Ball screw actuators are the devices, which converts energy into linear motion. This energy may come from an electromagnetic field, a pneumatic (air-powered) chamber or a hydraulic (fluid-filled) cylinder. Actuators are commonly found in electric bell assemblies, automotive starter systems, industrial air hammers and many other devices, which rely on a sudden burst of power to move a specific part.

Manual actuators:

The difficulty with using manual pinball plungers on other machines is that someone must constantly pull the spring back and release the energy by hand. An improved solenoid would provide its own means of pulling back on the pin and releasing it under control. This is the principle behind a simple electric solenoid. A metallic cylinder acts as the 'plunger'. A compression spring holds this metal pin partially out of an electromagnetic housing. When power from a battery or electric generator flows around the electromagnet, the metal pin or cylinder is magnetically drawn inside the housing, much like the player's hand pulls the plunger back in our pinball example. When the electric current stops, the pin is released and the compression spring sends it forward with significant force. The pin may strike the inside of a bell or forcefully eject a part from a molding machine. Many electronic machines contain numerous solenoids- the pinball machine depends heavily on solenoids triggered by the ball's contact with electrical circuits.

Other forms:

Other types of actuators depend on compressed air for their power. A single piston may be placed in an airtight cylinder connected to a source of highly compressed air. A strong internal spring may hold the piston in place until the air pressure has reached a predetermined level and then the piston is released. The compressed air is allowed to escape as the piston drives forward. Because the energy released by a solenoid can be concentrated, pneumatic solenoids are popular for heavy tools and machining applications, which require substantial power. A jackhammer is a good example of a pneumatic solenoid in action. The central piston is driven by air into the concrete, then the recoil of the hammer returns the piston to its original position.

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