Lead screws use the helix angle of the thread to convert rotary motion to linear motion. The performance of a lead screw depends on the coefficient of friction between the nut and the screw, which in turn depends on the material used for the nut and screw. Here’s an overview of the most important factors […]
FAQs + basics
How to select a motion controller: An engineer’s guide
A motion controller is the core of any motion control system. Motion controllers essentially take an input command, which can be a motion profile consisting of position commands, and issue torque commands to a drive which powers a motor and moves a load. Choosing the right motion controller for your application begins with knowing the […]
How to select a motion control network: An engineer’s guide
With the vast range of motion control applications, no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting a motion control networks exists. However, there are a few key factors to consider when deciding on which network to select for a given application. 1. Reaction time and precision When selecting a motion network, closely evaluate the scan rate, how the […]
How to select a pneumatic actuator: An engineer’s guide
Updated April 2015. || Driving linear-motion applications with pneumatic actuators (or air cylinders) is a relatively easy and inexpensive approach. The actuator technology has existed for more than 50 years, but better piston seals and rod wiper seals (of modern materials) make pneumatic actuators more resilient and efficient than ever. These seals reduce leakage and […]
How to Select Retaining Rings: An Engineer’s Guide
When selecting retaining rings for an application, there are a number of factors that determine the right decision. The first question to ask is what kind of assembly does the application require; is it a housing assembly or shaft assembly? Next, determine the main critical dimensions. These include the housing or shaft diameter, groove diameter, […]
How to Size and Select Roller Chains: An Engineer’s Guide
Selecting the right roller chains for an application is an involved process. The information given here is meant to serve as a starting point, an orientation to the main points of emphasis in the selection process. There are two basic ways to select a roller chain, starting from two different pieces of information. One method […]
How to Size and Select Rotary Encoders: An Engineer’s Guide
Selecting a rotary encoder for a motion control system depends on a number of factors, chief of which are the accuracy requirements of the application, whether it’s position and/or velocity control. Before deciding which encoder to select, consider the most important factors which include: Positioning accuracy Speed stability Audible noise Power loss Bandwidth, which determines […]
How to size and select belts and pulleys: An Engineer’s Guide
Updated May 2016 || Industrial belt drives consist of rubber belts that wrap around drive pulleys, in turn driven by electric motors. In a typical setup, the belt also wraps around one or more idler pulleys that keep the belt taut and on track. More after the jump. The main reasons that engineers pick drives […]
How to Select a Gearmotor in Four Simple Steps
Updated May 2015. || Consider key design parameters when selecting a gearmotor for a motion control application. Step One: As the motor or gearmotor selection process begins, first gather the relevant technical and commercial requirements. This first step is often overlooked, but it’s a critical component in the design process. The gathered information will then be used […]
How to select a PLC for machine control: An engineer’s guide
Choosing the right controller for a machine can be a difficult and, at times, stressful process. There are constantly new products being released into the marketplace and it can be a challenging task to simply compare two controllers, much less identify the right controller for your application. It can take a knowledgeable engineer in tandem […]
