Electric versus Pneumatic Masts

Should I choose a Linear Actuated Mast or a  Pneumatic one?

Pneumatic masts have been a reliable solution for many years. The main reason is that pneumatic masts are relatively simple but more importantly, there has not been many alternatives apart from cable-driven masts utilising the same telescopic design. Pneumatic masts are
deployed using the simple method of compressed air to extend each section within the telescopic design. This often requires the use of a compressor for heavier loads.

An linear actuated  mast utilises 12V electricity to supply power to actuators that extend the
articulated arms.

The primary issues with pneumatic masts are the reliability of the piston seals, the maintenance required to keep them in good working order and the process of replacing them when a failure occurs. One other thing to consider is to ensure the mast does not simply collapse, locking collars are often used which means an additional manual handling aspect to deployment and collapsing of the mast which can have safety implications. Maintenance can become expensive and often requires a materials kit to carry out the job.

Pneumatic seals require regular lubrication, often with the manufacturer’s products. Electric actuation masts require far less frequent maintenance as the parts are less susceptible to dust and water ingress. Failures occur more often with pneumatic seal type masts and when they do, the repair is not easily done on location.

To replace the piston seal kits, the mast generally needs to be worked on in a dry dust free environment as you are exposing the inside of the mast to the elements.

The actuators on an electric articulated mast  can be replaced in the field with no transportation of the mast to a workshop. This means less downtime and less cost. In addition to the challenges around repair, there are fewer working parts of varying sizes that could need replacing for an articulated mast, meaning that fewer critical spares are required to be kept in stock. For these reasons, consider the use of an electric articulated mast.

Innomast offers an articulated mast design with simpler and safer activation control. Light weight & portable, our articulated masts are suitable for a range of applications including Communications, Security, Surveillance & Photography.