Servo Linear Underwater Actuators Overview and Applications

The range spans from 1,000 N (approximately 220 LBS) up to 77,500 N (approximately 7,000 LBS) across the product lineup. The Self-Compensated model offers up to 1,500 N, the Trunion 1000N scales up to 77,500 N, and the 60,000 N Force Actuator delivers 50,000 N for heavy-duty subsea applications requiring significant actuation force.

Position feedback varies by model. The Self-Compensated Actuator uses an integrated absolute 30-bit multi-turn encoder mounted on the output shaft, which retains position data between power cycles. The Trunion 1000N and 60,000 N Force Actuator use a rotary resolver mounted on the motor shaft for precise real-time position monitoring during operation.

The Self-Compensated Linear Actuator features integrated RS422 (RS485 full-duplex on 4 wires) and RS232 serial communication at 19,200 baud, enabling direct standalone position control. The Trunion 1000N and 60,000 N Force Actuator use external resolver feedback; control driver logic is not included and must be provided externally, allowing integration with customer-specified control systems.

The Trunion 1000N and 60,000 N Force Actuator are available in Stainless Steel 316 (SST 316) or Titanium construction — both materials offer excellent resistance to saltwater corrosion and biofouling. The Self-Compensated model uses oil pressure compensation to protect internal electronics and mechanical components from seawater ingress at depths up to 3,000 msw.

Power supply requirements vary by model. The Self-Compensated Actuator operates on 24 VDC. The Trunion 1000N supports 24 VDC, 48 VDC, and 230 VDC, offering flexibility for different subsea power architectures. The 60,000 N Force Actuator operates on 230 VDC, suited to high-power offshore and industrial deployments. Contact NV Mechanics Design for custom power configuration inquiries.

These actuators serve a broad range of subsea industries including offshore oil and gas (valve and pipeline actuation), marine research and oceanographic instrumentation, underwater robotics and ROV systems, water tank cleaning automation, and underwater infrastructure maintenance. Their scalable force output and extreme depth ratings make them applicable across commercial, scientific, and industrial subsea projects.