Schaumburg, Ill. – RSF, whose sister company is HEIDENHAIN Corporation, introduces a new slim profile linear encoder series MSA 700 and 800 for metrology applications requiring protection from contamination. The encoders feature generous mounting tolerances, low level backlash and optimized thermal behavior. Typical applications include optical comparators, and video and vision systems.

Central to the design of the encoders is the reading carriage and reading head connected by a wear-free and maintenance-free magnetic coupling. The carriage is also constrained by a magnet guide that affects the ferromagnetic tapes on the extrusion, so there are no forces that could stress guide parts and no contact points that could prematurely wear. Improving upon old roller bearing or spring coupled encoders, the new magnetic coupling and guide eliminates wear and provides even pressure along the measuring length. This combination allows for generous mounting tolerances without any negative influence on accuracy. An additional benefit of this magnetic coupling is the extremely low backlash, reducing one of the main weaknesses of sealed encoders.

The fiber-reinforced sealing lips made of fluororubber (Viton) are wear and coolant resistant, allowing the encoder to operate in harsh environments. A high degree of rigidity and ideally formed blade area of the reading head makes high velocities possible.

The scale itself is fastened via a flexible adhesive film in the profile, which compensates for the differing linear expansion between the glass and aluminum.  This ensures a reproducible thermal growth by symmetrical expansion or shortening of the scale to the profile. Expansion differences between the aluminum profile and machine slide are accommodated by flexible fastening elements.

The MSA 700 and 800 series is defined as sealed incremental linear encoders that have grating pitches of 20, 10, and 8 microns, and come in accuracies of 2, 3 and 5 microns.

For more information visit www.rsf.at.

Read more about linear encoders —
including various ways to measue linear distances, how linear encoders improve accuracy, the first consideration in choosing a linear encoder, and IoT functionality with linear encoders — at linearmotiontips.com/category/linear-encoders.