Hybrid linear actuators from Nanotec now with ClosedLoop

Hybrid linear actuators from Nanotec now with ClosedLoop

Landsham, 10th February 2011 – Nanotec Electronic GmbH & Co. KG has added an encoder option to its line of hybrid linear actuators to achieve ClosedLoop support. With the Encoder connectivity now these linear actuators are also suitable for critical applications that rely on error-free operation at high positioning speeds as it is needed, for example, in closed test systems or manufacturing cells.

Hybrid linear actuators have thermoplastic nuts and trapezoidal spindles. This combination of materials essentially distinguishes them from standard linear actuators which are made entirely of metal. The comparative advantage lies in the substantially reduced friction. Hybrid linear actuators are therefore nearly twice as efficient as conventional linear actuators with bronze nuts. The motor's service life is higher and the maintenance effort is less, thanks to the self-lubricating nuts.

Available in sizes from 28 mm to 56 mm, or NEMA 11 to 23, a resolution of up to 0.0025 mm per step and up to 1000 N shear force, the hybrid linear actuators from Nanotec are suitable for applications that require small and precise positioning movements, high shear and tractive force – with a minimum of installation space. Application areas include, for instance, medical equipment, measuring devices, handling systems, pumps and the like. The combination of a high-torque stepping motor with an inexpensive trapezoidal lead screw with a pitch of 2.5 to 20 mm allows for a high positioning speed of up to 1 m/sec. The comparatively high screw efficiency of > 0.4 increases both the performance and the service life.In addition, resolutions of < 0.001 mm/step are possible with the compact microstep drivers. Based on this, the hybrid linear actuators can also be used in high-precision linear axes.

Usually, linear actuators are operated in open loop mode without any position feedback. Any step angle errors occurring during overload remain undetected. Through the encoder option together with appropriate controllers such as the SCMI33, the hybrid linear actuators from Nanotec can now also be operated in ClosedLoop mode in critical applications. In contrast to open loop, which executes the steps without checking whether the motor has correctly executed the previous ones, ClosedLoop enables position control. In a closed test system, for example, it is quite typical that an overload occurs which leads to a step angle error. With field oriented control (ClosedLoop), such a step angle error is registered immediately and compensated.

Complex motion profiles can be set up without programming knowledge, based on parameters such as motor current, step resolution, speed, ramp, pauses, loops etc., and then set up and transmitted to the controller via RS485 or USB using the provided software. The system starts from either a PC in automatic mode or in standalone mode via an external signal. Alternatively, all commands can be executed with the well-documented ASCII code where multi-axle applications are possible by means of a micro-PLC.

In addition to hybrid linear actuators, with a threaded nut built-in in a hollow shaft of the motor, Nanotec introduces versions with an antirotational device that are available as ready-to-install, linear positioning drives with integrated end and reference switches that can be linked via the controller.

Together with energy-efficient controllers and drives, the hybrid linear actuators are top show items at Nanotec's booth during the Hanover Trade Fair (Hall 15, Booth D38).

Press contact:

Stefanie Schneider
Tel.: ++49-89-900686-37
Fax: ++49-89-900686-50
Email: stefanie.schneider@nanotec.de
Web: www.nanotec.de

About Nanotec
Based in Landsham near Munich, Nanotec GmbH & Co. KG is one of the leading manufacturers of motors and controllers for high quality drive solutions. Since 1991, the company has offered a broad product range distinguished by well thought-out design and strict quality control. Certification to the latest ISO 9001:2008 standard by the TÜV Management Service is proof of this quality. Only rarely can a standard motor or power electronics be used “out-of-the-box". That's why Nanotec builds customer-specific versions in relatively small numbers and works with its engineers to develop optimum and individual solutions for its customers. In-house final assembly at the company headquarters in Landsham near Munich and broad-based warehousing allow Nanotec to react quickly and flexibly to customer demands.