Amacoil/Uhing Improves RS Linear Drives

Amacoil/Uhing model RS linear drives are now available with five linear pitch settings and adjustable axial thrust. This permits varying pitch/thrust combinations until optimum settings are achieved. Optimizing pitch and thrust settings results in very smooth linear movement making the drives ideal for metrology applications and other linear motion processes requiring backlash-free, smooth movement.

Turning a thrust set screw increases or decreases pressure on the rolling ring bearings which raises or lowers side thrust. The thrust will remain constant even if linear pitch is changed. Likewise, the linear pitch will not vary if thrust is adjusted. For designers and operators this flexibility facilitates the process of finding the settings that will best enhance smooth linear movement and overall optimum drive function for a given application.

Pitch, or the distance moved per shaft revolution, may be specified at 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 or 0.5 times the shaft diameter. Changes to pitch require no re-gearing or adjustment to motor speed. Nor do any other components of the linear motion system need to be changed. The specific pitch setting is achieved by placing wedges between the bearings to hold them at a specific angle relative to the shaft. This angle determines the linear pitch which will remain constant regardless of motor speed.

Amacoil/Uhing RS linear drives are available in seven sizes for shaft diameters measuring 10 mm to 60 mm. The larger the drive shaft diameter the more thrust the drive has. The drive shaft is threadless and cannot trap debris which facilitates jam-free operation. RS drives have zero backlash and are used for automated manufacturing processes across a wide range of industries including textile, automotive, metrology and CNC machining. Depending on size, the drives achieve linear speeds of up to 5 feet per second over distances of up to 13 feet with axial thrust up to 500 lbs. Repeatable accuracy is dependent on the type of controls used. Except for occasional light lubrication of the shaft, no other maintenance is required.