(July 21, 2011)

Sophisticated automation systems can be developed using the latest linear guides and actuators.

The quest for increasing automation and productivity, especially in technically demanding applications relies heavily on extremes of accuracy, speed and reliability, often under demanding production or environmental conditions.

In many applications, the key to achieving this success is the use of linear motion devices, which combine otherwise standard components that can be sourced easily and cost effectively to create specially designed bespoke motion and control systems.

These systems have been used extensively throughout industry for some time as a proven technology, offering extremely high levels of performance over long, low maintenance operating lives, with the ability to position even the heaviest loads with submicron levels of precision and repeatability. Perhaps most importantly, this provides companies with the opportunity to make considerable improvements in line efficiency, and, as a result, boost profitability. In addition, many businesses are realising significant cuts in operating costs, as these systems require minimal maintenance or manual intervention.

Including linear bearings, profile rail guides, precision rail guides, ball and roller screws, these devices are used either to position or actuate an object in one or multiple axis in a wide range of environments, from aviation systems and medical scanners to high speed factory automation lines, where space and weight savings and almost silent operation are critical. Furthermore, it is becoming increasingly common for leading manufacturers to combine these individual components to deliver subassemblies that serve as self-contained units to provide enhanced performance, in terms of speed, strength, accuracy and reliability, while reducing machine build time and costs.

In particular, ball screws have been widely used throughout industry for many years. With leading manufacturers such as SKF continuously developing the technology to meet changing market demands, ball screws continue to be a popular choice in many applications for providing a cost effective combination of reliability, accuracy and robustness. Indeed, the latest ball screws offer particularly high levels of precision and repeatability, with optimised designs to minimize frictional losses, noise and heat, and advanced materials with excellent mechanical characteristics to reduce size and weight, while improving overall performance.

Equally, the latest linear and rotary actuators are capable of high levels of speed, temperature stability, and accuracy. There is now such a wide variety of functionality and capabilities available that the right solution can be found to meet the load and speed requirements of any automation application. Furthermore, a growing range of controls and operating devices is expanding the environments in which electromechanical actuation can be beneficial.

Many actuators now feature modular designs that make it easy to interchange critical components such as motors, gears, screws and attachments. This ability to custom-build actuators easily and cost effectively from standard parts makes the technology suitable for a diverse array of applications, including many where the use of electromechanical technology has previously been limited. The latest actuators are easier to install and maintain than ever before, and offer compact dimensions that allow the space required for automation systems to be minimised.

Offering strong load carrying capacities, fast duty cycles and quiet movement, electromechanical actuators now provide designers, system builders and OEMs a viable alternative to pneumatic and hydraulic power in challenging industrial environments. In addition to providing a cost effective alternative, electromechanical technology is extremely energy efficient and safe.

As well as linear actuators, electromechanical rotary actuators can also be specified that are compact in size but able to produce high torque. As these actuators can withstand heavy loads, they can be used as an integral load-bearing element of an automation system. To save costs, a range of standard rotary actuators are available in a variety of sizes to suit most applications.

However, it is important to note that in order to gain the maximum benefits, in terms of cost and performance, offered by the latest linear motion technology, it is vital that the specific requirements of the application are taken into consideration right at the start of the machine design process. Leading manufacturers, such as ourselves, are able to offer expert advice and support at this stage to ensure that all the relevant factors are taken into account, such as the environmental conditions in which the system will operate, as well as the loads to be carried and the levels of precision needed. In doing so, a solution can be developed that offers effective performance with extended maintenance intervals and long operating life.

Most critically, a properly specified linear motion system can increase dramatically the efficiency of machinery enabling, for example, quick size adjustments and product changeovers, which are essential for busy production and processing lines, and positioning or actuating items with exceptional accuracy and regularity.

Thanks to the recent developments in linear motion technology there is now a product to meet the demands of almost any application, whether it be a ready to install unit or a combination of standardised components that can be used to create a bespoke system.

By paying careful attention to the specific requirements of the end user, it is possible to create a solution that provides unparalleled levels of accuracy and reliability, which in turns pays a considerable contribution to improving productivity and, ultimately, profitability.

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