Doing more with less is standard operating procedure across today's cost-conscious manufacturing environment — and that includes wringing more power out of machinery. Here we present some of the latest innovations to boost torque, plus explore one application requiring varied force levels.
Power-dense actuators suit linear and rotary applications
Tritex II dc-powered actuators combine power and control electronics with brushless servomotors and actuators in a compact package. With continuous force of 1,000 lb, speeds to 33 in./sec, and 12 to 48 Vdc operation, the actuators come in two styles: Linear units employ roller screw technology to convert rotary to linear motion in 60 and 75-mm frame sizes with 75 to 450-mm stroke lengths. Rotary units in 60 and 90-mm frame sizes output up to 4,696 lb-in.
Exlar Corp.
(952) 500-6200
exlar.com
Linear motor offers submicron resolution
The S605 Linear Shaft Motor offers acceleration force between 1,000 and 3,100 N and continuous force from 420 to 780 N. Available in three windings (double, triple, or quadruple), its shaft diameter is 60.5 mm; output stroke lengths are between 200 and 2,000 mm. Other features include continuous current between 8.4 and 8.8 A, a noncritical airgap of 1.75 mm, and rated voltage of 240 V.
Nippon Pulse America Inc.
(540) 633-1677
nipponpulse.com
Rod-style actuator features high force, small package
The IMA55 high-force servo linear actuator is now available with an optional roller screw that boosts thrust capability to 30,470 N. In addition, a compact IMA22 actuator has been added to the line; it features a ballscrew and delivers force to 1,446 N. Available in four sizes, the IMA line of integrated-motor rod actuators output stroke lengths from 76.2 to 457.2 mm at speeds to 610 mm/sec. The design enables easy screw relubrication without disassembly.
Tolomatic Inc.
(800) 328-2174
tolomatic.com
Supersize torque limiters minimize downtime
The Torque Limiter product line now includes extra-large models for handling up to 37,000 lb-ft of torque, designed to protect drive trains, gearboxes, and generators from excessive peak loads. Limiters minimize the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs while extending system life. Features include factory preset torque, maximum bore sizes to 5 1/2 in. with or without keyway, and operating temperatures from -40° to 80° C. Custom units are also available.
Zero-Max Inc.
(800) 533-1731
zero-max.com
Planetary gearbox maximizes torque density
G30A planetary gearboxes complement five series of Pittman motors, allowing a wide range of output torques and speeds. The mounting profile is 30.5 mm in diameter or 38.0 mm square when an optional mounting flange is used. Gearbox lengths measure 33.7 to 51.2 mm, while 14 standard reduction ratios from 4:1 to 1,296:1 allow maximum torque output of 2.47 to 8.83 Nm. Sintered steel planet gears promote high torque capacity and low noise in a compact design.
Pittman, AMETEK Precision Motion Control
(267) 933-2105
pittman-motors.com