Actuators

February 2010

Programmable Actuator
The IDEA(TM) Drive stepper motor linear actuator from Haydon Kerk Motion Solutions (Waterbury, CT) integrates a linear actuator, electronic drive, and control unit with a patented GUI (Graphical Unit Interface). The GUI enables the operator to automatically enter motor and drive parameters based on the actuator part number.

Complex parameter calculations or in-depth stepper motor knowledge is not needed. A plotter visually represents the move profile based on distance, speed, acceleration, and deceleration. The GUI also provides an interactive debugger to simplify troubleshooting.

The user can command the drive to execute one program line at a time, or multiple lines in a row. Other features include programmable phase current control, a single 12 to 42 Vdc supply voltage, and eight optoisolated digital I/O. The actuator is available in captive, non-captive, or external linear versions, both single and double stack lengths.

For Free Info Visit http;//info.hotims.com/28050-300

Servo Motor Actuator
The IMA integrated-motor actuator from Tolomatic Inc. (Hamel, MN) combines a servo motor with a rod-style actuator. Compared to rod-style actuators, the integrated design improves dynamic performance by eliminating the need for separate motors, couplers, motor mounts, gearing and belts.

The actuator provides forces up to 2,000 lb-ft with speeds of 23 in/sec, and positional accuracy of +/-0.00984 in.(+/-0.25 mm). It is available in incremental stroke lengths from 6 to 18 in.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/28050-301

Programmable Linear Actuator
The Series 500 programmable linear actuator from Nook Industries (Cleveland, OH) offers an expanded range of performance in generating high loads, longer life, increased duty cycles, higher speed, and programmability. Load capacities range up to 550 lb for in-line configurations, with parallel configurations ranging up to 1,000 lb and offering stroke lengths from 2 to 24 in.

The actuator is designed to be configured with stepper or servo motors and controls, supplied either as a complete system or simply with just a motor. Ball screw-driven designs are available for continuous high-speed, high cycle rate applications and can operate at speeds up to 25 in. /sec. T-slot extrusions accommodate adjustable limit switches. The actuator offers an optional linear position sensor that provides programmable positioning and verification feedback for both parallel and higher speed in-line configurations.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/28050-304

Linear Actuator
The MDrive(R) linear actuator from Intelligent Motion Systems Inc. (Marlborough, CT) is available in non-captive and external shaft styles with a choice of NEMA 14, 17, or 23 motor sizes. It accepts input voltages from 12 to 75 Vdc, handles loads to 200 lb., and is capable of 256 × 200 microstepping with an operating temperature range of -40 to +85°C.

The linear actuator’s screws are made of stainless steel with an optional Teflon coating. They can be ordered in 0.1 in. length increments. Options include an integrated programmable controller with RS-485 or CANopen communications, an encoder integrated with the lead screw for position feedback, and a QuickStart kit to speed design verification and time-to-market.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/28050-305

October 2009

Air Bearing Actuator
The Airpel-AB air bearing actuator from Airpot, Norwalk, CT, has a specially shaped stainless steel piston that is precisely fitted to a borosilicate glass cylinder. Introducing pressurized air into the air bearing’s cylinder produces a true bearing airflow effect around the piston.

The air cushion prevents the piston from contacting the outside wall. The resultant cylinder delivers long piston life and requires no lubrication. The bearing actuator is available in metric models with four bore diameters and ten standard strokes to provide precisely repeatable driving or supporting forces from 2 grams to 58kg. Operating temperatures range from -20 to +90°C.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/22928-303

August 2009

Intelligent Actuator
Tolomatic, Hamel, MN, has introduced the ICR Basic rodstyle actuator, an all-in-one linear actuator integrating servomotor, drive, controller, and actuator. Requiring only a DC power source and motion inputs from the host PLC, the actuator can directly replace pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders in packaging, material handling, machine tool, and general industrial automation applications.

Force and speed control are adjustable via potentiometer. The actuator operates on either 24 or 48Vdc. It is stroke configurable and provides 100 percent duty cycle durability for low-to-medium force applications. Maximum stroke length is 24in. Two screws can be selected, providing up to 80 pounds continuous force for speeds up to 9in./sec.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/22922-305

April 2009

Piezo Linear Actuator
Based on the Piezo Walk principle, the N-380/N-381 NEXACT® ceramic linear motor actuator from Physik Instrumente replaces classical lead screw actuators. It combines high forces and long travel ranges with sub-nanometer resolution in a small package.

It provides 1 kg of push/pull force, 30mm of travel, and 10mm/sec speed. The actuator has a self-locking, stiff design, and a 0.5in. front mount or clamp mount. Compared to conventional piezo actuators, the actuator’s stepping technology allows virtually travel and high stiffness.

The piezo walk drive effects linear motion directly, without the need to transform rotation with gears and lead screws. Backlash and wear are eliminated, and the drive is maintenance-free. The actuator can be controlled through USB, RS-232 interfaces as well as with a joystick. The controller comes with a variety of software drivers and programming examples.

For more information, contact http://info.hotims.com/22914-303

Electric Actuator
The EGC electric actuator from Festo Corp., Hauppauge, NY, is designed for high dynamic speeds and high rigidity.

It can be used as an individual component adapted to third-party motors, or as a complete system. The actuator is available with ball screw pitches in sizes 70, 80, 120, 185, and toothed belt pitches sizes of 50, 70, 80, 120, and 185. Due to the high performance and rigidity of the EGC, a smaller size actuator can be used to save both space and cost.

For more information, contact http://info.hotims.com/22914-307

February 2009

Voice Coil Actuators
A family of linear voice coil actuators from BEI Kimco Magnetics (Vista, CA) include two spring designs based on magnetic rather than mechanical technology.

This technology ensures constant and precise valve position in either the open or closed setting when electrical power is off. Each actuator incorporates a magnetic extension or compression spring inside a coil assembly.

For more info, contact http://info.hotims.com/22908-310

December 2008

Thin Motor
The MigaOne™ motor from Miga Motor Company (Berkeley, CA) is a powerful but lightweight linear actuator built directly onto a PCB substrate. Now being adapted for use by NASA and Boeing, the wafer-thin motor is smaller than a credit card, measuring less than 0.1in. The motor eliminates bulky gears and leadscrews and occupies less than 10% the weight and volume of a comparable motor or solenoid.

The motor produces a 3/8in. stroke at 2.5 lb-ft. It enables design engineers to build a motor directly onto their own PC board with a proprietary electronic circuit. This yields a single board solution that carries out all the electronic signal processing and delivers smart mechanical movement. Applications include smart electronic locks/latches, air duct vanes/shunts, valves, advanced robotics and a wide range of biomedical equipment.

For more info., contact http://info.hotims.com/15144-321

Linear Actuator
The QLZE / QSZE / QST-KE) modular linear actuator from Nook Industries (Cleveland, OH) has a stainless steel cover band that wraps over the square aluminum profiles – creating an optimal solution to combat caustic wash-down issues. T

he stainless steel housing also protects the aluminum profile from exposure to damage due to clogging and pitting; thus protecting the deep structures of the extrusion and extending the system’s life. In addition, the stainless steel design requires no bellows to cover the extrusion which typically wears out over time. The actuator is suited for pharmaceutical/medical, clean room, food/beverage, packaging and petrochemical applications.

For free info. visit http://info.hotims.com/15144-312

October 2008

Load Actuator
The MX Series linear actuator from Pacific Bearing Company (Rockford, IL) comes in belt-driven vertical and horizontal configurations, and in a choice of sizes.

The actuator has large cam rollers to carry high loads at greater speeds. It also has a long stroke length to accommodate tasks requiring movement over further distances.

For free info visit http://info.hotims.com/15140-304

June 2008

Anti-Backlash Assembly
The ZBX Series anti-backlash assembly from Kerk Motion Products (Hollis, NH) offers a linear actuator for design operations requiring precise positional accuracy and repeatability, at minimal cost. The inherent damping qualities of the ZBX design suit it for vertical applications requiring noise or vibration control.

Kerk’s standard ZBX unit utilizes a patented self-lubricating polyacetal nut that is radially preloaded on a 303 stainless steel screw. The assembly offers consistent torque and repeatability when traversing in either direction through its load transfer capability.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15132-317

April 2008

Linear Actuators and Amplifiers
Instrumente L.P. (Auburn, MA) are equipped with the advanced PIC 255 PICA(TM) Power piezoceramic stacks. Designated the P-212, P- 216, P-225, and P-235, the actuators come with load capacities from 2,000 to 30,000 Newtons and travel ranges from 15 to 180 micrometers. All the actuators provide sub-nanometer resolution and available with position feedback for higher positional accuracy. Also new from the company are high-voltage amplifiers rated from 1 to 2,000 W. The amplifiers are available preset to provide 0 to 1,000 V outputs, and most can be run in bipolar mode.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15128-303

Microactuator
New Scale Technologies (Victor, NY) has added a smaller, lowerpower module to its SQL-M line of SQUIGGLE(R) micro-actuators. The SQL-M-1.8 micro-actuator module measures 13.5 × 4.3 × 4.2 mm – 35 percent smaller than the company’s original SQL-M-3.4 model - and consumes 300 mW when moving. It also has greater power efficiency, higher speed, and longer lifetime (more than 500,000 cycles). The module is less than half the size of solenoids or stepper motors, draws less power, and offers longer stroke with comparable force.

Each module incorporates a patented piezoelectric SQUIGGLE motor with optical limit switches in a compact polymer housing. Flex circuits connect the module to a miniature drive card, which can be powered by a 3 V battery and controlled using TTL signals. Motor driver ASICs under development will allow the entire motor drive circuit to fit in a 10 x 10-mm footprint. Specifications include a stroke of 3 mm, speed of 7 mm/s, an operating force of 15 grams, and an operating temperature of -30 to +80°C. For free info Visit

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15128-311

Linear Actuators
Haydon Switch & Instrument (Waterbury, CT) now offers its size 14 hybrid linear actuators with an integrated connector. Offered alone or with a harness assembly, this connector is RoHS compliant and features a positive latch in order for high connection integrity. The connector is rated up to 3 amps, and the mating connector will handle wire gauges from 22 to 28.

The actuator is ideal for those that want to plug directly into pre-existing harnesses. Available in captive, non-captive, and external linear designs, these size 14 hybrid linear actuators are available in resolutions ranging from 0.00012 in. (0.003048 mm) per step to 0.00192 in. (0.048768 mm) per step, and deliver thrusts of up to 50 lb. The actuators can be microstepped for even finer resolutions.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15128-322

December 2006

Mini Servo Actuator
Harmonic Drive (Peabody, MA) introduced the FHA Mini Actuator, a hollow shaft, brushless servo actuator. The unit is a combination brushless DC servomotor and an encoder, with a through-bore up to 14 mm in diameter. The flanged output is supported by a bearing structure allowing the load to be mounted to the actuator. The maximum torque is up to 250 in-lb, with an accuracy of 1.5 arc minutes. Three frame sizes are available, ranging from 50 – 74 mm square, and 48 – 66 mm in length.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/10958-322

Linear Actuator
From Exlar (Chanhassen, MN), the Tritex™ Series of electric linear actuators, combining a brushless servomotor, servo amplifier, and position control in one unit. Up to 500 watts of continuous power can be applied to the actuator’s brushless servomotor. The standard product is rated IP54 with optional IP65 rating for washdown and fluid applications. Mountings include front flange, rear clevis mount, side mount, and trunnion mount. The unit is available in standard IEC metric dimensions. Other features are: 24 and 48 V DC power, 25" per second maximum linear velocity, 1,250 lbf maximum continuous thrust capacity (2,270 lbf peak), and low resolution incremental feedback. Customization is available.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/10958-321

August 2006

Pneumatic Actuator
PHD (Fort Wayne, IN) has introduced the Series PLM pin locating clamp, a pneumatically powered actuator to locate, clamp, and support parts in welding applications. To protect against slag and other contaminants, the clamp is fully enclosed. A built-in locking mechanism fixes the pin in any position to secure parts if air pressure is removed. A manual part release is standard. Part support height adjusts with NAAMS™ shims. Position sensing provides open or closed sensing with industry standard AC or DC weld field immune switches mounted in a protected housing for consistent position sensing. Pin sizes are available in 13, 16, 20, and 25 mm.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5786-307

June 2006

Linear Actuator
The DGEA cantilever electric linear actuator from Festo Corp. (Hauppauge, NY) is designed so the slide unit remains stationary while the profile moves axially. Suited for space-contained, multi-axis configurations, the motor and cables remain fixed, minimizing the moving mass to just the load and aluminum profile. The toothed belt-driven actuator with an internal recirculating ball bearing guide comes in two mounting configurations: the basic, in-line coupling model, or with an integrated right-angle gearbox. The unit allows direct mounting of end effectors such as grippers, rotary drives, and vacuum components, and increases system dynamics by reducing the effective moving load. As the motor cables remain stationary, cable fatigue is eliminated. Features include speed to 3m/sec, stroke lengths to 1,000 mm, and 18-, 25-, and 40-mm sizes.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5659-315

Linear Actuators
The A-Track Series linear actuators from Warner Electric (South Beloit, IL) include a round, ground ball nut, a motor shaft supported by bearings rather than bushings, and limit switch and potentiometer options. The series has four models. All are compact, and will move loads ranging from 25 to 1,330 pounds. They can be located in confined areas and are weatherproof. Maintenance is not required.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5659-336

High Resolution Actuators
PI L.P. (Auburn, MA) introduced NEXLINE®, a high-force, sub-nanometer resolution linear actuator for telescopic precision. Based on the PiesoWalk® drive principle, the all-ceramic, high stiffness actuators provide pushing/holding forces to 600 N and a resolution better than 0.1 nanometer. They can be run in analog mode for active vibration cancellation and dithering and can operate in magenetic fields or in vacuums. Standard NEXLINE® actuators up to 20 mm are available, although custom and OEM units are feasible.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5659-317

February 2006

Automation System
Robohand (Monroe, CT) has announced the Smart Linear Actuator (SLA) modular automation system featuring DIRECTCONNECT™ technology enabling integration of Robohand pneumatic slides, grippers, and rotaries. The SLA includes integrated servo/pneumatic motion control, an online Web configurator, networking capabilities, and weld field immune electronics. The SLA servo slide is available in models SLA-90, SLA-120, and SLA-150, with stroke lengths ranging from 100 mm to 1,400 mm, and maximum stroke speeds from 1 mm/s to 1,100 mm/s.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5655-300

Linear Actuators
The Bug series of linear actuators from Ultra Motion (Mattituck, NY) includes ABEC-7 angular contact bearings and interchangeable motor mounting plates. A Kevlar drive belt and pulleys provide 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, and 5:1 drive ratios with low backlash and low audible noise by eliminating gears between the motor and the drive screw. There are 17 motor options including DC, DC servo, DC gearmotors, steppers, and Animatic Smart Motors. Absolute position feedback is available so that position is remembered if power is lost. Travel limits can be set at the controller, with an accuracy of ±0.0003" bidirectional and ±0.0001 unidirectional within the operating temperature range of -20°F to 120°F. Features include linear speeds from 0.001 to 20 in/sec, built-in end-of-stroke cushion, full stroke lengths from 2 to 8", and an actuation force of 500 lbs. A variety of mounting options is available, as well as optional magnetic switches, position feedback elements, and power-on or power-off brakes.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5655-309

Rodless Actuator
Tol-O-Matic (Hamel, MN) has introduced the B3W series electric belt drive actuator that can be used as a direct drop-in replacement for the company’s B3B actuator. The series features a sealed bearing system at both drive and idle pulleys, stainless steel dust band for internal parts protection, and a urethane steel belt. The B3W series can be used as an alternative to auxiliary rail systems.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5655-310

Voice Coil Actuator
Gee Plus (Elgin, SC) has announced the VM2436 voice coil actuator that provides bi-directional linearity over a maximum linear stroke of 0.59". It develops a peak force of almost 11 ounces in a package size of 0.94" outside diameter by 1.49" long. The actuator is constructed using a Teflon-impregnated coating on the core of the magnet assembly, with the coil assembly running directly against the surface. The actuator is suited for individual equipment requiring a z-axis drive.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5655-331

Direct Drive Actuator
Copley Controls (Canton, MA) offers the ServoTube actuator with twin outrigger bearings designed for applications subject to high side loading. A ball-bushing option with steel bearing rails provides maximum side-loading support. Optional polymer bushings, which use aluminum rails, are suitable for vertical loads. The new bearing structure minimizes jamming and simplifies actuator integration into rugged industrial equipment.

The new iron-sleeve design produces up to 20% more thrust than standard ServoTube actuators. Four models deliver continuous force from 14-27 pounds, with peak forces to 193 pounds. Twelve stroke lengths from 29 to 311 mm are available. The actuator’s magnetic design provides 12-micron repeatability and 250-micron accuracy from a non-contact integral position sensor.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5655-335

Electro-Mechanical Actuator
Exlar Corp. (Chanhassen, MN) has introduced the Exlar I Series electro-mechanical actuator with roller screw technology. Users have a choice of motor brand and type, including brushless servo, stepper, DC, or AC motor. Input transmission options include direct coupling, parallel belt and pulley drive, and in-line planetary gearing. It is offered in two mechanical grades. The IM Series offers mechanical capacity suitable for lower forces up to 4,000 pounds and cycle rates achievable by stepper, DC, and AC motors. The IX Series uses a brushless servo motor from any manufacturer for rapid-cycling applications requiring long life.

The actuators are available in 2", 3", and 4" frame sizes with stroke lengths from 2" to 18". Removable and adjustable mounting features, combined with the nuts and bolts of popular modular machine frame components, allow the user to mount the actuator in most machine configurations. Mounting options include side brackets, side lugs, pivot attachments, and side trunnions.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5655-343

December

Rod Linear Actuator
ServoTube moving rod linear actuators from Copley Controls (Canton, MA) provide continuous force from 35 to 66 pounds and peak force from 167 to 418 pounds. Nine stroke lengths from 33 to 318 mm are available. The actuators provide 20 microns repeatability, velocity to 4.6 m/s, and acceleration to 435 ms2. Its magnetic design enables the actuator’s non-contact Hall position sensor to eliminate the external position encoder. The actuators are an alternative to servo-controlled air cylinders and can replace ballscrew and belt drive positioners.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-305

Linear Stepping Actuator
Gee Plus (Elgin, SC) has announced the model DSM4234- LN-04150, a Size 17 linear step actuator that combines a twophase hybrid step motor with a lead screw. The maximum load capacity is 150 Newtons, and the position step size is 3.5 µm or 0.00138". The actuator’s front bearing is supported by a threaded nut that minimizes backlash in either direction, independent of loading. The actuator incorporates a threaded brass section at the front end, and uses a lead screw nut that allows a threaded shaft of extended length to be employed. The lead screw is a metric M4 size with a 0.0276" pitch.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-300

Nanopositioning Actuators
The M-2x series of motorized linear actuators from PI L.P. (Auburn, MA) are designed for applications requiring very high resolution, force, and speed. The units provide resolutions to 4 nanometers, pushing forces to 26 pounds, and speeds to 2 inches per second. A piezo-tip featuring 1-nm minimum incremental motion is available as an option. The actuators are self-contained packages consisting of a DC or stepping motor connected to a ball screw or lead screw. They feature a nonrotating tip and integrated non-contacting limit switches and homing sensors. Both stepper and closed-loop DC servo motors are available. DC motors come with a closed-loop, high-resolution encoder.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-329

Linear Actuators
The Z26000 captive linear actuators from Hayden Switch & Instrument (Waterbury, CT) are available with three metric strokes of 18, 25, and 31 mm. They are available in a variety of resolutions, from 0.0127 to 0.1016 mm per step, and offer up to 4.5 Kg of force. Using rare earth magnets, the actuators replace rotary motors, which generate linear movement through belts and pulleys, or rack and pinions. Typical applications include medical devices, small machinery, instrumentation, and other applications requiring linear motion.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-332

August

Actuator
The THK America (Schaumburg, IL) Type KLM Actuator achieves extreme accuracy through the incorporation of an optic linear encoder and linear motor. Direct drive and fully closed control results in positioning accuracy of 10 µm/500 mm and positioning repeatability of ±0.3 µm. These accuracies are obtained while operating at speeds of up to 2.0 m/s, with accelerations reaching 4.7 G. The KLM is designed for high-speed, high-accuracy, and long-term maintenance-free operation.
For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5215-307

June

Piezoelectric Actuators
Dynamic Structures & Materials (DSM, Franklin, TN) has added the FPA-550-HK model to its line of flexure-based piezoelectric actuators. The compact device is designed for corrective positioning of the large primary mirror of an advanced telescope system.

It offers stiffness of 2.5 N/micron to maintain a system bandwidth of >30 Hz when the actuator is loaded with 125 lbs. Its displacement range is 550 microns, with unloaded (fixed-free) natural frequency of 340 Hz.
For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5081-305

Linear Actuator
Haydon Switch & Instrument (Waterbury, CT) has introduced a Size 8 captive linear actuator designed with an integral anti-rotation mechanism. The Size 8 linear actuator features engineering thermoplastics on the rotor drive nut and a stainless steel Acme lead screw.

Occupying a minimal 21-mm space, it is available in resolutions from 0.0015 mm/step to 0.04 mm/step, and delivers thrusts of up to 4.5 Kg. Applications include medical equipment, X-Y tables, automation, and valve control.
For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5081-313

April

Low Cost Actuator
THK America’s (Schaumburg, IL) new Type VLA Actuator uses a compact Type SRS LM Guide featuring patented Caged Technology, which separates rolling elements with a synthetic resin cage that retains grease and reduces maintenance costs. The company’s QZ Lubricator ensures optimal lubrication within the ball screw unit while electro-mechanical components offer improved energy efficiency and cleaner, quieter operation. The Type VLA is available in slide and cylinder types, and is compatible with most popular AC or DC servomotor controller packages. Rated speeds range from 300 to 600 mm/s; ball screw leads are from 6 to 12 mm.
For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/4834-317

February

Actuator
Newport Corp. (Irvine, CA) has expanded its NewStep™ Series of positioning products by introducing a vacuum compatible version of the NewStep actuator, providing a lowcost automation solution for many laser and electro-optic experiments.

Good for processes operating in a vacuum to 10-6 Torr, the NewStep NSA12V6 actuator is a direct replacement for manual micrometers and enables precise motorized control of a wide range of translation stages and mechanically adjustable mounts. Measuring only 60 mm x 30 mm (diameter), it provides up to 11 mm travel with sub-micron incremental motion.
For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/4465-907

Pneumatic Actuators
Series 92/93 actuators from Bray Controls (Houston, TX) are rack and pinion, opposedpiston actuators available in two versions: double acting for rotation of 90°, 135°, and 180°, and spring return for 90° rotation. The actuators feature two independently adjustable travel stop screws and a cam on the output shaft, permitting precise bi-directional adjustment of actuator movement in both open and closed positions for quarter turn valves. They offer a maximum pressure of 140 psig (10 Bar) and for temperature ranges of -40°F (-40°C) to +200°F (+95°C).
For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/4465-911