Subsea Electric Linear Actuators

An actuator's primary purpose is to create controlled mechanical movement in response to a command signal. In underwater systems, actuators open and close valves, position robotic arms, and drive automated mechanisms without human intervention. Subsea electric actuators are essential where hydraulic systems are impractical or where precise, programmable motion control is required.

NV Mechanics Design offers two depth ratings: 3,000 msw (meters of seawater) for the self-compensated linear and rotary actuator series, and 6,000 meters for the heavy-duty Trunion and 60,000 N linear actuator models. All units use oil-pressure compensation to maintain seal integrity at rated depths.

Force output ranges from 1,000 N (220 LBS) up to 77,500 N (approximately 17,400 LBS) across the product lineup. The self-compensated linear actuator delivers up to 1,500 N, while the Trunion 1000N scales to 77,500 N and the 60,000 N model provides up to 50,000 N — covering light manipulation to heavy-duty valve and infrastructure actuation.

The self-compensated actuator series supports RS422 (RS485 full duplex on 4 wires) and RS232 serial communication at 19200 baud (8, N, 1). Parameters including status broadcast frequency and virtual limit switches are configurable and stored in onboard EEPROM. The heavy-duty Trunion and 60,000 N models use an external rotary resolver for position feedback.

Yes. The self-compensated linear and rotary actuators include a 30-bit absolute multi-turn encoder mounted on the output shaft. This encoder retains position data across power cycles, eliminating the need for homing routines after power loss — a critical feature for ROV and subsea valve control applications where restarting in a known state is essential.

Heavy-duty models such as the Trunion 1000N and the 60,000 N Linear Actuator are available in Stainless Steel 316 (SST 316) or Titanium, both selected for superior corrosion resistance in marine and offshore environments. The self-compensated series features oil-pressure compensation and sealed housings designed to withstand deep-sea pressures to 3,000 msw.