Posted to News on 22nd Apr 2011, 11:43
ACT series linear actuators use linear servo motors
Aerotech's new ACT series linear actuators are based on a cost-effective uncomplicated design featuring ultra-smooth brushless linear servomotors, sub-micron-level encoder feedback and heavy-duty linear guide bearings. These actuators are suitable for use in demanding high-throughput, high-accuracy positioning applications for parts handling, assembly, dispensing, pick-and-place, non-contact inspection and scanning.
Available in widths of 115mm, 140mm and 165mm, and with travel range from 100mm to 1.5m, the modular ACT series linear actuators provide the capability for higher production throughput and improved accuracy in comparison to ball screw and belt-driven alternatives, with a maximum speed of 5m/s and acceleration to 5 'g'. Furthermore, a wide and flexible choice of options enables customers to select a complete positioning system with price and performance that are matched to the requirements. These include uncertified, certified or HALAR interferometer calibrated accuracy grades and a choice of power performance through a forced air-cooled motor option. There are also alternative cable management systems and mechanical interfacing options ranging from single and X-Y axis configurations through to multi-axis systems with dual parallel axes in gantry positioning styles, as well as Z and theta axes selected from other Aerotech ranges of positioning stages.
The ACT series linear actuator uses Aerotech's direct-drive U-channel linear servomotor technology, which brings smooth performance with no cogging due to its non-magnetic forcer coil. With zero backlash, zero friction and none of the windup associated with screw-driven actuators, the 320V DC linear motor permits outstanding performance plus smooth velocity and positioning control; and with no contacting parts to wear, the motor requires almost no maintenance.
No stray magnetic fields
A further benefit of the U-channel design is that the linear motor's magnetic field is self-contained and suitable for high-performance applications that cannot tolerate the stray magnetic fields that are typically generated by flat magnet track alternatives.
The high-performance linear encoder, located within the stage and close to the motor for maximum protection and exacting positional accuracy, helps to deliver an outstanding bidirectional repeatability of up to +/-1um for calibrated stages with encoder resolution below 0.1um. Encoder resolutions range from 0.005 to 1.0um and calibrated HALAR accuracy can be up to +/-5um microns for the 1.5m travel version.
Robust and durable linear guide bearings with dual seals are used throughout the ACT series in graduated sizes to suit increasing loads and dynamic performance. For the 165mm wide stage, the maximum horizontal load is 60kg with a 30kg side load rating. Across the range, the low-maintenance, long-life design is rated for 20,000 hours MTBF.
The new ACT series can be delivered as a part of a complete motion control sub-system with Aerotech's advanced motion controls and servo amplifiers to ensure optimum performance. The range includes the PC-based A3200 Digital Automation Platform , the new MotionPAC programmable automation controller, or the Ensemble and Soloist standalone motion controllers with integrated drives. Through the range, users can choose PC-based software-only control or standalone systems in rack- or desk-mounted options to match the application requirements. Aerotech controllers offer a very wide choice of machine controls and sophisticated motion commands that can include IEC 61131-3, Microsoft .NET Framework and LabVIEW programming capability with advanced software and analytical functions that are designed to optimise machine performance, increase precision and improve throughput.
Follow the link for more information about the ACT series linear actuators from Aerotech.
