LinMot linear motors can provide substantial energy savings

Mike Webb, MD at Quin, explains: "LinMot's impressive example proves that their linear motor is a much better investment than a pneumatic cylinder. In this particular example the energy costs for a pneumatic cylinder will exceed the investment costs in just three weeks. As energy prices continue to rise this is an increasingly important factor for our customers."

LinMot has been manufacturing linear motors for over 20 years and understands very well the advantages they offer over pneumatics and other mechanical systems for applications with cyclical motions. They have a longer operational life, almost zero maintenance, they give greater flexibility, dynamics and accuracy and above all they have significantly lower energy costs even for simple point-to-point motions with only two end positions.

One example is based on a pick-and-place application where a 15kg load is run at 30 cycles per minute with a 400mm stroke. The savings from the use of an industrial linear motor, compared with the use of a pneumatic cylinder for this application are 1750EUR after 12 months, and 4650EUR after 24 months.

With a linear motor the task can be accomplished with less than 100W power consumption, and annual energy costs of less than 100EUR (0.12EUR/kWh). With a pneumatic cylinder, based on the cylinder volume and cycle time for this task, the annual air consumption is 24000m3 of compressed air at 6bar. The energy cost is over 3000EUR per year (0.13EUR/m3 at 6 bar).

As well as the obvious cost and energy savings, Quin are eager to point out that there are many other benefits to choosing a linear motor. Since the power transmission has no gearboxes or spindles to wear out, even very dynamic motions can be achieved with a long operational life and very low maintenance.

Position, speed, acceleration and force can also be precisely specified, making a linear motor a very flexible option. They are freely positionable and highly dynamic, and because they are standardised products they are available quickly with worldwide support.

LinMot have integrated the control of position, speed, acceleration and force so commissioning is made much easier. They are also commonly used as replacements for pneumatic actuators because they have a similar configuration and dimensions.

Quin has built up many years' experience selling LinMot's linear motors in the UK across a wide range of applications including mounting, packing, textile and handling machines. They can advise customers not only on the correct products, but also on the correct application to ensure they get the best out of their systems. For more information please visit www.quin.co.uk.