NTS1 Core Features
- 12 V
- max. 1.2 A
- Stroke 100–600 mm
- up to 450 N
- up to 5 mm/s
- IP55
- Efficient linear actuator for 12 V systems
- High efficiency keeps current consumption low. Ideal for battery-powered, mobile, or solar applications with long runtimes.
- Flexibly adjustable stroke up to 600 mm
- Stroke length is continuously adjustable. Seven fixed profile lengths are available to simplify project planning.
- Fast actuator with high force
- Up to 450 newtons of thrust and a maximum speed of 5 millimeters per second.
- Rugged housing with IP55 protection
- An anodized aluminum profile provides reliable protection against dust and water jets. The actuator is maintenance-free and designed for long service life.
- With load cut-off and limit switches
- Integrated protective functions are standard. They simplify integration into common control systems and protect against overload.
- Made in Germany
- Manufactured at our site in Germany. In-house production ensures flexibility and availability.
12 V actuators compared with higher voltages
Quick takeaway
12 V actuators are safe and easy to supply in mobile environments. They are ideal where batteries, solar systems, or on-board power are available.
For long cable runs or high forces, higher voltages are often better. Lower current reduces losses and simplifies wiring.
Decision aid
Choose 12 V when
- a 12 V source is available. Examples include vehicles, RVs, or batteries.
- cables remain short and power is moderate.
- off-grid operation with a battery or solar module is desired.
- safety is a priority and moving parts may be touched.
Consider 24 V or 230 V when
- power and duty cycle increase and current should remain low.
- cable lengths grow and voltage drop becomes noticeable.
- multiple actuators are supplied centrally and controlled efficiently.
Advantages
- Safety: 12 V is considered extra-low voltage, which reduces risk around accessible mechanisms.
- Compatibility and mobility: 12 V is common in vehicles, RVs, and batteries. Actuators can run directly from batteries, solar systems, or accumulators.
- Battery operation: Many systems use a 12 V nominal voltage. Off-grid applications work without a mains connection.
- Control and integration: 12 V can be controlled easily using relays, H-bridges, and PWM. This suits on-board power systems, microcontrollers, and stand-alone setups.
Disadvantages
- Higher currents: For the same power, current is higher at 12 V than at 24 V or 230 V. Larger wire gauges and more powerful power supplies are often required.
- Losses over distance: Longer cables increase voltage drop and reduce efficiency.
- Limited power: Higher voltages often have an advantage for large forces or high dynamics.
Technical check: duty cycle and peak currents
Linear actuators draw more current at startup and under stall. Plan headroom for the power supply and choose a suitable fuse.
Duty cycle: the NTS1 is 50%. A value of 50 % means 60 s of operation should be followed by 60 s of pause.
In practice: short scenarios
RV roof vent 12 V fits
The roof vent should open electrically. The on-board power supply provides 12 V.
- Advantage: Supply directly from the on-board system. No converter needed.
- Important: Select proper fusing. Keep the cable short.
Skylight with solar and battery 12 V off-grid
A skylight should open and close automatically. Power is supplied by a battery and solar module.
- Advantage: No additional cabling. Operation remains independent of the mains.
- Important: Plan battery capacity for multiple cycles.
Lifting mechanism 12 V mobile
A mobile setup lifts material boxes. The system runs from a battery.
- Advantage: Operation without a mains connection. High mobility.
- Important: Plan power reserves for peak loads. Observe the duty cycle. Align the solar panel with the sun to increase charging power.
Technical data for the NTS1 linear actuator
| Voltage | 12 V DC ± 20%, max. 1.2 A |
| Force | 450 N |
| Stroke length | 100 – 600 mm |
| Options | Dry signal contacts |
| Housing | Aluminum profile, EV1 anodized; width 44 mm × height 71.4 mm × length (stroke length + 180 mm) |
| Weight | approx. 2 kg |
| Speed | max. 3 mm/s to 37 mm/s (variant-dependent) |
| Static holding force | 2000 N |
| Duty cycle | 50 % |
| Limit shutoff | OPEN/CLOSE via [unclear] microswitches |
| Load cut-off | Integrated |
| Temperature range | –20 °C to +60 °C |
| Certifications | IP55, CE, RoHS compliant |
NTS1 12 V performance data: force and speed
| Force | Max. speed | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 450 N | 5 mm/s | |
| 600 N | 13 mm/s | On request |
| 1500 N | 3 mm/s | On request |
Stroke lengths: 100, 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 mm (continuously adjustable).
Load cut-off
The integrated load cut-off monitors actuator current. If the permitted limit is exceeded, the NTS1 shuts down automatically to protect the motor, gearbox, and connected assemblies from damage.
Dry signal contacts
The signal contacts reliably monitor the end positions and report status to higher-level controllers.
Limit switch
The limit switch stops the NTS1 reliably at the end positions.
Options
Additional customizations such as special cable lengths, connector types, color adjustments, or combinations with customer-specific adaptations are available on request. We are happy to advise on special stroke lengths, OEM solutions, and project-specific accessories.
Installation
Installing the NTS1 12-V linear actuator is quick using the supplied U bracket. Use the complete operating instructions for installation of the NTS1.
- Screw on the U bracket and insert two T-slot nuts into the dovetail guide
- Fix the actuator in the bracket and attach the push tube to the clevis
- Make the connection via flying leads
- Run several cycles and test the limit switches
Installation must be performed by qualified personnel only.
Installation of the NTS1 linear actuator with U bracket, T-slot nut, and clevis
- NTS1 Datasheet DRFA (174 KB)
- NTS1 short Manual DRFA (122.66 KB)
- Betriebs- und Montageanleitung NTS1 DRFA (654.49 KB)
- Spindle actuator NTS1 3D CAD drawings STEP file (2.67 MB) :
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Manufacturer information:
Die Referenz für Antriebstechnik GmbH (DRFA)
D-79539 Lörrach, Wölblinstrasse 70
E-Mail: info@drfa.de