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What are linear motors?

A linear motor is a drive solution that differs from a rotary motor: Unlike a rotary machine, a linear motor generates does not generate a rotating movement a linear motor does not generate a rotary motion in the driven object, but moves it in a straight line or along a curved path. A linear motor is used when the dynamics achieved by a rotating servomotor are not sufficient and when a direct translational movement is required instead. a direct translatory movement (linear (linear movement) must be realised instead. This is the case, for example, when users need to be driven directly (linear motors) or for precise adjustment processes (linear cylinders).

How does a linear motor work?

The functional principle of linear motors can be derived from the principle of rotary motors lead. Unlike rotary drives, the active, energised part of a linear motor is often moved while the electrically passive part remains stationary. "Electrically passive" here means that the magnetic field is usually generated by permanent magnets, which can be arranged in any order. The reaction forces must be absorbed by the machine bed or the system.

While rotary motors require transmission elements such as belts, chains or similar to indirectly convert a rotary movement into a translatory one, linear drives make it possible to convert a movement and feed forces directly. Linear motors are therefore also known as direct drives are also referred to as direct drives.

Linear motors can achieve very high acceleration (up to 6 g) and travel speeds of up to 13 m/s (48 km/h). They are therefore particularly suitable for use in machine tools, positioning and handling systems and machining centres.

Servo linear motors from SEW-EURODRIVE

With the virtually wear and maintenance-free synchronous linear servomotors SL2 SEW-EURODRIVE offers high-quality drive solutions. The convection-cooled or forced-ventilated direct drives are particularly suitable for handling tasks, pick and place applications and co-rotating machining. You can buy first-class linear motors from us that are ideally suited to your applications.

What are linear cylinders?

Linear or electric cylinders are electric adjustment unitsthat can extend and retract a rod in a straight line. Electric cylinders are also a powerful alternative to pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders.

Electric cylinders are driven by an electric motor. This is often a servomotor. In some cases, the motor is coupled with a gear unit; however, the motor usually generates the movement directly via a threaded spindle. The screw can be retracted and extended via CCW/ CW rotation. The movement is limited by the user and sometimes also by a limit switch. Electric cylinders can be used for thrust and/or compression forces.

Compared to hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, the installation of electric cylinders is very simple, as only energy in the form of current needs to be supplied - there is no need for complex pressure generators. Electric cylinders are also usually more compact than the other two variants and are therefore easier to integrate. You also usually benefit from a cost advantage when using electric cylinders. cost advantage, as there is no need for the entire high-pressure part (energy, preparation, hoses, etc.). While hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders require push to hold a position even when at rest, electric cylinders are usually self-locking due to the thread pitch of the screw. self-locking. This allows them to remain in a certain position. Compactness is achieved in the following way:

  • through a short screw in the axis-serialised design
  • by a high level of integration of the motor (and gear unit)
  • or by an axially parallel design in which the motor is installed above the screw to be driven (and connected via the gear unit if necessary).

Electric cylinders from SEW-EURODRIVE

SEW-EURODRIVE offers you the grease and oil bath lubricated electric cylinders of the CMS series.. series. The patented oil bath lubrication has the advantage of being a lubrication for life. Relubrication of the threaded spindle is therefore obsolete.

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