Linear Actuator Duty Cycle Explained

The "Invisible" Spec: Why Ignoring Duty Cycle Will Kill Your Linear Actuator

When most clients call us, they know exactly how much weight they need to push (Force) and how far it needs to move (Stroke).

But there is a third, "invisible" specification that is just as critical. If you ignore it, your new linear actuator might fail in less than a week.

That spec is Duty Cycle.

What Exactly is Duty Cycle?

In simple terms, Duty Cycle is the ratio of "On-Time" to "Off-Time." It tells you how long a linear actuator can run before it needs to stop and cool down.

Electric motors generate heat. If a linear actuator runs continuously without a break, that heat builds up, the grease thins out, and eventually, the motor brushes melt or the windings burn out. Duty cycle is the manufacturer’s way of saying: "Here is how much rest this unit needs to survive."

The Simple Math (How to Calculate It)

Duty cycle is expressed as a percentage of a specific time period (usually calculated over 10 or 20 minutes).

Let’s look at a standard 10% Duty Cycle (Common for DC Actuators):

• If the unit runs for 1 minute, it needs 9 minutes of rest.
• Total Cycle: 10 minutes.
• Calculation: 1 / (1 + 9) = 10%.

If you have a hatch that takes 30 seconds to open, and you open and close it immediately (1 minute total "work"), you need to let that motor sit for 9 minutes before moving it again.

Why Does This Matter for You?

Imagine you are building a conveyor belt system in a factory. You buy a standard 12V actuator to divert packages every 20 seconds.

• The Problem: That actuator is running almost constantly.
• The Result: A standard 10-25% duty cycle unit will overheat within an hour. You’ll be replacing it very often.

However, for a yacht engine hatch, a 10% duty cycle is perfect. You only open it once, do your work, and close it later. The motor has plenty of time to cool down.

The "Good, Better, Best" of Duty Cycles

Not all actuators are created equal. At Linear Actuators SA, we separate our range into three distinct performance classes to match your specific application.

1. The "Intermittent" Class (10% - 20% Duty Cycle)

Models: LINACT-10 and the LINACT-SMT Series.

These units are designed for applications where movement is occasional—perfect for compact spaces or specific marine tasks.

• The Rule: 2 minutes of continuous running requires 18 minutes of rest.
• Best For: Marine hatches and window openers.
• Risk: Ideal for "set and forget" adjustments, but not for constant motion.

2. The Powerful & Versatile Workhorse (25% Duty Cycle)

Model: LINACT-J Series.

The LINACT-J is our flagship DC actuator. Engineered with larger motors and superior heat dissipation, it works 2.5x harder than a standard unit, giving you that extra safety margin.

• The Rule: 5 minutes of continuous running requires only 15 minutes of rest.
• Best For: 4x4 roof lifts, solar tracking, agricultural machinery, and busy ventilation systems.
• Why 4x4s Love It: When leveling a camper roof, you often need to adjust it up and down multiple times to get the canvas tension perfect. The 25% duty cycle handles this without breaking a sweat.

3. The "Continuous" Industrial Class (Up to 100% Duty Cycle)

Brand: Servomech (Made in Italy).

When "rest" isn't an option, you need the industrial power of Servomech. As the authorized African representative, we supply high-performance electromechanical cylinders that can run non-stop.

• The Rule: Zero Rest Required. (Dependent on specific configuration).
• Why: By utilizing high-efficiency Ball Screws and AC Motors (1-Phase or 3-Phase), these units generate minimal heat.
• Best For: Factory automation lines, continuous pressing, and high-frequency production cycles.