Thermoactuator

Description

Thermoactuators, also known as wax motor actuators, are compact linear actuators that utilize the volumetric expansion property of wax to convert electrical energy into mechanical force. These actuators deliver powerful, silent, and smooth motion through their plunger mechanism. They are extensively used in the Home Appliances and HVAC sectors.
A thermoactuator features a simple design comprising several essential components. These include a wax motor, a flame-retardant housing, a plastic plunger, a return spring, and two tab terminals.
To learn more about thermoactuators, here is our informative blog post that covers the basics of this product.

Working Principle

The working principle of a thermoactuator is straightforward.
When energized, the PTC thermistor on the wax motor quickly heats up, causing wax inside the container to melt and transition from solid phase to liquid phase. The expansion of the wax volume pushes the plastic plunger outward, generating linear movement.
Conversely, when the heating stops, the wax cools down and returns to solid phase, gradually reducing in volume. With the assistance of a return spring, the plastic plunger returns to its initial position.