BLM series motors only have magnetic attraction where you want it

Citation

(1998), "BLM series motors only have magnetic attraction where you want it", Assembly Automation, Vol. 18 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.1998.03318dad.006

BLM series motors only have magnetic attraction where you want it

BLM series motors only have magnetic attraction where you want it

Keyword Motors

Motion control specialist Aerotech offers a range of direct drive, non-contact linear servo motors which are ideal for applications requiring high throughput and high resolution/high accuracy positioning.

The BLM series has clear advantages over conventional drive train technologies, owing to their extremely fast response, high thrust force, high velocity and acceleration capabilities, with the motor achieving a top speed of 10m/s (see Plate 6). Other applications where BLM motors prove superior include pick and place, machine vision, scanning, imaging, inspection and general automation.

Because linear motors comprise just a moving coil and a rare earth magnet track, both of which are non-contacting parts, the backlash, wind-up, wear and maintenance associated with conventional motors are eliminated. In fact, apart from periodic cleaning, the BLM series motors are virtually maintenance-free. To make repair and maintenance even simpler, the hall-effect sensors are mounted externally.

The construction of the motors also makes them ideal for high accuracy positioning and cleanroom situations. The reinforced ceramic epoxy coil assembly does not need to use a metal support, thereby eliminating cogging, magnetic attraction and any eddy current losses (which would limit speed).

The assembly offers outstanding smoothness of motion by sinusoidal commutation and owing to its highly rigid, low inertia construction. The unique spacing of the magnets on the magnet track, which minimises force ripple, ensures extremely accurate velocity control.

Plate 6 The BLM range has clear advantages over conventional drive train technologies owing to their extremely fast response times

The only limits placed on the positioning resolution and accuracy of the motor are those enforced by the user's position components and controller. The series is also suitable for cleanroom environments since the non-contact motors do not produce any particulates.

An integral thermal switch prevents unintentional overheating when the temperature exceeds 120°C, which means the assemblies can be used with or without forced air cooling. The magnet track assembly allows mounting from three sides, and the modular design means the tracks can be assembled in multiple combinations, offering unlimited travel length. The tracks are nickel coated for environment protection.

For further information contact: Karl St George, Aerotech Limited, Jupiter House, Calleva Park, Aldermaston, Berkshire RG7 8NN, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 118 981 7274; Fax: +44 (0) 118 981 5022; E-mail: karl@aerotech. co. uk; WWW: www.aerotech.co.uk