How Exactly Does a Linear Actuator Work?
In contrast with a traditional permanent magnet motor, in a permanent magnet stepper motor with linear actuator, the motor shaft is replaced with a screw. The middle of the rotor is then altered so that it effectively behaves as a nut that works in concert with the screw. In this way, when the motion is activated the motor is prevented from turning, and that mechanical energy is transformed from rotational motion to linear motion. The increments of linear motion that correspond to each step are determined by dividing the number of motor steps into the screw pitch. What this means is that the longer the screw pitch, the faster the motor will advance but the lower the power. A shorter pitch means a slower motor with more available power.
