Linear induction actuator: design and performance

Tubular induction actuators with solid steel rotor and sleeve rotor with solid steel core have found application in areas where short linear movement is required, for example in opening and closing valves. This paper presents results of an investigation into the performance of a segmented rotor tubular induction actuator (TIA) and measurement of equivalent circuit parameters. Comparison of three basic types of rotors: (i) solid steel; (ii) copper or aluminium sleeve on solid steel core; and (iii) segmented rotor, shows that there are a number of significant advantages in using the segmented rotor construction over the other two. These are presented in the paper