Nook Industries, a leading innovator of linear motion components and systems, has introduced an engineering calculator for modular actuators—one of the only of its kind in existence. The calculator works by simply choosing the desired product, entering its load definitions and allowing the tool to calculate the bearing stress and load to determine the bearing […]
Calculations
The difference between inertia and momentum
The concepts of inertia and momentum are often confused — possibly due to the similarity of their definitions. Inertia is generally described as an object’s resistance to motion, with momentum being the tendency of an object to continue moving. Both have implications for linear motion applications, but while inertia is a fundamental sizing parameter, momentum […]
Inertia Matching: Why Perfect Isn’t Always Best
Inertia matching is one of the inexact sciences of motion system design. When a motor and a load are coupled together, the ratio of load inertia to motor inertia determines how well the motor can control the load during acceleration and deceleration. In theory, a “perfect” inertia match of 1:1 (load inertia equals motor inertia) should […]
How to calculate linear bearing life
When selecting linear guides, have you ever seen a disclaimer in the catalog or on the manufacturer’s website regarding dynamic load capacities? It typically reads something like this: Dynamic load capacities are based on 100,000 m of travel. When comparing to products for which load capacities are based on 50,000 m of travel, multiply the 100,000 m […]