Linear Actuator -- Why is this not working?

Join the discussion
Ask a follow-up here, or get your own question answered by working scientists, mathematicians and engineers — people, not an autocomplete.
Real named experts · corrections over time · the nuance an AI answer skips
4 replies · 2K views
trickyrick0465
Messages
9
Reaction score
3
I'm using the actuator that says its good for 270lb
https://www.princessauto.com/en/detail/12v-dc-12-in-stroke-270-lb-linear-actuator/A-p8507840e
I'm using the 4rth pully system from here
Pulley diagram
I'm using it to lift 40 lbs
So from the diagram I figured that to lift 40 lbs I need an actuator to handle 160 lbs 4 times what I want to really lift
I'm finding that it struggles to even lift 40 lbs
What am I missing
 
Physics news on Phys.org
trickyrick0465 said:
I'm using the actuator that says its good for 270lb
https://www.princessauto.com/en/detail/12v-dc-12-in-stroke-270-lb-linear-actuator/A-p8507840e
I'm using the 4rth pully system from here
Pulley diagram
I'm using it to lift 40 lbs
So from the diagram I figured that to lift 40 lbs I need an actuator to handle 160 lbs 4 times what I want to really lift
I'm finding that it struggles to even lift 40 lbs
What am I missing
Welcome to PhysicsForums.

What are you using for the 12Vdc 5Amp power source? Could it be drooping?
 
berkeman
Thanks for pointing me in the right direction. The actuator couldn't draw enough current. Switched to a 12V deep cycle battery and works now. I've never used an Actuator when it lifts the weight it sounds like its under a lot of stress.
Thanks guys
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: berkeman and Lnewqban
Depending on your system, there can be a lot of friction in that pulley system. This does not seem to be taken into account in your work.