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Low cost linear positioning with rodless actuators

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Apr 13, 2001

BSL Engineering has furthered its ability to provide integrated motion and positioning solutions with the introduction of the ER Series of stepper and servo driven rodless actuators

BSL Engineering has furthered its ability to provide integrated motion and positioning solutions with the introduction of the ER Series of stepper and servo driven rodless actuators from Parker Hannifin.

The ER Series actuators provide an ideal solution for users seeking a low-cost means of implementing programmable linear motion control.

They are characterised by a compact design envelope, and are available in an exceptionally wide range of configurations, making them a very versatile component for automation systems.

The ER series actuators are suitable for a wide range of programmable positioning applications - such as feed-to-length, parts indexing and coil winding systems, where speed or high resolution and repeatability are prime requirements.

The actuators satisfy these performance demands with a performance specification, which includes positioning speeds of over 5 metres/second, repeatability to �0.012mm and the ability to handle loads of more than 2,200N.

The rodless actuators are available in either 32mm or 50mm profiles and can be supplied in any length, from 50mm to 3,300mm depending on type and configuration.

They offer a choice of seven metric ISO mounting options, and a variety of motor configurations - including in-line, parallel and reverse-parallel.

The range also offers a comprehensive range of drive mechanism options; users can elect to use ballscrew drives for applications demanding high positional accuracy or thrust, or belt drives when positioning speed or low cost are the principal considerations.

A wide range of ballscrew pitch options and drive ratios further simplifies applications matching.

To ensure robust performance in all types of environments, the ER series actuators are housed in rugged extruded aluminium bodies.

These provide added utility to the user, with a design which includes integral T-slots to allow for the simple mounting of home and limit switches.

Rigidity of the actuator units is ensured by a construction in which the load-bearing platform is attached to the ball nut within the body of the actuator itself, and runs on an anti-rotation carriage equipped with high-efficiency roller bearings.

Alternatively, for heavy-duty applications that require a very high load capacity, the actuators are also available with precision square rail bearings.

To ensure reliable operation, both bearing types and all other internal ER Series components, are protected against particle contamination by a stainless steel strip seal, which is held to the body of the actuator unit by magnetic strips.

BSL Engineering offers a wide range of Parker stepper drives and motors for use with the ER series actuators, as well as a range of brushless servos for ultra high performance applications.

The actuators are complemented by an equally extensive range of accessories including; Hall Effect and reed switch position sensors, a linear potentiometer for absolute position feedback, and an electrically operated brake.

BSL Engineering also offers a complete range of motion control products supported with full design, engineering and systems integration expertise.