Seems this would make it possible to make a relatively cheap waterproof actuator if you made it out of something corrosion resistant?

I've been looking for actuators to use in damp/wet environments and sealed actuators are rather expensive and supposedly don't last too long

Some hot water radiator systems use wax actuated valves made from brass (Taco brand is common). They are extremely simple and robust.

thank you for the pointer!

I've struggled to protect eletronics. Waterproof enclosures all fail over time. Though I have some ideas for immersion in mineral oil. But finding actuators that could work has been a bit of a struggle. These look cool, though maybe not something one could run off 5V :) Ill keep looking around

This is why wax motors are used for washing machine door locks.

how does it work for a door lock?it seem it works pretty slowly.

Mayne you know, are the internal components already designed with corrosion in mind?