPars. Retrieved January 9, 2024, from https://www.realpars.com/blog/pneumatic-actuator