When selecting a linear actuator for your automation project, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right housing design: open, semi-closed, or built-in. Each structure offers different levels of protection, space efficiency and application suitability. This guide wil help you understand the dfferences and choose the best fit for your needs.

Open-Type Linear Actuator
Description: Open-type actuators have exposed ball screws and guide rails. They offer easy maintenance and customization.

Advantages:
1. Easy to inspect, clean, and maintain
2. Lightweight and cost-effective
3. Flexible structure for custom configurations

Limitations:
1. No protection from dust, oil, or debris
2. Requires clean operating environments

Ideal For:
1. Laboratory equipment
2. Research and testing platforms

Semi-Closed Linear Actuator
Description: Semi-closed actuators feature partial covers to protect internal components from dust and splashes, without fully sealing the unit.

Advantages:
1. Balanced protection and accessibility
2. More durable than open types
3. Supports medium- to high-load applications

Limitations:
1. Not fully sealed (not IP-rated)
2. May require occasional cleaning

Ideal For:
1. Automation assembly lines
2. Laser and pick-and-place systems
3. Packaging and labeling equipment

Built-In (Fully Enclosed) Linear Actuator
Description: Built-in actuators (also called fully enclosed) completely seal the motion mechanism within an aluminum or stel housing. Ideal for harsh environments.

Advantages:
1. Full protection against dust, oil, and coolant
2. High durability and long lifespan
3. Clean appearance and easy to install

Limitations:
1. Less accessible for maintenance
2. Typically larger and more expensive

Ideal For:
1. CNC machines
2. Semiconductor production
3. Food and beverage automation

Conclusion
Choosing the right actuator housing depends on your environment, space,protection needs, and budget. For flexible and affordable setups,open-type actuators are sufficient.lf your machine is in a semi-dusty environment, go for semi-closed. When protection and durability are critical, built-in actuators are the best fit.