Electric Struts: Material Composition, Technical Standards, and Common Applications

Types of Electric Struts

An electric strut is an electromechanical actuator designed to produce controlled linear motion using electric power. These components are widely used in aerospace, automotive, robotics, and industrial automation due to their precision, reliability, and programmability. The choice of electric strut type depends on the application’s requirements for motion control, load support, space constraints, and environmental conditions.

This guide explores the five primary types of electric struts, detailing their functionality, advantages, limitations, and real-world applications to help engineers and designers make informed decisions.

Linear Electric Struts

Designed for precise, straight-line motion using electromechanical mechanisms such as ball screws or lead screws. These struts offer accurate position and force control, making them ideal for applications requiring high repeatability.

Advantages

• High positional accuracy
• Precise force control
• Compact and space-efficient design
• Smooth, consistent motion

Limitations

• Higher cost for precision models
• Limited stroke length in compact versions
• May require external feedback systems

Best for: Aerospace control surfaces, robotic arms, medical devices, and automated manufacturing systems

Flush Electric Struts

Engineered to integrate seamlessly within aircraft or vehicle structures, these low-profile struts retract flush with the surface when not in use, minimizing aerodynamic drag and maintaining a clean exterior profile.

Advantages

• Reduces aerodynamic drag
• Improves fuel efficiency and performance
• Ideal for tight space integration
• Enhances aesthetic and functional design

Limitations

• Complex installation and alignment
• Higher maintenance access difficulty
• Limited force output due to size constraints

Best for: Commercial and military aircraft, high-speed vehicles, and applications where aerodynamics are critical

Locking Electric Struts

Equipped with internal locking mechanisms that secure the strut in place once extended or positioned. This feature allows the strut to bear loads and maintain structural integrity without continuous power.

Advantages

• Secure load-bearing capability
• Energy-efficient (no power needed to hold position)
• Enhanced safety and stability
• Ideal for structural support applications

Limitations

• Slightly slower deployment due to locking mechanism
• Increased mechanical complexity
• Potential for lock mechanism wear over time

Best for: Foldable wings, adjustable air intakes, deployable platforms, and emergency support systems

Retractable Electric Struts

Designed for dynamic deployment and retraction during operation, these struts are built to withstand repeated cycles and high stress. They are essential in systems requiring temporary extension and stowage.

Advantages

• High cycle durability
• Reliable in critical systems
• Automated operation with precise control
• Protects mechanisms when stowed

Limitations

• Requires robust motor and gearing
• Higher power consumption during operation
• More complex maintenance requirements

Best for: Landing gear systems, retractable control surfaces, hatches, and sensor deployment mechanisms

Non-Locking Electric Struts

These struts provide motion without a built-in locking mechanism, meaning they cannot hold a position under load without continuous power or external support. They are optimized for frequent, dynamic movement rather than static support.

Advantages

• Lightweight and simpler design
• Fast response and repositioning
• Lower cost compared to locking variants
• Ideal for repetitive motion tasks

Limitations

• Cannot support static loads independently
• Requires constant power to maintain position
• Less suitable for safety-critical applications

Best for: Interior cabin components, non-structural hatches, adjustable panels, and light-duty automation

Type	Position Holding	Durability	Load Capacity	Primary Applications
Linear Electric Struts	High Precision	Very Good	Medium to High	Robotics, aerospace controls, automation
Flush Electric Struts	Moderate	Good	Low to Medium	Aerodynamic surfaces, aircraft design
Locking Electric Struts	Excellent (Mechanical Lock)	Very Good	High	Foldable wings, structural supports
Retractable Electric Struts	Good (Dynamic Use)	Excellent	High	Landing gear, deployable systems
Non-Locking Electric Struts	Poor (No Lock)	Good	Low	Cabin components, light actuators

Expert Tip: When selecting an electric strut, consider not only the motion requirements but also the environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, vibration) and whether fail-safe operation (e.g., self-locking) is necessary for safety-critical systems.

Industrial Applications of Electric Struts

Electric linear actuators, commonly referred to as electric struts, are transforming industrial automation and mechanical control systems. Unlike traditional hydraulic or pneumatic systems, electric struts offer precise motion control, reduced maintenance, and improved energy efficiency. Their versatility allows integration across a wide range of high-performance industries—from aerospace to robotics—where reliability, accuracy, and durability are paramount.

Key Industrial Sectors Utilizing Electric Struts

Aerospace

Electric struts play a vital role in modern aircraft systems, providing reliable and accurate actuation for critical flight surfaces. They are used to control movable components such as flaps, slats, and ailerons, enabling precise aerodynamic adjustments during takeoff, flight, and landing.

In addition, electric struts are integral to landing gear mechanisms, facilitating the secure deployment and retraction of wheels and support structures. Their fail-safe operation, combined with real-time feedback capabilities, ensures enhanced safety and performance under extreme conditions. The shift toward more-electric aircraft (MEA) architectures further increases demand for electric actuation due to reduced hydraulic complexity and improved system monitoring.

Automotive

In modern passenger and commercial vehicles, electric struts are increasingly replacing hydraulic and manual systems for convenience and performance. They enable power-assisted opening and closing of trunk lids, tailgates, hoods, and sunroofs, offering smooth, quiet, and programmable motion control.

High-end vehicles utilize electric struts for advanced features such as adjustable driver and passenger seats, retractable side mirrors, and adaptive suspension components. These applications benefit from the compact design, energy efficiency, and precise positioning of electric actuators. As automotive electrification accelerates, electric struts are becoming essential in smart vehicle ecosystems, supporting automated access and comfort functions.

Defense and Military

Military platforms rely on electric struts for mission-critical operations where precision, durability, and rapid response are essential. In military transport aircraft and armored vehicles, they control cargo doors, ramps, weapon hatches, and access panels with high reliability—even in harsh environments.

Electric actuation offers significant advantages over hydraulic systems, including reduced maintenance, lower risk of fluid leaks, and compatibility with digital command-and-control networks. Their use in unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and aerial drones further highlights their importance in next-generation defense technology, enabling autonomous deployment and reconfiguration of onboard systems.

Robotics and Automation

Electric struts are foundational components in industrial and service robotics, providing controlled linear motion for robotic arms, grippers, joints, and end-effectors. Their ability to deliver consistent force, speed, and positioning accuracy makes them ideal for automated assembly lines, packaging systems, and material handling equipment.

In humanoid and collaborative robots (cobots), electric struts simulate natural limb movements, enabling fluid interaction with humans and environments. Integrated sensors allow for real-time feedback, force control, and obstacle detection—key features for safe and intelligent automation. As Industry 4.0 advances, electric actuators are central to building flexible, scalable, and smart manufacturing solutions.

Commercial and Specialty Vehicles

Specialty trucks, emergency vehicles, and commercial fleets use electric struts to automate complex mechanical functions such as cab tilting, cargo cover deployment, and compartment access. These actuators provide reliable operation in heavy-duty applications while reducing physical strain on operators.

Vehicle designers leverage electric struts to create innovative motion control systems that improve ergonomics, safety, and efficiency. Compared to hydraulic alternatives, electric solutions offer easier installation, quieter operation, and seamless integration with electronic control units (ECUs). Their robustness ensures long-term performance in demanding conditions, from construction sites to long-haul transport.

Industrial Machinery

Across manufacturing and processing facilities, electric struts are embedded in large-scale machinery to automate tool positioning, safety guards, access panels, and component alignment. Their integration enhances operational efficiency by minimizing downtime associated with manual adjustments or mechanical failures.

Because electric struts are simpler to diagnose and replace than hydraulic systems—eliminating the need for pumps, hoses, and fluid reservoirs—they contribute to faster maintenance cycles and improved machine uptime. Their compatibility with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) enables synchronization with production workflows, supporting just-in-time manufacturing and predictive maintenance strategies.

Industry	Primary Applications	Key Benefits
Aerospace	Flight surface control, landing gear actuation	Precision, reliability, integration with avionics
Automotive	Trunk/tailgate automation, seat/mirror adjustment	Smooth operation, energy efficiency, smart integration
Defense & Military	Cargo ramps, hatch actuation, UGV systems	Durability, remote control, reduced maintenance
Robotics & Automation	Robotic arms, grippers, assembly systems	Position accuracy, programmability, safety
Commercial Vehicles	Cab tilt, cargo covers, access hatches	Ergonomics, durability, ease of integration
Industrial Machinery	Tool positioning, safety covers, automation	Low maintenance, PLC compatibility, reliability

Advantages Over Traditional Systems

Precision Control: Electric struts offer exact positioning and speed regulation, enabling fine-tuned motion in sensitive applications.

Energy Efficiency: They consume power only when moving, unlike hydraulic pumps that run continuously, reducing energy waste.

Low Maintenance: No hydraulic fluids or seals to replace; fewer moving parts result in longer service life.

Quiet Operation: Ideal for environments where noise reduction is important, such as medical or office settings.

Smart Integration: Compatible with IoT platforms, sensors, and control systems for real-time monitoring and automation.

Important: When selecting electric struts for industrial applications, consider load requirements, stroke length, speed, environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, moisture), and control interface compatibility. Using properly rated components ensures safety, longevity, and optimal performance. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for installation, wiring, and system integration to avoid premature failure or operational issues.

Product Specifications and Features of Electric Struts

Electric struts—also known as electric linear actuators—are advanced electromechanical devices that convert electrical energy into precise linear motion. They are widely used in automotive, aerospace, industrial automation, and consumer applications due to their reliability, efficiency, and controllability. Understanding their technical specifications and key features is essential for selecting the right model for a given application.

Technical Specifications

These core technical parameters define the performance envelope and operational limits of electric struts. Proper selection based on these specs ensures compatibility, safety, and optimal functionality in real-world applications.

Load Capacity

Definition: The maximum force an electric strut can exert or support, typically measured in Newtons (N) or pounds-force (lbf).

Importance: Determines whether the strut can handle the mechanical demands of the application. For example, lifting a heavy hatchback lid may require 500–800N, while industrial machinery might need actuators rated for several thousand Newtons.

Tip: Always include a safety margin (20–30%) above the expected load to prevent premature wear or failure.

Stroke Length

Definition: The total distance the actuator’s rod can extend from its retracted position, usually ranging from 2 inches (50mm) to over 24 inches (600mm).

Application Insight: Short strokes (2–6") are common in automotive trunks and hatches. Longer strokes (12–24") are used in adjustable workbenches, solar panel trackers, or aircraft control mechanisms.

Note: Custom stroke lengths are available for specialized applications requiring precise travel distances.

Voltage Rating

Standard Options: Most electric struts operate at 12V DC (common in vehicles) or 24V DC (used in industrial and commercial systems).

Compatibility: These voltages align with standard power supplies, including car batteries, solar systems, and low-voltage industrial circuits. Some high-performance models support 48V or AC inputs for heavy-duty use.

Benefit: Eliminates the need for complex power conversion systems in most mobile and embedded applications.

Response Time

Performance Metric: The time it takes for the strut to begin moving after receiving a signal—typically under 100 milliseconds—and the speed of extension/retraction (e.g., 5–50 mm/s).

Use Case: Fast response is critical in robotics, active suspension systems, and safety mechanisms where split-second actuation matters.

Advanced Option: Servo-controlled struts offer programmable acceleration and deceleration profiles for smooth, precise motion.

Temperature Range

Operating Range: Standard models function reliably between -20°C (-4°F) and +70°C (158°F), covering most indoor and outdoor environments.

Extreme Conditions: Sealed, thermally protected variants are available for arctic operations, desert climates, or near-engine compartments in vehicles.

Sealing Standard: Look for IP65 or higher ratings for dust and moisture resistance in harsh environments.

Key Features and Advantages

Electric struts outperform traditional hydraulic and pneumatic systems in many modern applications due to their intelligent design and integration capabilities. Below are the defining features that make them a preferred choice across industries.

Automated Operation

Powered by integrated electric motors, these struts enable fully automated motion control without manual effort or hydraulic pressure systems.

• Enables "hands-free" operation in vehicles (e.g., power liftgates, sunroofs)
• Can be integrated with sensors and microcontrollers for smart automation
• Eliminates need for pumps, valves, and fluid reservoirs

Real-World Example: In luxury SUVs, electric struts automatically open and close the rear gate with a button press or foot sensor.

Energy Efficiency

Operating on low-voltage DC power, electric struts consume energy only when moving, unlike hydraulic systems that maintain pressure continuously.

• Up to 70% more efficient than hydraulic counterparts
• Reduces strain on vehicle electrical systems and battery drain
• No energy lost to fluid friction or heat in hoses and pumps

Sustainability Benefit: Lower energy consumption contributes to reduced carbon footprint in electric and hybrid vehicles.

Compact Design

Electric struts integrate the motor, gearbox, and lead screw into a single sealed unit, resulting in a space-saving profile.

• Requires significantly less installation space than hydraulic systems (no pump, tank, or tubing)
• Ideal for modern vehicles, drones, and compact machinery where space is limited
• Lightweight construction reduces overall system mass

Design Advantage: Modular form factor allows for flexible mounting orientations and retrofitting into existing mechanisms.

Low Maintenance

With no fluids to leak and fewer moving parts, electric struts require minimal upkeep over their service life.

• No need for periodic fluid changes or seal replacements
• Resistant to contamination and corrosion (especially with stainless steel rods)
• Suitable for remote or sealed systems (e.g., underwater robotics, satellite mechanisms)

Cost Savings: Reduces downtime and maintenance labor, especially in commercial fleets and industrial equipment.

Precision Control

Advanced electric struts support position feedback via built-in potentiometers or Hall effect sensors, enabling closed-loop control.

• Accurate positioning within ±0.1mm in high-end models
• Programmable speed, force, and stopping points
• Compatible with CAN bus, PWM, or IoT-enabled control systems

Critical Use: Essential in aerospace (flight control surfaces), medical devices (adjustable beds), and automated manufacturing lines.

Professional Recommendation: When selecting an electric strut, always match the load, stroke, and speed requirements to your application. Prioritize models with overload protection, thermal cutoffs, and IP-rated sealing for durability. For smart systems, choose struts with feedback signals to enable position monitoring and integration with automation platforms.

Application Type	Recommended Load Range	Typical Stroke Length	Key Feature Priority
Automotive (trunk, liftgate)	400–800 N	6–12 inches	Compact design, quiet operation
Industrial Automation	1,000–3,000 N	12–24 inches	Precision control, durability
Aerospace (control surfaces)	500–2,000 N	4–10 inches	Fast response, reliability
Medical Equipment (adjustable beds)	200–600 N	8–16 inches	Smooth motion, low noise
Renewable Energy (solar trackers)	300–1,200 N	12–18 inches	Weather resistance, energy efficiency

Additional Considerations

• Feedback Integration: Models with position feedback allow for real-time monitoring and error correction in automated systems.
• Noise Level: High-quality struts operate quietly (<55 dB), making them suitable for consumer and medical applications.
• Duty Cycle: Check the recommended on/off cycle to prevent overheating during continuous use.
• Mounting Options: Spherical bearings, clevis mounts, and threaded ends offer flexibility in installation.
• Smart Connectivity: Modern struts support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or CAN communication for remote diagnostics and control.

Quality and Safety Considerations for Electric Struts

Electric struts are critical components in a wide range of applications—from automotive and aerospace to industrial automation and defense systems. Their reliability, durability, and safety are paramount due to the high-stakes environments in which they operate. Ensuring quality and safety in electric struts involves a comprehensive approach covering materials, design, testing, installation, and ongoing monitoring. This guide outlines the key considerations for selecting, installing, and maintaining electric struts to maximize performance and minimize risk.

Safety Warning: Electric struts operate under mechanical and electrical stress. Improper selection, installation, or maintenance can lead to equipment failure, system downtime, or personal injury. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and industry standards to ensure safe and reliable operation.

Key Quality and Safety Factors

• Material Quality and Structural Integrity

  High-performance electric struts must be constructed from premium-grade materials such as hardened steel or aerospace-grade aluminum billets. These materials provide exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, ensuring the strut maintains its structural integrity under dynamic and static loads. Superior materials resist deformation, fatigue, and wear over time, extending service life and reducing maintenance frequency.

  Corrosion resistance is equally critical, especially in outdoor, marine, or high-humidity environments. Stainless steel components, anodized finishes, or protective coatings prevent rust and degradation, preserving both mechanical performance and safety. Inferior materials may crack or warp under stress, leading to catastrophic failure in load-bearing applications.

• Environmental Sealing and Protection

  Electric struts are often exposed to harsh conditions, including moisture, dust, dirt, and chemical contaminants. High-quality units feature robust sealing mechanisms—such as IP65, IP67, or higher ingress protection ratings—that safeguard internal components like motors, gears, and electronics.

  Weatherproof enclosures, O-rings, and sealed bearings prevent the intrusion of foreign particles and liquids, ensuring consistent performance in demanding environments. This is especially vital in agricultural, construction, and offshore applications where exposure to the elements is unavoidable.

• Testing, Certification, and Compliance

  Reputable manufacturers subject electric struts to rigorous testing protocols aligned with international standards such as ISO, IEC, or MIL-STD. These include:

  • Vibration and shock testing to simulate real-world operational stresses
  • Thermal cycling to assess performance across extreme temperature ranges
  • Life cycle testing to validate longevity under repeated actuation
  • EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) testing to prevent interference with other systems

  Look for certification labels or documentation verifying compliance with industry-specific requirements—such as AS9100 for aerospace, ISO/TS 16949 for automotive, or MIL-DTL-901 for defense applications. Certified struts offer greater assurance of reliability and safety.

• Electrical Safety and Insulation

  Proper electrical insulation is essential to prevent short circuits, ground faults, and fire hazards. High-quality electric struts use insulated motor windings, dielectric coatings, and shielded wiring to isolate electrical components from conductive surfaces.

  Secure grounding connections help dissipate stray currents and reduce electromagnetic interference. Additionally, built-in overheat protection—such as thermal cut-off switches or embedded temperature sensors—automatically shuts down the motor when unsafe temperatures are detected, preventing damage and enhancing operator safety.

• Load and Stress Testing

  Electric struts must be rated and tested to handle the maximum expected loads in their intended applications. Under-sizing or overloading a strut can lead to premature wear, buckling, or sudden failure. Manufacturers typically specify dynamic and static load capacities, stroke length, speed, and duty cycle.

  Ensure the selected strut exceeds the operational requirements with a safety margin (typically 20–30%). Load testing should simulate real-world conditions, including side loads, eccentric forces, and repetitive cycling. Struts used in safety-critical systems should undergo fatigue analysis and stress modeling during design.

• Installation Guidelines and Mechanical Integration

  Even the highest-quality electric strut can fail if improperly installed. Always follow the manufacturer’s mounting instructions precisely, paying attention to alignment, pivot points, and fastener torque specifications.

  Improper installation can introduce binding, misalignment, or excessive lateral forces, leading to accelerated wear or mechanical breakdown. Use appropriate hardware and support structures, and ensure the strut operates within its designed angular and spatial constraints. When in doubt, consult an engineer or technical support representative.

• Monitoring, Diagnostics, and Preventive Maintenance

  For mission-critical or high-usage applications, implement continuous monitoring using integrated sensors. Modern electric struts often include feedback systems such as Hall effect sensors, encoders, or current monitors that provide real-time data on position, load, temperature, and motor performance.

  Diagnostic capabilities allow for early detection of anomalies—such as increased current draw, irregular movement, or overheating—enabling predictive maintenance before failure occurs. This not only improves safety but also reduces unplanned downtime and repair costs.

Safety Factor	Best Practices	Risks of Neglect	Recommended Actions
Material Quality	Use corrosion-resistant alloys and hardened components	Structural failure, rust, deformation	Inspect for wear; choose stainless steel or coated variants
Environmental Protection	Select IP67-rated or higher sealed units	Motor failure, gear damage, electrical shorts	Verify ingress protection; clean seals regularly
Compliance & Certification	Choose struts tested to ISO, MIL-STD, or industry standards	Non-compliance, liability, system failure	Request test reports and certification documents
Electrical Safety	Ensure proper insulation and grounding	Short circuits, fire hazards, equipment damage	Check wiring integrity; use surge protectors
Load Capacity	Size struts with 20–30% safety margin	Buckling, motor burnout, catastrophic failure	Calculate peak loads; avoid side-loading
Installation & Alignment	Follow manufacturer torque and alignment specs	Binding, premature wear, vibration	Use alignment tools; torque fasteners correctly
Monitoring & Maintenance	Implement sensor-based diagnostics	Unexpected failure, downtime, safety incidents	Schedule inspections; use smart struts with feedback

Expert Tip: When integrating electric struts into automated or safety-critical systems, consider using models with built-in redundancy or fail-safe mechanisms (e.g., manual override, spring return). This ensures controlled operation even during power loss or system faults.

Conclusion

Selecting and maintaining high-quality electric struts is essential for ensuring long-term reliability, operational safety, and system efficiency. Prioritize units made from durable materials, properly sealed, certified to industry standards, and equipped with electrical and thermal protection. Follow precise installation procedures and incorporate monitoring technologies to detect issues early. By adhering to these best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of failure and enhance the performance of your electromechanical systems.

When in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s technical documentation or seek guidance from a qualified engineer—especially for applications involving human safety or high-value equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Struts

Q1: What exactly are electric struts?

Electric struts—also known as electric linear actuators—are electromechanical devices designed to produce precise, controlled linear motion using electrical power. Unlike traditional hydraulic or pneumatic systems, electric struts convert electrical energy directly into mechanical force and movement through an integrated motor and lead screw mechanism.

These devices are widely used in applications requiring accurate positioning, smooth operation, and programmable control. Compared to hydraulic struts, which rely on pressurized fluid to generate motion, electric struts offer cleaner, quieter, and more energy-efficient performance. Their compact design and ease of integration make them ideal for modern automation and smart systems.

Q2: What are electric struts made of?

Electric struts are engineered for durability and performance under dynamic loads, consisting of several key components:

• Actuator Rod (Shaft): Typically machined from high-strength steel or lightweight aluminum alloys, the rod extends and retracts to deliver linear force. It is often coated with anti-corrosion materials like zinc or chrome for enhanced longevity.
• Electric Motor: Usually a DC or stepper motor that provides the rotational force needed to drive the internal mechanism. Motors are selected based on required speed, torque, and duty cycle.
• Lead Screw or Ball Screw: Converts the motor’s rotational motion into linear movement. Ball screws offer higher efficiency and load capacity, while lead screws are quieter and more cost-effective.
• Strut Housing (Body): Constructed from aluminum, steel, or composite materials, the housing protects internal components and resists environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and vibration.
• Internal Gearing & Bearings: Support smooth motion and distribute mechanical stress evenly across the system.
• Seals & Wipers: Prevent contamination from dirt and debris, especially in industrial or outdoor environments.

Together, these materials and components ensure reliable operation, resistance to wear, and long service life—even in demanding conditions.

Q3: How do electric struts work?

Electric struts operate by transforming electrical energy into precise linear motion through a series of mechanical components:

1. When powered, the electric motor rotates a lead screw or ball screw inside the strut body.
2. This rotation drives a nut attached to the actuator rod, causing it to move linearly—either extending outward or retracting inward.
3. The direction of motion depends on the polarity of the current supplied to the motor (for DC systems) or control signals (in automated setups).
4. Limit switches or position sensors can be integrated to stop the rod at predefined points, enabling accurate control over stroke length and positioning.

Most electric struts operate on standard voltages such as 12V or 24V DC, making them compatible with common power sources found in automotive, marine, aerospace, and industrial control systems. Advanced models may include features like variable speed control, feedback systems (e.g., potentiometers or encoders), and communication protocols (such as CAN bus) for integration into smart automation networks.

Q4: What are the differences between hydraulic and electric struts?

While both hydraulic and electric struts provide linear motion, they differ significantly in design, performance, and application suitability. Here’s a detailed comparison:

Feature	Electric Struts	Hydraulic Struts
Power Source	Electrical energy (batteries, power supplies)	Pressurized hydraulic fluid (oil-based)
Energy Efficiency	High—only consume power when moving	Lower—pumps run continuously; energy lost in heat
Maintenance Needs	Moderate—require periodic inspection of motors and gears	High—fluid leaks, seal wear, pump maintenance
Environmental Impact	Low—no fluids, minimal emissions	Higher—risk of oil leaks and contamination
Installation & Integration	Simple—plug-and-play with wiring; easy to control digitally	Complex—requires pumps, hoses, valves, and reservoirs
Size & Weight	Compact and lightweight	Bulkier due to auxiliary components
Control Precision	High—supports fine positioning and programmable motion	Limited—less precise without advanced servo systems
Noise Level	Quiet operation	Louder due to pump and fluid flow

In summary, electric struts are preferred in applications where cleanliness, precision, and ease of integration are priorities. Hydraulic systems still dominate in scenarios requiring extremely high force output, such as heavy construction equipment, though they come with greater complexity and maintenance demands.

Q5: What are common industrial applications of electric struts?

Electric struts are versatile components used across a wide range of industries due to their reliability, controllability, and adaptability. Key applications include:

• Aerospace: Used in aircraft for automated control of landing gear deployment, wing flaps, cargo doors, and adjustable seating mechanisms. Their precision and fail-safe operation are critical in aviation safety.
• Automotive & Electric Vehicles (EVs): Enable hands-free operation of trunk lids, liftgates, charging port covers, and adjustable pedals or seats. In EVs, they support lightweight, energy-efficient automation.
• Defense & Military: Integrated into armored vehicles, drones, and radar systems for remote actuation of hatches, weapon mounts, and surveillance equipment.
• Robotics & Automation: Provide motion in robotic arms, grippers, and linear stages. They enable precise, repeatable movements essential for assembly lines, packaging, and material handling.
• Manufacturing & Industrial Machinery: Used to position tools, open/close machine guards, adjust conveyor heights, and automate assembly processes. Their compatibility with PLCs and sensors makes them ideal for Industry 4.0 environments.
• Medical Equipment: Found in hospital beds, surgical tables, and diagnostic devices where smooth, quiet, and sterile operation is required.
• Renewable Energy: Employed in solar tracking systems to tilt panels for optimal sun exposure, improving energy efficiency.

As industries continue to adopt smart, connected systems, the demand for electric struts is growing rapidly. Their ability to be controlled remotely, monitored in real-time, and integrated with IoT platforms positions them as a cornerstone of modern electromechanical design.