In a recent post, we looked at traditional iron core and ironless linear motors, both of which have a flat-type construction. But another type of linear motor, often referred to as a “tubular linear motor,” is also gaining traction in industrial applications. This is especially true in the packaging and medical industries, where tubular linear motors […]
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What is an IK rating, and how does it apply to motion control products?
If you deal with electrical components, including electrical enclosures such as control cabinets, you’re probably familiar with IP (International Protection) ratings, which specify the enclosure’s ability to prevent the ingress of solid objects and liquids. But you may be less familiar with the IK rating system, which defines the enclosure’s ability to protect its components from […]
Keeping the elements at bay
Keep these five key factors in mind when selecting mechanical components for harsh environments. Chad Carlberg Product Line Manager for Industrial Actuators Thomson Linear As electromechanical actuators and other mechanical motion components expand in capability for heavy duty applications, so does their capability to resist harsh conditions. Extreme temperatures, high particulate levels, chemical exposure, high-pressure […]
3 things to consider when choosing a linear servo motor
Direct drive linear servo motors have seen a measurable increase in adoption over the past several years, thanks in part to end users’ demands for higher throughput and better precision. And although linear motors are most often recognized for their ability to provide a combination of high speeds, long strokes, and excellent positioning accuracy that […]
Beckhoff to premier new EtherCAT solutions, compact embedded controllers at ProMat 2019
Beckhoff Automation will show multiple new technologies that bolster material handling and logistics operations at ProMat 2019 in Chicago. The North American product debuts include the ultra-compact CX7000 embedded controller and a preview of EtherCAT G gigabit industrial Ethernet technology. The 45,000 industry professionals from 115 countries expected to attend the trade show from April […]
What are magnetoelastic sensors for torque measurement?
When a ferromagnetic material is subjected to a mechanical stress — caused by an applied force or torque — it experiences a change in magnetic flux. This phenomenon is known as the magnetoelastic effect, also referred to as the Villari effect, for the Italian physicist who discovered it in the late 1800’s. In motion control […]
Don’t forget these two things when selecting an amplifier for a servo-motion application
Using software to size motion designs is rewarding because engineers can efficiently predict which products are suitable for the application at hand. But key considerations (sometimes missed) when selecting a servo amplifier are those of dynamic braking and regenerative resistor braking. By Sixto Moralez • Regional Motion Engineer Phil Drexler • Regional Motion Engineer | […]
Get your gearmotor running … efficiently
A few tips for design and selection of induction and permanent magnet ac electric motor systems will make them more energy efficient. Gabriel Venzin ABM Drives Inc., ABM Greiffenberger U.S. Subsidiary Efficiency in motor designs is a more relevant concern than ever. With electric motors providing over 60% of all industrial power, efficiency is a […]
New RH-N gearbox kits from Nabtesco Motion Control are pre-engineered offering
Nabtesco Motion Control now offers pre-engineered RH-N gearbox kits. RH-N kits use the manufacturer’s newest RV-N series of gearboxes … to 20% smaller and 30% lighter than the original RV-E series. RH-N gearbox kits make for turnkey motion solutions that trim lead, engineering, and installation times. The RH-N directly bolts onto servomotors without the need […]
B&R X20-series stepper motor module to boost efficiency
The new X20SM1436-1 module from B&R is a new X20 module for direct control of stepper motors. The module runs stepper motors with operating voltages from 18 to 60 Vdc at currents to 2.5 A. Plus integrated current reduction function increases performance and reduces energy consumption. With the current reduction function, B&R has integrated sensorless […]