New compact-linear actuator exceeds speed limit

New compact-linear actuator exceeds speed limit

A new high-speed industrial linear actuator, has a specially designed low profile body, making it more compact so that it can be easily integrated into confined spaces in machines. The latest addition to the ServoTube family, the ServoTube 11 (Figure 5) measures just 28mm wide by 61mm high whilst still delivering the power, controllability and speed (up to 5.2m/s) expected from linear motor technology.

 Figure 5 The smaller ServoTube 11 provides powerful and low maintenance actuation

The ServoTube 11 linear motor pushes and pulls loads at pneumatic cylinder speeds, but with 12μ repeatability. The speed of the ServoTube provides equal productivity to pneumatics with added controllability, allowing machine builders to produce much more flexible, programmable machines. Highly dynamic motion is made possible by peak forces ranging from 46-92N with a continuous force approaching 20N.

One advantage of advanced tubular linear motor technology is that a longer stroke is possible than using existing small-linear actuator technologies. With the ServoTube 11, a stroke of over 230mm possible.

Designed for easy machine integration, the ServoTube 11 has an industry standard M20 end mounting and T-slots provided. The linear actuator can also make use of existing pneumatic compatible accessories.

Plastic bearings require no lubrication, making the ServoTube suitable for use in hygiene-critical or dirty environments and reducing maintenance in general industrial automation. A defining feature of the ServoTube family(Figure 6), the new small-linear actuator does not require an external encoder,making it ideal for use in wash-down environments. Also, both the bearings and cable are field replaceable to minimise downtime.

 Figure 6 The ServoTube 11 completes Copley Motion Systems' motion control range

When combined with Copley Controls' new EtherCAT compatible Accelnet Micro Panel DC servo amplifier, the ServoTube 11 becomes a versatile out-of-the-box small linear actuator. The resulting linear motion system is a versatile, low voltage directive compliant linear motion system for safe use in all industries,from medical-inspection equipment to packaging machinery or “desktop”laboratory automation.

The new ServoTube 11 is now available in volume in both linear actuator(moving rod) and also linear motor (moving motor body) models.

Copley Motion Systems (CMS) is the UK-based operation and Euoropean Headquarters of Copley Controls Corp. the ServoT0ube is manufactured in the UK by CMS.

Copley Controls Corp. is a world wide leader in high power amplifiers and high performance motion solutions for OEMs in the semiconductor, medical,pharmaceutical and automated assembly/inspection industries. Headquartered in the USA with a division in England (Copley Motion Systems LLC) Copley Controls has 20 years of experience in OEM partnerships. Our global commitment is backed with sales offices and local technical support in the USA, Europe and Asia.