How Do I Read and Interpret a PA Actuator Datasheet?
PA datasheets contain everything you need to select, wire, and size an actuator correctly. This guide walks through each specification field — what it means, what units to expect, and how to use it in your design decisions.
Force Specifications
| Spec Label | What It Means | How to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic Load (push / pull) | Maximum force the actuator can exert while moving | Your application load must not exceed this value during motion. Use the PA Force Calculator to account for angle and mechanism geometry. |
| Static Load | Maximum force the actuator can hold stationary | Typically 1.5–2× dynamic load. Your hold load must be below this value to prevent backdriving. |
| Side Load | Usually listed as zero or N/A | Actuators are not rated for lateral loads. Any non-zero side load reduces lifespan — use pivot mounts. |
Speed and Stroke
| Spec Label | What It Means | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Speed (no load) | Rod velocity with zero force applied, at rated voltage | Real-world speed under load will be lower — typically 40–70% of no-load speed at rated dynamic load |
| Speed (full load) | Rod velocity at rated dynamic load | Listed on some datasheets; more useful than no-load speed for application timing calculations |
| Stroke | Total travel distance from fully retracted to fully extended | Order code typically includes stroke in inches (e.g., PA-14-12-6 = 6" stroke) |
| Retracted / Extended Length | Overall actuator body length at each extreme | Critical for mechanical fit — ensure your mounting envelope accommodates both values |
Electrical Specifications
| Spec Label | What It Means | How to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| Input Voltage | Rated operating voltage (e.g., 12 V DC, 24 V DC) | Your power supply must match this exactly. Operating outside ±10% degrades performance and life. |
| Current (no load) | Current draw when moving freely with no applied force | Use for idle current estimation; not a safety-critical spec |
| Current (full load) | Current draw at rated dynamic load | Use this to size your power supply and inline fuse. Add 25% safety margin. |
| Stall Current | Current drawn when motor is held at zero speed | Size your fuse and motor driver to handle stall current if internal limit switches are not used |
| Duty Cycle | Percentage of time the actuator can be active continuously | E.g., 25% duty cycle = 5 min on, 15 min off per 20-min period. Exceeding this causes thermal cutout. |
IP Rating
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating is a two-digit code: the first digit is solid particle protection (0–6), the second is liquid protection (0–8). Key PA ratings:
1. IP54
Dust protected + splash
Protected against dust ingress and water splashing from any direction. Suitable for light outdoor use. Most standard PA models.
2. IP66
Dust tight + high pressure
No dust ingress; protected against powerful water jets. Suitable for wash-down environments.
3. IP68M
Submersible (marine grade)
Continuous submersion rated. PA-10 is PA's IP68M marine actuator, designed for underwater applications.
Decoding the Order Code
PA order codes follow the format: MODEL – VOLTAGE – STROKE. For example, PA-14-12-6 = PA-14 model, 12 V, 6" stroke. Variants may add suffixes for options: PA-14P = potentiometer feedback; PA-04-HS = Hall effect sensor. Always verify the full order code matches your application requirements before purchasing.