New from THK, the Type KR-RL LM Guide Actuator features a driving element that uses right/left threads and enables symmetrical movements with a single motor. Formerly available only as a custom system, THK responded to the high demand for a right/left actuator by adding the Type KR-RL to its lineup. The Type KR-RL Actuator integrates […]
Linear Actuators Archive
Get the latest product news, technical info, and FAQs about linear actuators.
New actuator offers high-performance linear positioning at economical price
The new SLA Actuator from SCHNEEBERGER delivers high-performance linear positioning at an economical price. Representing a unique position among high-performance actuators, only the new SLA Actuators deliver SCHNEEBERGER quality, engineering expertise, and global service in a highly customizable super-compact design at an impressively affordable price. SLA Actuators use recirculating ball linear guides that ensure smooth […]
Ball and lead screw drunkenness: What is it and when does it matter?
Unlike ball screws, which follow industry standards such as DIN ISO 3408, JIS B1192-1997, or ANSI-B5.48 for accuracy classifications, there are no accuracy standards for lead screws. Instead, many lead screw manufacturers have loosely adopted two of the most common ball screw lead accuracy specifications: lead deviation per 300 mm and lead deviation per revolution. Lead deviation […]
New frame size added to Curtiss-Wright integrated motor/actuator series
Curtiss-Wright’s Actuation Division has added a third frame size, the Exlar GTX060, to its GTX integrated motor/actuator series of industrial electromechanical actuators. The GTX Series actuators offer force, precision, and repeatability while eliminating or minimizing the maintenance and inefficiencies typical of fluid power alternatives. With continuous force ratings up to 2,668 N (600 lbf) and […]
What’s the difference between module and diametral pitch for rack and pinion drives?
Gear sizes are typically specified by one of two designations: module or diametral pitch. While both specifications define the size of the gear teeth, module and diametral pitch are calculated differently, with module (sometimes referred to as metric pitch) being the metric sizing standard and diametrical pitch being the Imperial (inch) sizing method. Standard modules for […]
Getting straight on roller screws
Knowing the differences between the several kinds of roller screws can help determine the best fit for an application. Michael Boudreau, P.Eng. Application Engineering Manager Rollvis S.A. Planetary roller screws – also referred to as satellite roller screws – have long been the primary choice for applications that involve heavier loads and higher forces than […]
Smart mechatronics add capabilities to linear motion applications
Today’s manufacturing system OEMs and automation end users are constantly seeking technology advancements to help make their lives easier. Industry 4.0 innovations have spurred a new class of smart technologies that combine digital electronics and communication interfaces for more sophistication, functionality, and ease of use. By Richard Hansen • Senior automation engineer | Bosch Rexroth […]
New direct-drive linear modules from PI
PI’s two new series of direct-drive linear modules are geared for machine builders and system integrators. The V-855 and V-857 product families were designed for high-load and high duty cycle industrial precision motion applications where traditional actuators or linear slides with lead-screw or timing-belt drives are not precise, robust or reliable enough. The maintenance-free and […]
What is ball screw whip and why does it happen?
Ball screws are often the drive mechanism of choice in applications that require high thrust forces with excellent positioning accuracy and repeatability. But one of the drawbacks of ball screw technology is that speed is inversely related to length — the longer the ball screw shaft, the more likely it is to whip, like a […]
What is a 7th axis (also known as an RTU) and when is it used?
Linear Cartesian and gantry robots are used extensively in automation, particularly for tasks such as pick and place and assembly. But for applications that require movements such as changing the orientation of a part or navigating around complex obstacles, the robot of choice is often the 6-axis articulated robot. Despite their dexterity, the reach of a […]
