Aerotech introduces new standalone multi-axis drive and motion control system

Aerotech (www.aerotech.com) has expanded its Ensemble portfolio of advanced multi-axis motion controllers with the addition of its latest Epaq MR Series. Featuring a selection of up to eight micro-stepping drives or servo fitted in a 19-inch 3U rack, the newcomer comes complete with connectors and power supplies for feedback, motor power and expandable machine I/O.

The Epaq MR offers multitasking programming for five separate tasks of synchronized multi-axis motion as well as I/O with circular and linear interpolation, velocity profiling, electronic gearbox and contouring functions. Data capture and I/O triggered ‘on-the-fly’ position registration functions are also included as a single-axis implementation of the company’s innovative Position Synchronized Output (PSO), where laser power control and axis position and other external events are coordinated tightly.

The new Ensemble Epaq MR supports technologies such as linear stage and PWM servo amplifiers for brushless and brushed motors, and micro-stepping drives.

Each axis of the Epaq MR features servo feedback that includes primary and secondary encoders. It also offers a selection of 4096 or 65636 multiplication factors to offer the connected mechanical system with positioning resolution ranging from micron- to nano-level. Every drive features a complement of I/O that comes with an optional expansion card for additional analogue and digital I/O.

Specifically designed with Integrated Development Environment (IDE) software platform, the Epaq MR seamlessly blends simplicity with adaptability through optional software modules.

The Ensemble range of motion controllers also features a remote ASCII interface for non-Windows (including Linux) or Windows programs, enabling external command via the standard Ethernet port.

ATEX-Rated High-Temperature Hazardous Location Positioner from Exlar

Chanhassen, Minn. – Exlar’s EXP-24 Positioner conforms to both ATEX (Directive 94/9/EC) and CSA regulations for explosion-proof applications, and can be used to control most of the company’s three-phase linear and rotary actuators, including the EL100 linear and ER115 rotary actuators.

Housed in an IP66-rated enclosure, the Exlar EXP-24 Positioner integrates a fully featured 24VDC motion controller and brushless servo motor amplifier, and is able to power most resolver feedback brushless motors on the market. With an operating temperature range of -29 to 82°C, the EXP-24 is ideal for process control applications and provides the functionality to position a valve or damper by following an analog input signal and providing position feedback via an analog output. For other applications, additional motion modes are available to accommodate the widest possible range of motion control applications.

Designed for analog control, the EXP-24 also includes an isolated RS485 Modbus serial interface for easy integration into factory-wide process systems. Several diagnostics features are available including real time monitoring, following error, position error, input and output status, communication diagnostics, a multi-channel oscilloscope and data logger.

The EXP-24 is set up via Windows-based software. The software lets users select all aspects of configuration and control required for operation. Tabbed pages provide access to input all of the parameters necessary for configuration of valve control or general motion control applications and further simplify the set-up process.

www.exlar.com

Haydon releases one inch can-stack linear actuator with proximity sensor

Haydon Kerk Motion Solutions (www.haydonkerk.com), a leading manufacturer of precision linear motion products, has released the latest 25000 Series one inch captive linear actuators, which integrate end-of-stroke proximity sensors. The sensors use the technology of miniature hall effect in an IC package placed directly on the actuator. The non-contact operation of the switch provides the unlimited on-off life cycle in the sensors’ hall effect technology. The company’s can stack linear actuator with proximity sensors is suitable for limited space applications.

With the use of a rare earth magnet fitted directly at the internal screw’s end, the sensor achieves a highly repeatable on/off signal. The in and out movement of the screw allows the magnet to move forward and away from the sensor face, enabling the device to switch states. Purposely designed to function in a digital switch mode, the proximity sensor utilizes an open-collector output via a NPN transistor switch incorporated in the sensor. The proximity switch is a device comprised of three wires, requiring a minimum voltage of 3.8 VDC to a maximum of 24 VDC with a current consumption of 10mA max.

The company’s latest 25000 Series is part of the G4 portfolio of high-output can stack linear actuators whose performance are “second to none” when compared to actuators of its kind in the market. Improvements include high energy neodymium magnets, custom engineered polymers, optimized stator tooth geometry, and larger ball bearings for increased rotor support and axial loading.

Exlar 2011 Catalog Features Versatile Motion Control Solutions

Exlar announces its 2011 Product Catalog and Engineering Guide is now available by download or in print by request. The catalog details Exlar’s broad selection of linear and motion control products, including linear actuators, rotary motors and gearmotors, as well as new and updated products now rated for use in hazardous locations. Sections include series overviews, specifications, performance curves, drawings, system configurations, additional options and ordering information.

A section on roller screw technology explains how this mechanism for converting rotary torque into linear motion functions. This section details the advantages of roller screw technology over alternative linear motion technologies such as ball screws or hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders.

New this year, the hazardous products section includes information on the EL Series Explosion Proof Linear Actuators with new ATEX certification and ER Series Explosion Proof Rotary Motor and Gearmotor Actuators—both specifically designed for reliable performance even in demanding conditions. Additionally, the standard GSX/GSM and SLM/SLG linear actuators are now available with a Class I Division 2 Option for hazardous locations.

An easy-to-reference engineering section includes definitions and equations for determining move-profile, velocity and acceleration, force, thrust, motor velocity and torque. A table of factors for converting units of rotary inertia, torque and material densities between English and metric units is also included, as well as a notes section.

Exlar Corporation
www.exlar.com

Thomson introduces 400 Series Profile Rail Linear Guides

Thomson introduces 400 Series Profile Rail Linear Guides.  The 400 Series is available in 4 meter lengths, in sizes from 15 – 45 mm in 5 mm increments, for extended joint-free rail transfer, even in smaller-sized applications. Double-faced ball track bearing arrangements allow for compliance to simplify installation, and enable equal load carrying capacity in all directions. The 400 Series is available with standard or ball cage carriages that use the same rail design.

400 Series Profile Rail Linear Guides are rated to handle loads ranging from 9800 N up to 129,500 N. They feature a polymer ball-return tube that reduces noise while retaining lubrication. The ball cage option includes individual ball lubricant reservoirs to increase running smoothness and operating life, while reducing noise by up to 30% when compared with standard carriages, even at high speeds.

400 Series Profile Rail Linear Guides are an ideal linear motion solution for uncomplicated factory and laboratory automation, packaging, food and beverage, life science and certain medical applications. With an industry standard envelope and hole patterns, they are completely interchangeable with other profile rail systems and are well-suited as a drop-in replacement. And for higher precision mounting and more compliant system requirements in machine tool, forming, and many other applications with demanding linear motion requirements, the company’s time-tested and field-proven 500 Series Profile Rail Linear Guides are an ideal solution.

Thomson
www.thomsonlinear.com

High Resolution Linear Actuator from Haydon Kerk

Haydon Kerk Motion Solutions, Inc introduces the high resolution 19000 series captive linear actuator. This new 20mm diameter can-stack has a 7.5 degree step angle resulting in smaller move increments and finer positioning ability.

The Haydon™ High Resolution 19000 Series is a high output, compact linear actuator ideal for precision motion applications requiring a small footprint. The 7.5 degree 19000 easily outperforms all other offerings of similar size in the marketplace today in force output, dependability, and positioning resolution.

The 19000 Series high resolution linear actuator is the newest addition to a larger family of 4th generation high output linear actuators designed and built with performance and durability in mind. Technical enhancements include optimized stator tooth geometry, high energy neodymium magnets, custom engineered plastics, and larger ball bearings for greater rotor support for maintaining accuracy and repeatability over a long life.

The high output can-stack line provides exceptionally high force-to-size ratios and is ideal for a variety of applications including precision medical equipment, scientific instrumentation, scanning devices, printing equipment, hand held devices, advanced optics, and other mechanisms requiring high force in a small package size.

Haydon Kerk
www.HaydonKerk.com

Accuride Expands Heavy-Duty Slide Options

Accuride presents models 7950 and 7957, two new slides designed to expand the company’s heavyduty slide line-up and provide an intermediate load rating choice between the 3600 and 9300 products. The 7900 slides offer full extension, a load rating up to 350 pounds, and accommodate drawers up to 42″ wide. For added versatility, the slides may be flat mounted at a lower load capacity of up to 150 lbs. per pair.

Designed for applications such as mobile toolboxes and utility vehicle storage, the 7900 slides are a good drop-in alternative for .75″ side space projects, giving fabricators additional slide options for midrange loads, while increasing the aesthetics of the finished product.

Model 7950 does not offer a disconnect method, while Model 7957 has a handed lever disconnect. Both models have an enhanced ball retainer design, which mitigates retainer migration. Two special order models in a smaller cross section of .724″ are also available: models 7930 (non-disconnect) and 7937 (handed lever disconnect). All products are available in lengths of 12″ to 36″ in a clear zinc finish.

Accuride International
www.accuride.com

PBC Linear Announces New Low-Profile Uni-Guide

PBC Linear brings in a new solution to low profile tasks and applications: the Low Profile Uni-Guide. A economical expansion of the popular Uni-Guide family, the LP Uni-Guide allocates the performance advantages of the larger designs—self-lubricating, maintenance-free, easy assembly—into a compact, 24 mm profile for smooth, reliable and long-lasting linear motion in print/scan, food processing and machine tool applications.

The Uni-Guide family utilizes the proven plane bearing technology of Simplicity®, which allows the carriage to glide smoothly along the slide. The proprietary Frelon liner ensures safe travel over dirt, dust, grime and other particulates without damaging the rail or carriage. Maintenance-free and self-lubricating, the Uni-Guide products require no additional grease or oil and thrive in applications where contamination must be prevented: food processing, lab automation and medical equipment.

Comprised of a simple, two-piece rail and carriage assembly, Uni-Guide products facilitate quick system integration without the mounting components and alignment necessitated by other linear slide products. These competing products, such as re-circulating ball or polymer insert linear slides, use assemblies with multiple rails and components, and require painstaking alignment to ensure uniform parallelism across all assembled rails and carriages. The Uni-Guide family promotes ease of installation by machining two parallel rails in one profile. The one-piece carriage design also simplifies assembly by directly fitting onto the rail without fasteners—saving the end user on cost and reducing tolerance stack-up.

To ensure precision tolerances are maintained, the rail and carriage of the Low Profile Uni-Guide are machined by our patent pending SIMO® process. SIMO uses a synchronized tooling system to mill all critical edges concurrently—creating consistently tight tolerances that hold within ±0.001’’ (0.025 mm) for assured high accuracy travel.

SIMO® also produces specially angled edges along the LP Uni-Guide rail to support clean wash-down without chemical pooling. The angled edges also work with the overall design of the LP Uni-Guide to prevent any contamination from accumulating in the assembly. This makes the LP Uni-Guide a perfect design selection for food processing tasks.

Available with hand-brakes for quick manual adjustment and positioning, extended carriages for enhanced load dispersion and standard tap holes for mounting ease, the Low-Profile Uni-Guide is a versatile product that can be tailored to meet the customers’ needs.

PBC Linear
UniGuide.pbclinear.com

::Design World::

Warner Linear Launches Website Featuring an eCatalog and Product Locator

Warner Linear has launched a new expanded website which provides information on their complete line of electromechanical linear actuators for light-duty, general-duty, and heavy-duty applications as well as custom actuator solutions. A full selection of actuator controls is also offered.

The new website, www.warnerlinear.com, features an eCatalog and product locator. Through the use of specification filters to instantly narrow searches, users can find the right linear actuator or control to meet their specific requirements quickly and easily. The eCatalog also allows users to compare specifications (side-by-side), view individual product specification pages, view 2D dimensional drawings (as PDFs), view 3D models, download CAD drawings in various formats, and submit an RFQ.

The website also features links to Distributor and Sales Manager Locators, OrderNet, and a Literature Portal containing catalogs, brochures, application profiles, magazine articles, and service manuals.

Warner Linear
www.warnerlinear.com

New 28 mm Diameter Ball Screw Per JIS Standard

BURLINGTON, MA — Steinmeyer, Inc. announced a new addition to its line of precision ball screws – a 28 mm diameter screw with 12 mm pitch. Normally our product line is guided by the DIN standard which specifies shaft diameters of 20, 25, 32, 40 mm, etc.

This new 28 mm diameter product was designed as a size compatible with the JIS standard. The ball screw is supplied with choice of two nut styles: single nut with flange series 1416; or double nut with flange series 1516. The ball nut is normally provided preloaded for zero backlash. The screw shaft is precision ground and offered in accuracy grades T0 to T5. Threaded length, journal details and overall length are per customer specification.

Steinmeyer
www.steinmeyer.com

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