Linear system provides food for thought

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jul 8, 2003

A novel product combines a linear motion guide and a linear motor in a single unit to provide an integrated high-speed, ready-to-use precision system ideal for use in food processing applications.

A novel product combines a linear motion guide and a linear motor in a single unit to provide an integrated high-speed, ready-to-use precision system ideal for use in food processing applications.

Called the RDM-M, it is particularly suited to the movement and positioning of packaging system components such as filling, labelling and sealing heads where speed and accuracy are paramount.

One of the key benefits for machine builders and maintenance or production engineers alike is that the new RDM-M can be used to replace a number of otherwise independent components, thereby saving both component and installation costs, while improving overall performance and reliability.

The RDM-M features THK's low profile, extra wide linear guide type SHW, integrated with a servo motor that can reach acceleration rates of up to 7g over a distance of 1368mm at peak speeds of 14.5m/s.

It is accurate to within +/-2um and can operate at speeds as low as a few microns per second.

The RDM-M also benefits from THK's proven Caged Ball technology.

This system eliminates the problems of noise, friction, heat and wear, commonly associated with conventional ball race configurations, by enclosing high precision stainless steel balls within a sealed cage, with controlled density grease pockets on the circumference of each ball.

This effectively prevents contact between balls when in operation, leading to significant improvements in both overall performance and operating life.

Bob Love, Technical Manager at THK, explains: "The RDM-M is an exciting new development for THK.

Its versatility, coupled with accurate and reliable linear movement, means that it is perfect for a wide range of applications in the food processing industry, both in new machine build and retrofit or upgrade projects".