auto light rack: linear actuator vs tubular motor

[mrpizzaface]

I am in the planning stages of a build and would like to incorporate a powered light rack inside my canopy. Had been planning on using a linear actuator with pulleys, and came across some examples of people using a tubular motor (the type used to raise and lower blinds).
The tubular motor installations looked simpler (less parts), and sleeker. They also seem to be quieter, and be able to raise and lower the light rack quicker.
I am looking for the pros and cons for either of these methods.
All experiences and insights are welcome.

 

[CC13]

Tagging along here. I have been trying to find a current thread on this for a while to no avail.

 

[mrpizzaface]

Tagging along here. I have been trying to find a current thread on this for a while to no avail.

Its weird... I can find snippets of information, but not too much. I hope we are able to change that.

 

[CC13]

Its weird... I can find snippets of information, but not too much. I hope we are able to change that.

I know!

There are a couple thread on RC about it, but all are older and I know a lot of the products and actuators used aren't whats available today, and nobody really posted plans or complete parts lists on what to buy to make these things work properly.

I was brainstorming and came up with possibly using a winch system (similar to large houses that are able to raise and lower large chandeliers for cleaning), but I more wanted an actuator functioning lift for my canopy.

Found these:
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/linear-actuated-floating-canopy-lift.374554/

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/santa-monica-filtration-scrubbers.467419/#post-5192342

 

[jjflounder1]

Do you have A Sketch of how you would like to do this ...

If you're just going to be lifting it buy cable ...an inexpensive gear reduction motor shaft maybe pulleys ....
Should be cheaper... Then a linear actuator ... And a lot easier to find load ratings .. compared to a tubular motor..

 

[jjflounder1]

If it's on the first floor and you could put the winch in the Attic would be really simple ...

 

[mrpizzaface]

I don’t have a drawing, but can note some of the particulars with this build.
Will be on the first floor, but I don’t have an attic ( apartment above me).
Tank will be flush against the wall, so no space for linear actuator behind the tank.
Tank will have a canopy. I was drawn to the tubular motor for it’s simplicity, but it sounds like your idea could work in a canopy as well.

 

[Fishinbob]

Mrpizzaface

Just got done making mine, ended up with the tank about 4" off the wall with the linear actuator and lift. If I could do it again I would use 2 actuators for a backup jic. I contemplated a winch and pulley system but I have vaulted ceilings so went another route.
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/l...&share_tid=374554&share_fid=1020&share_type=t

 

[jjflounder1]

Nice Work ...
Looks like you made the fram / track out of 80/20

 

[mrpizzaface]

Mrpizzaface

Just got done making mine, ended up with the tank about 4" off the wall with the linear actuator and lift. If I could do it again I would use 2 actuators for a backup jic. I contemplated a winch and pulley system but I have vaulted ceilings so went another route.
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/l...&share_tid=374554&share_fid=1020&share_type=t

Great installation! Unfortunately I don’t have any space behind my tank ( tank will be against the wall). I pan on making a tall canopy with a light rack inside that raises and lowers. Whatever mechanism I use will need to be installed at the top of the canopy. I have been having a conversation with another member on here about using a tubular motor. I am leaning in that direction. I will post a detailed build here when the time comes.

 

[reefwiser]

Mrpizzaface

Just got done making mine, ended up with the tank about 4" off the wall with the linear actuator and lift. If I could do it again I would use 2 actuators for a backup jic. I contemplated a winch and pulley system but I have vaulted ceilings so went another route.
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/l...&share_tid=374554&share_fid=1020&share_type=t

Great job and it is flush against the wall. I like it would have to built something to hide the 80/20 rack part as it is in MY WIFE"S LIVING ROOM. An she would not want the industrial look in HER LIVING ROOM.

Oh the like to the build is wrong try this to see the whole build.
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/linear-actuated-floating-canopy-lift.374554/

 

[Fishinbob]

Yeah I wanted it hidden aswell but didn't want to reframe the entire wall to make it happen. Original plan was to route wires in the wall. With the canopy down you can only see about 6" of black 80/20 from the sides it's a bit more noticeable. If an enclosed canopy was installed it could all be hidden.

 

[jjflounder1]

Great installation! Unfortunately I don’t have any space behind my tank ( tank will be against the wall). I pan on making a tall canopy with a light rack inside that raises and lowers. Whatever mechanism I use will need to be installed at the top of the canopy. I have been having a conversation with another member on here about using a tubular motor. I am leaning in that direction. I will post a detailed build here when the time comes.

You just want to raise and lower the light fixture inside of the canopy ?

it'd be nice to know the weight of the fixture to determine the proper motor ...

But a moderate-sized gear motor (similar to a car power window motor) shaft couple of pulleys on the shaft.. pillow block bearing either end of the shaft and you have a simple winch ...

Parts could be gotten from ...eBay Amazon online Surplus house ..
With a cheep key fob remote relay ..

 

[jjflounder1]

If you can mount it to the wall ...
This winch from Harbor Freight comes with a wireless remote ...
We just have to restring the winch thimble with two or four thin cables .. run over a set of pulleys and you're done

https://m.harborfreight.com/2500-lb...winch-with-wireless-remote-control-61297.html

 

[mrpizzaface]

You just want to raise and lower the light fixture inside of the canopy ?

it'd be nice to know the weight of the fixture to determine the proper motor ...

But a moderate-sized gear motor (similar to a car power window motor) shaft couple of pulleys on the shaft.. pillow block bearing either end of the shaft and you have a simple winch ...

Parts could be gotten from ...eBay Amazon online Surplus house ..
With a cheep key fob remote relay ..

Yes, my plan is to raise and lower the fixture inside the canopy. I will be using two 36" aquatic life hybrid fixtures, hanging from a 80/20 rack (frame). My guess is that the entire structure will weigh less than 80 pounds.
I am leaning towards using this tubular motor http://www.metechs.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=19&products_id=416536.

 

[Fishinbob]

Use the lightweight 80/20 if possible... the regular is way overkill and heavy for that application.

 

[jjflounder1]

Yes, my plan is to raise and lower the fixture inside the canopy. I will be using two 36" aquatic life hybrid fixtures, hanging from a 80/20 rack (frame). My guess is that the entire structure will weigh less than 80 pounds.
I am leaning towards using this tubular motor http://www.metechs.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=19&products_id=416536.

Link isn't working ... At least on my phone browser ...

Looked at the tubular Motors on that site ... They look cool .. they are not cheap .... but I don't see any load ratings ... Most are made for blinds curtains projector screens ...
I don't see any of them weighing 80 lb .

Maybe if you can call the company they can make a recommendation ..
IMO they look a little light duty to SAFELY do the job ..

 

[jjflounder1]

I stand corrected ...
I did find the load weight on them ....
The CL845E-1517 or
The CL845E-0628
Will go up to about 200lbs k

 

[User]

Yes, my plan is to raise and lower the fixture inside the canopy. I will be using two 36" aquatic life hybrid fixtures, hanging from a 80/20 rack (frame). My guess is that the entire structure will weigh less than 80 pounds.
I am leaning towards using this tubular motor http://www.metechs.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=19&products_id=416536.

Any updates on this? Would be interested in hearing how your build went