How Linear Actuators can be used for Renewable Energy

Efforts to generate renewable energy have led to exploration of numerous machines that ensure maximum energy production from the available renewable energy resources such as solar, wind and water. In order to tap continuous reliable energy from some of these sources, linear actuators are used to make adjustments of moving parts of the machine, to ensure that supply of energy is constant and reliable. Linear actuators are used in generation of renewable wind and solar energy by facilitating adjustment of moving systems for optimum tracking of energy.

Linear Actuators in Solar Energy

Linear actuators are mounted on solar panels to provide actuation of simple linear movements that create a steady motion of the solar panels to allow maximum trapping of sunbeams. Solar panels are mounted on movable planes whose movement is adjusted by motor or linear actuators integrated into solar trackers. Movement of the sun across the sky is followed by the trackers to ensure maximum trapping of the solar energy by photovoltaic cells. According to company provides linear actuators http://www.progressiveautomations.com/linear-actuators, motor actuators record significant angular deviation in solar tracking which leads to loss of significant amount of power. In comparison, linear actuators minimize angular deviation of solar tracking systems and enables steady continuous tracking of solar beams which enhances efficiency, minimizes misalignment and allows maximum solar energy generation throughout the day. In addition, linear actuators can be configured in terms of length of axial movement, loading capacity and incorporation of screws and gears, to meet the energy needs of the user. Linear actuators are also useful in conversion of direct current from photovoltaic cells to alternating current.

Linear Actuators in Wind Energy

Similar to their function in solar energy generation, linear actuators improve angular rotation in wind tracking systems to align the rotor turbines to the direction of the wind. Linear actuators adjust the rotor blades on the turbine hub which is mounted on the main vertical shaft of the windmill. When the wind blows from a certain direction at a given speed, the linear actuators make angular adjustment on the blades to improve rotary speed which maximizes energy production by the turbine. Linearly actuated movement constantly adjusts the angular inclination of the blades in relation to the wind movement and speed by a few degrees ensuring that energy production is maximized. One of the advantages of using linear actuators in wind turbines is their lightweight. This factor allows manufacturers to fix larger linear actuators on large-scale wind turbines to generate more energy. The second factor considered in application of linear actuators is the relatively easy task of controlling them through mechanical configuration at the hub. The blades can easily be adjusted by simple axial movements which constantly adjusts the blades for improved power output.

In both solar and wind energy production, linear actuators play the pivotal role of optimizing performance, enhanced accuracy and efficiency in energy output. Manufacturers look into making advanced linear actuators that require minimal maintenance, lubrication and replacement to allow smooth continuous renewable energy production. While most actuators are known for regulating motion of systems through linear movements, advanced linear actuators incorporate gearboxes and screws to actuate rotational motion, critical controlling movement of solar tracking systems and angular rotation of wind turbines for maximum energy production.