How to Choose the Right 24V Linear Actuator: Force, Stroke & IP Rating Explained

Selecting the right 24 volt dc linear actuator is not simply about choosing a voltage. The correct actuator must match your required force, stroke length, operating environment, duty cycle, and protection level. An actuator that is undersized may fail prematurely, while an oversized model can increase costs unnecessarily and reduce efficiency.

For most industrial, agricultural, automation, and mobile equipment applications, the best choice is a 24V actuator that provides sufficient force with a 20–30% safety margin, an appropriate stroke length for the motion required, and an IP rating suited to the working environment.

This guide explains the key specifications buyers should evaluate before purchasing a 24V linear actuator.

Why Choose a 24V Linear Actuator?

Compared with 12V systems, a 24 volt dc linear actuator offers several advantages:

• Lower current draw

• Reduced voltage drop over long cable runs

• Improved efficiency

• Better suitability for industrial automation

• Greater compatibility with PLC control systems

• Enhanced reliability in continuous-duty applications

As a result, 24V actuators are commonly found in:

• Industrial machinery

• Agricultural equipment

• Medical devices

• Solar tracking systems

• Automated gates

• Adjustable workstations

• Mobile vehicles and trucks

Understanding the Three Most Important Specifications

When evaluating a linear actuator, three specifications determine whether it will work properly:

1. Force

2. Stroke Length

3. IP Rating

Let's examine each in detail.

How Much Force Do You Need?

Force is usually measured in:

• Newtons (N)

• Kilonewtons (kN)

• Pounds-force (lbs)

The actuator must generate enough thrust or pull force to move the load reliably.

Typical Force Ranges

Calculate Required Force Correctly

Many buyers underestimate force requirements.

A good engineering practice is:

Required Force = Actual Load × Safety Factor

Recommended safety factor:

• Light duty: 1.2×

• Industrial duty: 1.5×

• Heavy shock loads: 2× or higher

Example

Load weight:

• 100kg

Approximate force:

• 100kg × 9.81 = 981N

With a 1.5 safety factor:

• 981 × 1.5 = 1472N

Recommended actuator:

• 1500N–2000N

Choosing the Correct Stroke Length

Stroke length refers to how far the actuator rod travels.

Common stroke lengths include:

Common Stroke Selection Mistakes

Choosing a Longer Stroke Than Necessary

Longer strokes often result in:

• Lower speed

• Larger installation space

• Higher cost

Ignoring Mounting Geometry

The required actuator stroke depends on linkage design.

For hinged applications:

• Hatch covers

• Access doors

• Dump bodies

The actuator travel may only need 30–50% of the actual opening distance.

Engineering calculations should always consider mounting angles.

Understanding IP Ratings

Many actuator failures occur because environmental protection requirements were overlooked.

The IP rating indicates protection against:

• Dust

• Water

• Moisture

• Outdoor exposure

Common IP Ratings Explained

Which IP Rating Should You Choose?

Indoor Automation

Recommended:

• IP54

• IP65

Applications:

• Workstations

• Medical equipment

• Furniture

Outdoor Equipment

Recommended:

• IP66

• IP67

Applications:

• Solar tracking

• Agriculture

• Outdoor machinery

Marine Environments

Recommended:

• IP67 or higher

Additional considerations:

• Stainless steel components

• Corrosion-resistant housing

• UV-resistant seals

Speed vs Force: Understanding the Trade-Off

One of the most misunderstood actuator characteristics is the relationship between speed and force.

Generally:

• Higher force = lower speed

• Higher speed = lower force

This occurs because gear reduction increases force but reduces travel speed.

Duty Cycle Matters More Than Most Buyers Realize

Duty cycle determines how long the actuator can operate before cooling is required.

Typical ratings:

Applications Requiring Higher Duty Cycles

• Factory automation

• Conveyor systems

• Packaging equipment

• Solar tracking systems

• Medical equipment

Selecting an actuator with an insufficient duty cycle can dramatically shorten motor life.

Which Motor Type Should You Choose?

Brushed DC Motors

Advantages:

• Lower cost

• Simple control

Disadvantages:

• Brush wear

• More maintenance

Brushless DC Motors

Advantages:

• Longer lifespan

• Higher efficiency

• Lower maintenance

Disadvantages:

• Higher upfront cost

For industrial applications, brushless 24V actuators often provide the lowest total ownership cost.

Typical 24V Linear Actuator Applications

Industrial Automation

Used for:

• Positioning systems

• Material handling

• Production machinery

Benefits:

• Reliable control

• PLC compatibility

• Reduced maintenance

Agricultural Equipment

Used for:

• Seeder adjustments

• Sprayer positioning

• Harvesting systems

Benefits:

• High force output

• Outdoor durability

• Low hydraulic maintenance

Solar Tracking Systems

Used for:

• Single-axis trackers

• Dual-axis trackers

Benefits:

• Accurate positioning

• Energy efficiency

• Remote operation

Medical Equipment

Used for:

• Patient lifts

• Hospital beds

• Rehabilitation devices

Benefits:

• Quiet operation

• Smooth movement

• High safety standards

Questions to Ask Before Buying

Before purchasing a 24 volt dc linear actuator, ask the following:

What load must be moved?

Determine actual force requirements.

How far must it travel?

Specify exact stroke length.

Indoor or outdoor use?

Choose the correct IP rating.

How frequently will it operate?

Evaluate duty cycle requirements.

What speed is acceptable?

Balance force and speed.

What control system is being used?

Verify compatibility with:

• PLC

• Remote control

• Limit switches

• Position feedback systems

Cost Factors That Affect Pricing

Several factors influence actuator cost:

• Force capacity

• Stroke length

• IP rating

• Feedback sensors

• Duty cycle

• Motor type

• Material construction

Higher-quality actuators typically provide longer service life and lower maintenance costs, making them more economical over the long term.

Final Recommendations

Choosing the right 24 volt dc linear actuator requires balancing force, stroke length, environmental protection, speed, and duty cycle. Rather than focusing solely on voltage or price, buyers should evaluate the complete operating requirements of the application.

For industrial automation, agriculture, solar tracking, and heavy-duty equipment, a properly sized 24V actuator can provide years of reliable service while reducing maintenance costs and improving operational efficiency.

The most successful actuator projects begin with accurate load calculations, realistic environmental assessments, and selecting an actuator that includes a suitable safety margin for long-term performance.

FAQ

Is a 24V actuator better than a 12V actuator?

For industrial and commercial applications, yes. A 24V system typically offers higher efficiency, lower current draw, and better performance over long cable distances.

What IP rating is best for outdoor use?

IP66 or IP67 is generally recommended for outdoor environments exposed to rain, dust, and washing.

How much force should I add as a safety margin?

Most industrial applications should include at least a 20–50% safety margin above the calculated load.

Can a 24V linear actuator run continuously?

Only actuators specifically designed for continuous duty can operate non-stop. Most standard actuators have duty cycle limitations.

How long does a 24V linear actuator typically last?

High-quality actuators can operate for thousands of cycles or many years when properly sized and maintained.