low cost linear actuator

I'm looking for a low cost linear actuator (solenoid, not motor driven screw). Anyone got a clue as to where to find one? I have a PWM controller, need to control an engine. OH, 12VDC.

 

Give us some more information - What length stroke & what force?

 

Good points.
A 1" stroke would do quite well. Although I am controlling a carburetor vane/butterfly with it, there are air flow issues that require some force. Something in the neighborhood of 1 lb should work well. Also the shaft size should be 0.25" maximum. A "push" type is preferred.

 

A 1" stroke with any force may be hard to attain. Why is it that you do not want a linear servo or linear screw? Since it is a butterfly, why not a regular servo? Servos or linear screws (jack screws) are the usual solution. John

 

Having worked at Synchro-Start, I know that this type of actuator exists with the stroke and force needed. Our competitors as well as SSPI had both linear and rotary actuators capable of the job. Unfortunatetly SSPI is gone and the competitor's pricing is a bit out of range. A regular servo (my controller is PWM...DC) would be a bit large for a 13 HP OHV Briggs, The screw type lack the safety of immediate shudown in case of overspeed or power failure. I am locked into my controller which is PWM output, has multiple governing features controlled by a microprocessor.

 

This is a cheap cheap servo with more than 1 inch/lb of torque. It is less than 0.5" X 1". Is that still too big?

http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=EFLRS75

John

 

How about a electric door lock from a vehicle.They're available in several different types, go to a junkyard to find what suits your needs. Or...
http://www.allelectronics.com/index.php?page=search&search_query=solenoid

 

Here you go, check out the sealed tubular solenoids in the middle of the page, low cost too, most are under $30.00....

http://www.mcmaster.com/#linear-solenoids/=7ykdmv

Make sure to specify voltage for the DC ones when you order (They come in 12 and 24 volt DC versions)

B. Morse