Electromechanical cylinder is powerful, features hygienic design

With the second generation EMC electromechanical cylinder, Rexroth expands the possibilities for utilizing these compact drive units. With their hygienic design and IP65 protection class, they are now suitable for applications with frequent cleaning cycles in the food industry. The new size EMC100-XC-2 increases the power density for feeding forces of up to 56 kN, e.g., for applications in forming technology. An optional force sensor allows decentralized process controls without a higher-level control system.

The axis penetrates the narrow working area and approaches different positions, or varies the pressing force: electromechanical cylinders combine the advantages of a slim cylinder with the possibilities provided by digital control of electrical drives. The ready-to-install drive units consist of anodized aluminum profiles in ISO standard dimensions, with an integrated ball screw drive. They cover variable-length strokes of up to 1,500 mm. In the newly developed second generation, Rexroth has implemented the principle of hygienic design in the cylinder body. There are no recesses or slots in which dirt can be trapped. The screws on the end face can be optionally sealed. Together with the version in IP65, which is also valid for the timing belt side drive, the EMC withstands frequent cleaning cycles and spray water.

For use in applications with particularly aggressive cleaning agents, the version in IP65 + R ensures a long service life with seals and scrapers made from chemically stable materials. A pressure compensation port prevents the occurrence of overpressure or negative pressure in the cylinder for the versions in IP65.

Additional size and optional force sensors
As the seventh size, the EMC100-XC-2 variant completes the product range. XC stands for extra capacity. The EMC-100-XC is longer than the EMC-100- NN-2, a larger axial bearing and larger ball screw drive provide up to 56 kN of feeding force—at the same profile cross section. This widens the usage for electromechanical cylinders from Rexroth towards more powerful applications in forming and machining.

Furthermore, Rexroth offers all sizes with an optional force measuring pin. This can be placed on the end of the piston rod as well as on the timing belt side drive. The sensors transmit the values with a +/- 10V analog signal to the drive. A Motion Logic System, which can be optionally integrated in the Rexroth drives, evaluates these signals and enables decentralized process control without a higher-level control system. The certified Safety on Board functions that are integrated in the drive simplify implementation of the Machinery Directive with low engineering effort.

In addition, the new housing is equal in its dimensions to those of the first generation. Interchangeability is thereby ensured. The technical data of the second generation is the same or better for all sizes, in comparison with the previous series. As a function of the piston rod position, the new EMC catalog now contains diagrams for the permitted radial piston rod force. With the newly designed lubrication points, users can integrate the electromechanical cylinder in central lubrication concepts. On request, the modules can be delivered by Rexroth without initial lubricant allowing users to apply industry-specific lubricants.

Rexroth provides a wide range of servomotors and drive controls which are suitable for the different sizes. Users can also operate the electromechanical cylinders using motors and controllers from other manufacturers. An online configurator supports selection of the suitable motor attachment kit.

Bosch Rexroth
www.boschrexroth.com/emc