Precision positioning systems industry leader PI (Physik Instrumente) has released an elevated version of its ironless linear motor stage LMS-180, which is well-suited for precision automation applications in industry and research that require highly accurate linear motion over long travel with high load capacity.
The LMS-180 linear stage family is available with five travel ranges from 6” (155mm) to 20” (508mm). Equipped with an ironless electromagnetic linear motor, the LMS-180 delivers smooth motion with 15 nanometers resolution and repeatability down to 0.05 microns. When driven with the SMC Hydra closed-loop motion controller, a maximum velocity of 19.7”/second (500mm/sec) is reached. Highly accurate position feedback is provided by an integrated direct-measuring incremental linear encoder with sine/cosine output. Recirculating ball bearings provide high-load capacity of 250N (56lbs) and durability at demanding repetitive cycle rates with high speeds.
Why Ironless Linear Motors?
Ironless, non-cogging linear motors provide very smooth motion, and a high dynamic velocity range along with rapid acceleration. They are suitable for applications where high resolution and extremely constant velocity is required, such as in optics inspection, metrology, photonics, interferometry, and semiconductor test equipment. The frictionless, zero-wear motor drives are also popular in fast automation applications, where reliability and maximum uptime are crucial.
The LMS-180 stage is also available in a modified version (LS-180) with a ballscrew drive and rotary stepper and servo motor options. The LS-180 stage provides even higher load capacity of 1,000N (224lbs), as well as higher push/pull forces. It is mounting compatible to the LMS-180 for easy assembly of multi-axis systems.
PI is a leading manufacturer of air bearing stages, piezoelectric solutions, precision motion control equipment, and hexapod parallel-kinematics for semiconductor applications, photonics, bio-nano-technology and medical engineering. PI has been developing and manufacturing standard & custom precision products with piezoceramic and electromagnetic drives for 4 decades. The company has been ISO 9001 certified since 1994 and provides innovative, high-quality solutions for OEM and research. The PI group employs more than 1,000 people worldwide in 15 subsidiaries and R&D / engineering centers on 3 continents.
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