Using Heavy-Duty Waterproof Linear Actuators in Extreme Outdoor Conditions
I’m trying to figure out if heavily sealed linear actuators can hold up to constant exposure to rain and freezing temps. I’ve got a small outdoor lift setup at my cabin, and the cheap actuator I used last year froze solid after a week of wet snow. I’m thinking of upgrading to something designed specifically for rough weather, but I’ve never dealt with gear rated for that level of protection. Has anyone here actually used one in a place where the weather doesn’t take days off?
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Yeah, I’ve worked with a few on an automated greenhouse roof, and the weather up here gets nasty fast — long stretches of soaking rain, then sudden cold snaps. The cheaper units always got moisture inside eventually. The ones that survived were built with stronger seals and meant for full outdoor exposure. You might want to check out something like this: https://www.progressiveautomations.com/products/waterproof-linear-actuator-ip68m-for-outdoor-use waterproof linear actuator. We installed a pair of those a couple years back, and they’ve powered through storms, wet leaves, mud, all of it. Biggest tip: give them a little protection from ice buildup if you can, even a small cover makes a difference.