While looking for a new actuator, I came across an article. It illustrates the difference between an acme and a ball screw actuator. The acme screw pictured, has a brass nut. I think maybe only Von Weise and Venture use a brass nut. All the others are plastic/nylon? I never understood exactly how a ball screw worked - just that it was superior to an acme. Now, I see that the ball screw slider thingie has steel balls pressed inside. The steel balls ride in the spiral grooves. Apparently this setup is more efficient and can take heavier loads.
http://machinedesign.com/motion-control/screw-drive-survival-and-actuator-life
Well, I learned something this morning! Maybe this will be of interest to others?
Here's another pic of a ball screw. (Not sure a satellite actuator has THAT many balls!)
Here's an acme screw: (No balls - essentially just a plain old sliding nut.)
I'm leaning towards the Venture Maxi (acme) actuator. Seems to have the most bang for the buck. It is supposed to be "easy to disassemble for maintenance and repair". I guess spare parts are available.
New Android based STB with 4 USB Ports.
http://machinedesign.com/motion-control/screw-drive-survival-and-actuator-life
Well, I learned something this morning! Maybe this will be of interest to others?
Here's another pic of a ball screw. (Not sure a satellite actuator has THAT many balls!)
Here's an acme screw: (No balls - essentially just a plain old sliding nut.)
I'm leaning towards the Venture Maxi (acme) actuator. Seems to have the most bang for the buck. It is supposed to be "easy to disassemble for maintenance and repair". I guess spare parts are available.
New Android based STB with 4 USB Ports.
