Piezo actuators provide high force and high dynamics

Typical applications therefore include: precision engineering and micromechanics; nanotechnology; adaptive mechanics; active vibration damping; adaptronics; static and dynamic precision positioning; force generation; materials testing; optics; metrology/interferometry,;switches; and laser tuning.

The four newly developed piezo actuator series (P-212, P-216, P-225 and P-235) are equipped with the advanced PIC 255 PICA Power piezoceramic stacks. They come with load capacities from 2000-30,000N and travel ranges from 15-180um. Over 100 standard models are offered. All provide sub-nanometre resolution and are available with position feedback for better positioning accuracy.

Preload means that these actuators are suitable for dynamic applications (eg precision machining, active vibration damping, etc) and push-pull applications. The low-capacitance, piezoceramics are said to require less electric power than similar actuators – which is advantageous for high-dynamics applications.

Amplifiers

Five RoHS-compliant high-voltage amplifiers are also available, rated from 1-2000W, to drive the new preloaded piezo actuators. All models (E-462, E-464, E-508, E-421, E-470, E-471, E-472 and E-481) are delivered preset to provide 0-1000V output voltage and most can also be run in bipolar mode.

PICA power actuators are optimised for high-duty-cycle dynamic applications and high-temperature working conditions. With PI's extensive applications knowledge, performance does not come at the expense of reliability. All materials used are specifically selected for robustness and lifetime. Endurance tests on PICA actuators prove consistent performance, even after billions (1,000,000,000) of cycles.