Magnetic Solutions in Modern Control Actuation Systems
Designing for Precision: Magnetic Solutions in Modern Control Actuation Systems
In today’s high-stakes defense environment, precision is non-negotiable. Whether it’s guiding a missile to its target or stabilizing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in complex airspace, modern control actuation systems (CAS) require unmatched accuracy and reliability. Behind many of these mission-critical capabilities lies a powerful enabler: custom magnetic technology.
Control actuation systems convert electronic command signals into mechanical motion. They control aerodynamic surfaces, valves, and other critical subsystems. The need for exact movement and responsiveness places unique demands on every component within CAS, especially the magnetic elements responsible for sensing, force generation, and motion control.
At Dexter, we engineer custom magnetic solutions to meet these precise requirements. Here’s how our technologies support the evolving needs of defense-grade CAS.
Magnetic Components: The Heart of Precision Actuation
Magnetic sensors provide feedback on position, speed, and direction—essential for closed-loop control systems. Hall Effect sensors, magnetoresistive (MR) sensors, and reed switches offer contactless operation, ensuring long-term durability in harsh conditions. These sensors are built to endure shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures, providing consistent performance where it counts.
High-performance permanent magnets, including Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB), Samarium Cobalt (SmCo), and Alnico, are used in motor assemblies and actuators to produce force and torque. With custom geometries and tight tolerances, these materials deliver stable magnetic fields that are essential for precise and repeatable motion.
For systems that require controlled switching or variable force output, electromagnets are integrated into solenoids and variable reluctance actuators. Their rapid response capabilities make them ideal for high-speed control operations.
Enabling CAS Performance: What Magnetic Solutions Deliver
Precision & Repeatability
Custom magnetics help maintain accuracy over the system’s lifetime. By optimizing the magnetic field uniformity and strength, we enable predictable movement for precise control surface adjustments, even under dynamic load conditions.
Responsiveness
Using lightweight, high-energy magnets in compact actuator designs improves agility. Brushless DC motors and voice coil actuators powered by precision-engineered magnets allow for faster, smoother control transitions with minimal delay.
Reliability in Harsh Conditions
Defense platforms often operate in extreme environments. SmCo magnets offer superior thermal stability, while specialized coatings and hermetic sealing protect assemblies from salt fog, sand, and corrosive fluids. Each design is engineered to maintain integrity through high-G forces, vibration, and rapid temperature shifts.
Application Spotlight: Precision in Action
Our magnets are used in fin actuation motors and control systems, delivering the torque and precision required for rapid course corrections. Paired with magnetic encoders, these systems achieve real-time position feedback in compact, rugged packages.
UAV Flight Controls
Unmanned platforms demand high-performance with minimal size and weight. Our magnetic solutions support agile flight control through efficient actuation and sensor designs that minimize magnetic interference and reduce power consumption.
Smart Munitions
In precision-guided munitions, magnetic sensors and actuators enable real-time targeting adjustments, improving hit accuracy while minimizing collateral impact. Our components are designed to withstand the thermal and mechanical stresses of launch and flight.
Engineering for Mission-Critical Precision
Material Selection
We guide customers in selecting the optimal magnetic material based on environmental requirements, desired magnetic strength, and size constraints. SmCo for heat resistance, NdFeB for high force density, and Alnico for field stability in calibrated systems.
Design Optimization
Our team uses advanced modeling tools, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to design custom magnetic circuits and assemblies. This ensures every solution is tailored for maximum efficiency and minimal size.
Environmental Hardening
Through specialized plating, potting, and sealing techniques, we build magnetic systems that maintain their performance through repeated mission cycles and exposure to environmental extremes.
Partnering with Dexter Magnetics for Precision Performance
Designing magnetic solutions for CAS requires deep understanding, technical agility, and responsiveness. At Dexter Magnetic Technologies, we offer:
- Rapid prototyping and field-ready testing
- Defense-grade materials and traceability
- Decades of magnetic engineering experience
- End-to-end support from concept through production
Whether you’re developing advanced missile systems, UAV controls, or smart munitions, precision starts with the right magnetic foundation.
Connect with our engineering team to discuss your next actuation system challenge. We’ll help you design a magnetic solution that delivers uncompromising performance in the most demanding defense environments.