SMAC Demonstrates an Average 50%+ Noise Reduction vs Pneumatics

Study shows that using voice coil actuators versus pneumatics can greatly reduce factory noise pollution.

Carlsbad, CA - In an internal study, SMAC Moving Coil Actuators show evidence of a 50% reduction in decibels generated by moving coil actuators versus traditional pneumatic actuators.


People who work in a traditional production environment, often accept noise pollution as a necessary occupational hazard. However, evolving moving coil technology is making strides in noise control/reduction. Pneumatics range from 100-120 dBA. SMAC's team averaged this to 110 dBA for the study. (As a point of reference, shouting directly into someone's ear is rated at 110 dBA.) By comparison, SMAC Moving Coil Actuators came in at 40-60 dBA, depending on conditions, averaging at 50 dBA, literally less than half of the noise produced by pneumatics. This level of noise is comparable to a quiet library or office environment.

While there are methods to muffle pneumatic actuators, few will reduce noise generated to the 40-60 dBA range measured in SMAC Moving Coil Actuators.

The low noise generated by SMAC actuators is attributed to its airless operation. There is no compressed air generation required with SMAC. At the heart of all SMAC actuators is the moving coil, also described as a voice coil actuator. The essential principle is the same as a permanent magnet loudspeaker. The voice coil sits in a strong magnetic field, and by passing a current through the coil a force is generated in either direction.

Featured Product

Rapid Prototyping with the Modular Motor Series

Rapid Prototyping with the Modular Motor Series

Quick to configure. Quick to build. Quick to deliver. Parvalux understands the importance of getting product in the hands of customers quickly and efficiently. The Modular Range does just that allowing customers to configure their own solution, selecting motor and gearbox, adding encoders and brakes to create a solution perfectly suited for their specific applications such as conveyor belt systems, picking systems, parcel sorting equipment, pallet shuttles and automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). Read our modular range guide for specifics.