Access control systems in safety-critical environments demand components that perform reliably under stress. One of the most overlooked yet essential performance factors remains backdrivability. In other words, it is the ability of an actuator to predictably move freely while unenergized and appropriately respond to an external opposing force. In applications such as crash bars and panic hardware, this characteristic plays a vital role in ensuring secure closure and safe egress during emergencies. Actuators used in these systems must be validated for both backdrive and output force to meet stringent performance and safety requirements.
- What Is Backdrivability and Why It Matters
- Backdrivability determines whether an actuator can be driven backward by an external force. In panic hardware and crash bars, this ensures doors open when they should — and stay secure when they must. This spec is also critical where power interruptions could occur.
- Custom Testing at End-of-Line
- Every actuator can be tested for specific backdrive force per customer requirements. This is part of our quality assurance process for safety-critical applications.
- Applications in Real-World Settings
- Crash Bars & Panic Hardware: Rim exit devices, mortise locks, vertical rods.
- Hospitals: Delayed egress for patient safety.
- Data Centers: Controlled egress for sensitive environments.
- Technical Specs for Engineers
- Size 6 Single Stack Hybrid Stepper Linear Actuator
- Force Range: Up to 44 N (10 lbf)
- Stroke Length: Up to 150 mm
- 16mm x 16mm
- Anti-backlash nuts
- IP-rated sealing
- Seamless integration with customizable mounting and mechanical features
- Integrated limit switches
- Incremental or Absolute Encoder options
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