Bladder style inflatable actuators can be used to push pieces into place, move or reposition components, and/or actuate switching devices. Inflatable actuators work particularly well when a short stroke to apply a uniform, linear force is required. For more information on how inflatable actuators work along with detailed instructions on how to design using inflatable actuators, please visit Hydraulics and Pneumatics most recent article using the following link or download the full article in PDF format.

Web-Link: http://www.fpweb.com/200/IndZone/MaterialHandlin/Article/False/63494/IndZone-MaterialHandlin

PDF Download: "Soft Actuators Serve Hard Applications"

Some typical applications include:

• Inflatable actuators to open and close extremely large control valves. These bladders are custom, donut-shaped, axially expanding actuators that, because of their surface area, can generate a tremendous amount of force.
• Inflatable actuators that push sliding doors against a compression seal. These pneumatic actuators provide uniform force against a sliding door when locked and in position. The door is compressed against an O-ring manufactured of PFE (perfluoroelastomer), which is used when either harsh chemicals or low material outgassing is imperative, such as with certain types of semiconductor equipment.
• Inflatable actuators that lift a medical device tray into position for sterilization. This actuator provides an unformed force against the bottom of a tray, while the contents of the tray are being sterilized. Use of a pneumatic actuator removes any chance of possible deflection, which would occur with more traditional piston-style actuators.
• Inflatable actuators that push an HDPE seal into place. This actuator pushes an HDPE seal against a large, rotating shaft. HDPE's low co-efficient of friction allows the shaft to easily slide against the seal, while the supporting inflatable actuator compensates for slight movements in the shaft caused by temperature change or shaft eccentricity.