Selecting the right linear actuator for your project requires understanding two fundamental specifications: force capacity and stroke length. These parameters determine whether an actuator can physically accomplish your task, making them the primary selection criteria for any application. At FIRGELLI Automations, we've engineered over 50 distinct actuator models spanning force capacities from 4 pounds to 2,200 pounds and stroke lengths from 1 inch to 60 inches—a range that addresses everything from precision electronics adjustment to heavy industrial lifting.
The FIRGELLI Force & Stroke Spectrum serves as your comprehensive reference tool, organizing our entire actuator catalog by these critical specifications. This systematic approach eliminates guesswork and accelerates the selection process, whether you're a hobbyist building your first automated project or an engineer specifying components for industrial equipment. Understanding this spectrum means understanding which actuator can deliver the mechanical performance your application demands.
This guide breaks down our actuator lineup by force ranges, explains the technical characteristics that distinguish each category, and provides practical guidance for matching actuator specifications to real-world requirements. By the end, you'll understand not just which actuator to choose, but why that choice makes engineering sense for your specific application.
Understanding Force and Stroke Specifications
Before exploring specific actuator models, it's essential to understand what force and stroke specifications actually mean in practical terms. Force capacity represents the maximum load an actuator can push or pull, typically measured in pounds or Newtons. This rating assumes optimal mounting geometry—force perpendicular to the actuator rod—and decreases with angular mounting or side loading. An actuator rated for 200 pounds doesn't necessarily move a 200-pound object; factors like friction, incline angle, and mechanical advantage through linkages all affect real-world performance.
Stroke length defines the total distance the actuator rod extends from fully retracted to fully extended position. A 12-inch stroke actuator moves its load exactly 12 inches, though the actual movement of your application component may differ depending on mounting geometry and linkage ratios. Stroke selection must account for the full range of motion required, plus safety margins to prevent overtravel.
The relationship between these specifications isn't arbitrary. Generally, higher force capacities require more robust internal components—larger motors, stronger gears, heavier-duty lead screws or ball screws—which influences actuator size, weight, and speed. An actuator capable of 1,000 pounds of force will inevitably be larger and slower than a 50-pound unit with the same stroke length. This fundamental trade-off between force, speed, and size shapes actuator selection for every application.
Ultra-Light Precision Actuators: 0-50 lbs Force Range
The lightest force category encompasses applications requiring delicate positioning and compact form factors. These micro linear actuators excel in electronics enclosures, small robotics, ventilation control, and any application where space constraints or minimal force requirements dominate design considerations.
Micro Pen Actuators (4-22 lbs, 1-4" stroke)
Our smallest actuators deliver 4 to 22 pounds of force across stroke lengths from 1 to 4 inches. These pen-sized units measure barely larger than a marker, making them ideal for extremely space-constrained applications. Common uses include electronic device adjustments, small vent positioning, compact camera positioning systems, and miniature robotics where every cubic inch matters. Despite their diminutive size, these actuators incorporate the same limit switch protection and precision manufacturing as larger models.
Silent Micro and Utility Actuators (8-35 lbs, 1-8" stroke)
The Silent Micro Linear Actuator (22 lbs, 1-8" stroke) and Micro Utility Actuator (8-35 lbs, 1-8" stroke) balance compact dimensions with increased force capacity. The Silent Micro series emphasizes quiet operation through optimized gear design, making it particularly suitable for home automation applications in living spaces where noise matters—motorized cabinet doors, hidden storage compartments, or automated window treatments. The Micro Utility variant prioritizes affordability while maintaining reliable performance for DIY projects and prototyping.
Versatile Compact Models
This force range also includes the Mini Linear Actuators (15 lbs, 2-12" stroke), Bullet Series 23 Cal (26 lbs, 1-12" stroke), Mini Track Linear Actuators (35 lbs, 5-35" stroke), and High Speed Linear Actuators (22 lbs, 2-38" stroke). The extended stroke options—up to 38 inches in the High Speed series—enable applications requiring long travel distances with modest force requirements, such as linear camera sliders, automated curtain systems, or extended ventilation louvers.
Mid-Range Workhorse Actuators: 50-200 lbs Force Range
The 50-200 pound force category represents our most popular actuator range, addressing the majority of home automation, vehicle modification, and light industrial applications. These actuators balance force capacity, stroke options, and form factor to handle substantial loads while remaining manageable in size and cost.
C-Series Actuators (45-225 lbs, 1-30" stroke)
The C-Series represents one of our most versatile product lines, with force ratings from 45 to 225 pounds and stroke lengths spanning 1 to 30 inches. These actuators feature clean, compact housings with integrated limit switches and clevis mounting points at both ends. The C-Series excels in furniture automation—TV lifts, height-adjustable desks, motorized storage beds—and vehicle applications like camper hatch automation or truck topper lifts. IP54 ingress protection provides adequate dust and moisture resistance for indoor and protected outdoor installations.
Classic and Adjustable Rod Actuators
Classic Rod Linear Actuators (35-200 lbs, 1-24" stroke) and Adjustable Stroke Linear Actuators (35-200 lbs, 1-29" stroke) feature exposed rod designs that allow for alternative mounting configurations and visual confirmation of actuator position. The Adjustable Stroke series includes mechanical stops that enable field adjustment of maximum extension length—useful when precise stroke length must be determined after installation or when one actuator model must serve multiple similar applications with slight dimensional variations.
P-Series and Feedback Options
P-Series Linear Actuators (32-200 lbs, 1-30" stroke) prioritize cost-effectiveness while maintaining quality construction. For applications requiring position feedback, the Feedback Rod Linear Actuators (35-200 lbs, 2-12" stroke) and Optical Feedback Actuators (35-400 lbs, 1-30" stroke) integrate potentiometers or optical encoders. This feedback enables precise position control, synchronized multi-actuator movement, and programmable intermediate positions—critical capabilities for applications like solar panel tracking, automated medical equipment, or precision industrial positioning.
Specialized Mid-Range Models
The Sleek Rod Tubular Linear Actuators (40-150 lbs, 3-30" stroke) feature cylindrical housings for aesthetically demanding applications. Deluxe Rod Actuators (100 lbs, 3-36" stroke) offer extended stroke options in a premium housing. For higher force in this category, the Utility Linear Actuator (110-330 lbs, 2-12" stroke) provides substantial push/pull capability in a compact package, while Bullet Series Mini Actuators (20-110 lbs, 1-8" stroke) combine bullet-style aesthetics with versatile force options.
Heavy-Duty Actuators: 200-400 lbs Force Range
Applications demanding force capacities above 200 pounds typically involve larger mechanical systems—boat hatches, industrial equipment access panels, heavy vehicle modifications, or substantial architectural automation. Actuators in this range incorporate more robust internal components, higher-capacity motors, and reinforced housings to handle these demanding loads reliably.
Super Duty Actuators (220-450 lbs, 2-40" stroke)
Super Duty Actuators bridge the gap between mid-range and truly heavy-duty applications, offering force capacities from 220 to 450 pounds with stroke options up to 40 inches. These units feature reinforced tube construction, heavy-duty limit switches, and IP66 weatherproofing for outdoor and marine applications. Common installations include boat deck hatches, RV slide-out rooms, large overhead doors, and agricultural equipment automation. The 40-inch maximum stroke enables substantial linear movement in a single actuator, simplifying mechanical design and reducing component count.
Heavy Duty Rod Actuators (200-1000 lbs, 3-30" stroke)
With force ratings spanning 200 to 1,000 pounds, Heavy Duty Rod Actuators handle the broadest force range of any single product line. This versatility makes them suitable for everything from moderate industrial lifting (at 200-300 lbs ratings) to serious heavy equipment positioning (at 800-1,000 lbs ratings). The exposed rod design facilitates custom mounting solutions and visual position indication, while robust construction ensures long service life even under continuous-duty industrial applications.
Track and Specialized Designs
Heavy Duty Track Actuators (200-400 lbs, 10-60" stroke) utilize enclosed track designs that provide superior lateral load resistance compared to rod-style actuators. The 10 to 60-inch stroke range addresses applications requiring extended linear travel with heavy loads, such as large door automation, industrial conveyor positioning, or architectural kinetic installations. P-Series High Force Actuators (400 lbs, 2-30" stroke) deliver robust force capacity in a compact package optimized for cost-sensitive industrial applications.
The Bullet Series 35 Cal (22-270 lbs, 6-28" stroke) and Bullet Series 36 Cal (224 lbs, 6-24" stroke) combine distinctive cylindrical aesthetics with substantial force capacity, making them popular for visible installations where industrial appearance is undesirable. The Column Lift Actuator (400 lbs, 25-39" stroke) features a telescoping column design for height-adjustable applications like standing desks or medical examination tables.
Industrial-Strength Actuators: 400-2200 lbs Force Range
The highest force category encompasses industrial actuators designed for demanding commercial and industrial environments. These units handle loads that would destroy lesser actuators, featuring oversized motors, reinforced screws, heavy-gauge steel construction, and industrial-grade sealing.
Bullet Series 50 Cal Actuators (500-1124 lbs, 6-40" stroke)
The largest Bullet Series model delivers 500 to 1,124 pounds of force with stroke lengths from 6 to 40 inches. Despite the substantial force capacity, the sleek cylindrical design maintains visual appeal for applications where industrial aesthetics must be minimized. These actuators handle heavy machinery access panels, large-scale theatrical automation, industrial door systems, and heavy vehicle modifications requiring both high force and significant travel distance.
Power Max Heavy Duty Actuators (900-1500 lbs, 6-40" stroke)
Power Max actuators represent our premium heavy-duty line, engineered specifically for continuous industrial duty. Force ratings of 900 to 1,500 pounds enable lifting or positioning of substantial loads, while rugged construction ensures reliable operation in challenging environments. These actuators commonly appear in construction equipment, industrial presses, heavy-duty conveyors, and large-scale automated machinery where failure isn't acceptable and maintenance windows are limited.
Industrial Heavy Duty Linear Actuator (2,200 lbs, 10-35" stroke)
Our highest-force actuator delivers an impressive 2,200 pounds of push/pull force with stroke lengths from 10 to 35 inches. This exceptional force capacity handles applications beyond the reach of smaller actuators: industrial lifting systems, large-scale automation, construction equipment, and heavy manufacturing processes. The robust construction features oversized internal components, reinforced mounting points, and industrial-grade sealing for demanding environments. When your application absolutely requires maximum force in an electric linear actuator, this model represents the pinnacle of FIRGELLI engineering.
Critical Selection Factors Beyond Force and Stroke
While force capacity and stroke length serve as primary selection criteria, several additional specifications significantly impact actuator performance and application suitability.
Speed and Duty Cycle
Actuator speed typically decreases as force capacity increases, reflecting the mechanical reality that higher forces require greater gear reduction. A micro actuator might extend at 1-2 inches per second, while an industrial unit might move at 0.3-0.5 inches per second. Speed requirements depend on application timing—a TV lift might prioritize smooth, moderate speed, while an emergency hatch might require maximum speed.
Duty cycle defines the operational time percentage an actuator can sustain without overheating. A 20% duty cycle means the actuator can run for 2 minutes out of every 10 minutes. Intermittent applications like furniture automation easily meet this requirement, while continuous-duty applications like conveyor positioning require actuators rated for 100% duty cycle or upgraded motors and cooling.
Voltage and Power Requirements
Most FIRGELLI actuators operate on 12V DC power, matching automotive and renewable energy system standards. Some models offer 24V versions for industrial compatibility or when longer wire runs necessitate higher voltage to minimize current and voltage drop. Understanding available power supplies and ensuring adequate current capacity prevents performance issues and premature failure.
Environmental Protection
Ingress Protection (IP) ratings indicate dust and moisture resistance. IP54 ratings suit indoor and protected outdoor applications, while IP66 ratings withstand direct water spray and dust infiltration—essential for marine, outdoor, or washdown environments. Selecting appropriate environmental protection prevents corrosion, electrical failure, and premature wear.
Mounting and Integration
Actuators feature various mounting configurations—clevis ends, threaded rods, integrated flanges, or custom brackets. Understanding mounting geometry and required mounting brackets during selection prevents installation complications. Many applications benefit from control boxes or remote controls for convenient operation, particularly in furniture automation or vehicle modifications.
Practical Application Examples by Force Range
Understanding which force range suits specific applications helps translate theoretical specifications into practical selection decisions.
Applications for 0-50 lbs Actuators
Ultra-light actuators handle small vent positioning, compact electronics enclosures, camera positioning systems, small robotics, automated plant watering systems, miniature door locks, electronic device adjustment mechanisms, and small display element automation. These applications prioritize compact size and precise positioning over force capacity.
Applications for 50-200 lbs Actuators
Mid-range actuators dominate furniture automation (TV lifts, adjustable desks, Murphy beds), vehicle modifications (truck topper lifts, camper hatches, custom consoles), home automation (hidden storage, automated pet doors, window automation), and DIY robotics projects. This versatile force range handles most residential and light commercial applications.
Applications for 200-400 lbs Actuators
Heavy-duty actuators suit boat hatch automation, RV slide-outs, large overhead doors, agricultural equipment, theatrical rigging, solar panel positioning, large-scale furniture systems, and vehicle wheelchair lifts. These applications involve substantial loads requiring robust construction and weatherproofing.
Applications for 400-2200 lbs Actuators
Industrial-strength actuators handle construction equipment, industrial presses and positioning systems, heavy conveyor automation, large-scale architectural automation, industrial door systems, manufacturing equipment, heavy vehicle modifications, and commercial lifting platforms. These demanding applications justify the cost and size of maximum-capacity actuators.
Integration with Control Systems
Actuators require appropriate control systems for operation. Simple applications use basic rocker switches to reverse motor polarity for extension and retraction. More sophisticated systems employ control boxes with integrated relays, programmable controllers for intermediate positioning, or Arduino-based systems for custom automation logic.
Feedback actuators enable closed-loop position control, essential for applications requiring precise positioning or synchronized multi-actuator movement. The integrated potentiometer or optical encoder provides position information to the controller, enabling programmable stops, proportional control, and diagnostic monitoring.
For mobile or wireless control requirements, remote control systems eliminate hard-wired switches. These systems suit vehicle modifications, boat automation, or any application where control must be accessible from varying locations.
Maintenance and Reliability Considerations
FIRGELLI actuators employ self-lubricating designs requiring zero scheduled maintenance under normal operating conditions. The internal lead screw or ball screw mechanisms operate in sealed environments with long-life lubricants, while sealed bearings eliminate external grease points. This maintenance-free design reduces lifetime costs and suits applications where regular servicing is impractical.
Actuator lifespan depends on duty cycle, load factors, and environmental conditions. Units operating within rated specifications in controlled environments typically exceed 100,000 cycles. Industrial actuators handling maximum loads under continuous duty represent the most demanding scenario but still deliver reliable service for years with proper application.
When actuators fail prematurely, the cause usually involves application factors rather than manufacturing defects: operating beyond rated force capacity, excessive side loading from improper mounting geometry, inadequate power supply causing voltage drops and overheating, or environmental factors exceeding the actuator's IP rating. Proper selection and installation prevent the vast majority of field failures.
Engineering Resources and Technical Support
The FIRGELLI Force & Stroke Spectrum provides initial guidance, but complex applications often require deeper technical analysis. Our Linear Actuator Engineering Guide offers comprehensive information on force calculations, mounting geometry effects, duty cycle considerations, and control system design. Sections 5-6 specifically address actuator selection methodology, including how force and stroke interact with application geometry, duty cycle requirements, and mechanical advantage through linkages.
For applications involving extended travel with lateral guidance requirements, our slide rails and drawer slides complement actuators by providing smooth, stable linear motion support. Linear bearings and linear guides further enhance system precision when application requirements demand minimal play and high straightness accuracy.
Technical support assists with application-specific questions, helping translate project requirements into specific model selections. Whether you're designing a custom automation system or troubleshooting an existing installation, experienced support staff can provide guidance on actuator selection, control system design, and installation best practices.
Making Your Actuator Selection
The FIRGELLI Force & Stroke Spectrum transforms actuator selection from an overwhelming challenge into a systematic process. By organizing over 50 actuator models by their fundamental performance specifications, this resource enables rapid identification of suitable candidates for any application. From 4-pound micro actuators moving delicate mechanisms to 2,200-pound industrial actuators powering heavy equipment, FIRGELLI offers the breadth and depth of options to match your specific requirements.
Successful actuator selection extends beyond simply matching force and stroke specifications. Consider speed requirements, duty cycle demands, environmental conditions, control system integration, and mounting constraints. Review product specifications thoroughly, consult technical resources, and don't hesitate to contact support for application-specific guidance. The right actuator delivers reliable performance for years, while a poorly matched actuator causes frustration and potential failure.
Explore individual product pages for detailed specifications, dimensional drawings, performance curves, and CAD files for integration into your design. With comprehensive documentation and technical support backing every product, FIRGELLI provides not just actuators, but complete solutions for your automation challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate the force required for my application?
Force calculation depends on multiple factors: the weight of the object being moved, mounting geometry, mechanical advantage through linkages, and friction in the system. For horizontal movement, multiply the object weight by the coefficient of friction (typically 0.3-0.5 for sliding surfaces). For lifting applications, calculate the vertical component of force based on mounting angle—perpendicular mounting requires force equal to the lifted weight, while angled mounting requires more force. Add a 30-50% safety margin to account for friction, binding, and degradation over time. The Linear Actuator Engineering Guide provides detailed calculation methods for common scenarios, or contact technical support for complex applications.
What stroke length do I need?
Stroke length should equal or slightly exceed the required travel distance of your application. Measure the distance between fully closed and fully open positions, then add a small margin (typically 1/2 to 1 inch) to prevent the actuator from reaching hard mechanical limits during normal operation. If your mounting geometry involves angles or linkages, calculate the required actuator stroke using basic geometry—the actuator stroke may differ from the actual component travel distance. For adjustable or unknown requirements, consider models with adjustable stroke mechanical stops that enable field adjustment after installation.
Can I use multiple actuators together?
Multiple actuators can operate together for synchronized movement, but proper system design is essential. For basic synchronization, use identical actuator models with similar electrical loads and control them with a single switch—they'll naturally synchronize due to matching characteristics. For precise synchronization, specify feedback actuators with position sensors and implement closed-loop control that actively corrects any position discrepancies. When lifting with multiple actuators, ensure the load remains balanced and each actuator handles appropriate weight. Never exceed individual actuator force ratings by assuming multiple actuators simply add forces—mechanical advantage depends on mounting geometry and load distribution.
What is the difference between rod-style and track-style actuators?
Rod-style actuators feature an exposed telescoping rod that extends and retracts, offering compact retracted length and visual position indication. However, exposed rods are vulnerable to side loading and environmental contamination. Track-style actuators enclose the moving components within a protective housing with a sliding carriage, providing superior side load resistance, environmental protection, and smoother operation over long strokes. Track actuators are preferred for applications involving extended strokes, outdoor/marine environments, or significant side loads, while rod actuators suit space-constrained applications with minimal lateral forces.
How do I control actuator speed?
Actuator speed is primarily determined by the internal motor and gear ratio—higher force models use greater gear reduction and move slower. Within a given model, speed can be reduced by lowering the supply voltage below the rated voltage (e.g., 9V instead of 12V), though this also reduces available force. For precise speed control, implement Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control using an appropriate motor controller or Arduino-based system. Note that slowing actuators by reducing voltage or PWM may cause overheating in high-duty-cycle applications, as motors run less efficiently at reduced speeds. For applications requiring specific speeds, select an actuator model with appropriate base speed characteristics rather than attempting significant speed modification.
What voltage should I choose: 12V or 24V?
Most FIRGELLI actuators operate on 12V DC, matching automotive, marine, and solar system standards. Choose 12V when integrating with existing 12V systems or when using readily available 12V power supplies. Select 24V versions (where available) for industrial applications standardized on 24V control systems, when wire runs exceed 20-30 feet (higher voltage reduces current and voltage drop), or when operating multiple high-current actuators where reduced current simplifies wiring and switching. Both voltage options provide identical mechanical performance—voltage selection primarily affects electrical system compatibility and efficiency.
Do FIRGELLI actuators require regular maintenance?
FIRGELLI actuators feature sealed, self-lubricating designs requiring zero scheduled maintenance under normal operating conditions. Internal components operate in sealed environments with long-life lubricants, and sealed bearings eliminate external grease points. Simply ensure mounting bolts remain tight, electrical connections stay clean and secure, and the actuator operates within rated specifications. For outdoor or marine installations, periodically inspect for corrosion at mounting points and verify environmental seals remain intact. Actuators operating in extreme environments (heavy dust, constant spray, high temperature) benefit from occasional external cleaning, but internal components remain maintenance-free throughout their service life.
What is duty cycle and why does it matter?
Duty cycle defines the percentage of time an actuator can operate continuously without overheating. A 20% duty cycle means the actuator can run for 2 minutes, then must rest for 8 minutes before the next cycle. This limitation reflects heat buildup in the motor during operation—continuous running generates more heat than the actuator can dissipate, eventually causing thermal damage. Intermittent applications like furniture automation, vehicle hatches, or occasional positioning easily meet typical 20-25% duty cycle ratings. Continuous or frequent operation requires actuators rated for higher duty cycles (50% or 100%), upgraded motors with better cooling, or external cooling provisions. Operating beyond rated duty cycle causes overheating, reduced lifespan, and potential failure.
