Unique modular construction provides optimum linear motor combinations for almost all linear drive applications

Citation

(1999), "Unique modular construction provides optimum linear motor combinations for almost all linear drive applications", Assembly Automation, Vol. 19 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.1999.03319aad.004

Unique modular construction provides optimum linear motor combinations for almost all linear drive applications

Unique modular construction provides optimum linear motor combinations for "almost all" linear drive applications

Keywords Linear motor, Part presentation

The unique modular construction of INMOCO's new LS range of synchronous linear motors offers considerable cost and space savings benefits to OEMs and users, who need only purchase the length of magnetic way and slide necessary for their application. The simplicity of the design means that almost all linear drive applications, in the thrust range from 100N to 6000N, and with accelerations of up to 162m/s², are realizable (see Plate 4).

Specifying a system with the LS range of linear motors is just a simple matter of combining the length of slide required with the length and appropriate width of magnetic way. This not only reduces costs but also greatly simplifies handling and mounting. The flexibility of the system design also enables more than one slide to be operated, jointly, on a single magnetic way. As a result, multi-axis applications can be achieved as well as increases in thrust force.

A further advantage is that the linear motor slides are available with windings for 560V or 300V DC bus voltage. This allows the user to select the best possible drive package optimizing size, performance and cost.

Plate 4 INMOCO's unique modular construction provides optimum linear motor combinations for "almost all" linear drive applications

Added to the modular simplicity, perfect controllability, and high speed and thrust capabilities of LS linear motors is another major user feature: ruggedness in design. As a protection against damage during operation and mounting, the high density (NeFeb) magnets in the ways are covered by stainless steel. In addition, the slide meets protection class IP65 ­ without using a costly metal housing ­ due to its full encapsulation (vacuum-impregnated).

The LS linear motors are designed with a 100 percent duty cycle. They are, therefore, suitable for all industrial applications even under extreme ambient conditions. As an added protection the motors are equipped with integrated thermal overload protection against machine failures.

For applications in warm environments, or confined spaces where conventional convectional cooling is not sufficient, an optional water-cooling feature is available. This enables the continuous power of the motor to be doubled or the accuracy of a machine to be improved by keeping the motor temperature at a constantly low level.

Instead of expensive connectors, the LS motors are supplied with highly flexible EMC cables which reduce costs and have minimum space requirements. Additionally, the leads of the thermostat are integrated in the motor cable which helps to reduce cabling and avoids machine failures.

For further information contact: David Cole, Intelligent Motion Control Ltd, 4 Brunel Close, Drayton Fields, Daventry NN11 5RB. Tel: + 44 (0) 1327 300320; Fax: +44 (0) 1327 300319; E-mail: DavidC@inmoco.co.uk