Until 15 or 20 years ago electromechanical systems were unable to compete with fluid power in output and efficiency, but thanks to continual improvement they now offer advantages in many areas. Electromechanical actuators, equipped with a precision ball or roller screw and driven by an electric motor and gear unit, are coming into increasing use as alternatives to pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
A comparison of hydraulic, pneumatic and electromechanical systems quickly reveals the many advantages of the latter in terms of performance, environmental impact, complexity and costs.