Runout is a dimensional specification that defines error in the motion of a surface as it moves relative to a datum. The official geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) definition of runout applies to the variation of a circular feature — such as a shaft or spindle — as it rotates over 360 degrees, although the term […]
Rotary Tables
How to calculate crossed roller bearing life (with various load types)
A crossed roller bearing is a type of rotary bearing that uses cylindrical rollers arranged in a crisscross pattern, with each roller oriented at a 90 degree angle relative to the one adjacent to it. This arrangement allows crossed roller bearings to withstand radial, axial, and moment loads, so they can often replace dual-bearing arrangements, for […]
What are the key parameters to consider when sizing and selecting a rotary actuator?
Rotary actuators — and their counterparts, rotary stages and rotary indexing tables — are designed to move loads radially with high positioning accuracy. Similar to linear actuators, sizing a rotary actuator requires evaluating parameters such as torque, speed, and inertia, as well as ensuring the actuator can meet the application requirements for positioning the load, such […]
What are rotary actuators and how do they differ from other rotary tables?
When we think about actuators, we typically think about linear actuators — devices that move loads in a straight line, driven by a screw, belt, or other mechanical power transmission device. But there also exists a class of actuators that provide rotary motion for positioning a load radially around a fixed axis. While these rotary […]
Drives propel multi-axis motion
Drive systems based on parallel kinematics with electromagnetic and electro-ceramic drives can improve dynamics, resolution and accuracy in applications needing high precision and multiple degrees of freedom. Stefan Vorndran, Vice President Marketing Scott Jordan, Director of NanoAutomation Technologies, Physik Instrumente L.P. (PI) Motion simulation is often a crucial piece of the design process for evaluating […]
Expanded precision rotary indexer line from Nexen now motor/gearbox-ready
Nexen’s Motor Ready Sealed (MRS) precision rotary indexer maintains the benefits of the company’s existing patented precision roller pinion drive design – zero backlash, high precision, high torque, and high acceleration – while delivering significant new benefits. A high roller pinion-to-gear ratio lets designers direct drive the system with the addition of a servo motor […]
Oriental Motor 60-mm DG II rotary actuator with AlphaStep AZ Series absolute encoder stepper motor
Oriental Motor is pleased to expand the DGII Series product lineup and AlphaStep hybrid control system with the introduction of the new 60 mm DGII rotary actuator. The DGII Series is a line of products that combine a high rigidity hollow rotary table with an AlphaStep absolute encoder AZ series closed loop stepper motor and […]
Zero-backlash servo rotary indexing table from Sankyo Automation
The Sankyo Automation RollerDrive Reducer is a precision gear reducer that uses a zero-backlash roller gear mechanism. The unit is constructed from an input shaft and a turret (output shaft) that is assembled with roller followers. The roller followers are preloaded against a screw-like input shaft to eliminate backlash. Sankyo servo indexing tables offer a […]
New Oriental Motor DGII rotary actuators with AZ Series dc input drivers
Oriental Motor now sells an expanded lineup of DGII Series rotary actuators — including two new dc input AZ Series driver options. As the demand for complete high-accuracy and efficient rotary actuators grows, Oriental Motor has answered with the introduction of the AZ Series dc input drivers. This allows for more applications that are using dc […]
What is a rotary indexing table?
Rotary indexing is a process where repeated angular displacement during a machine cycle is followed by motionless dwell. A rotary indexing table is specifically designed to make repetitive moves around a platform. Essentially, they are highly precise work-positioning devices that index parts to be worked or machined in multiple operations. A rotary indexing table is an […]
