Low power linear actuator for direct drive electrohydraulic valves

This paper presents a bi-directional permanent-magnet linear actuator for directly driving electrohydraulic valves with low power consumption. Its static and dynamic performances were analyzed using the 2D finite element method, taking into account the nonlinear characterization and the eddy current loss of the magnetic material. The experiment and simulation results agree well and show that the prototype actuator can produce a force of ±100 N with the maximum power being 7 W and has linear characteristics with a positive magnetic stiffness within a stroke of ±1 mm. Its non-linearity is less than 1.5% and the hysteresis less than 1.5%. The actuator’s frequency response (−3 dB) of the displacement reaches about 15 Hz, and the most significant factor affecting the dynamic performance is identified as the eddy current loss of the magnetic material.