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The steps from ballscrew, to flatbed linear, to tubular linear electric motors each represent improved performance in a few key areas.
 
An important change from ballscrew to linear motion is going from indirect to direct drive, with no need for gearboxes or belts to create movement. Going from rotary direct motion also means big potential increases in speed and acceleration.
 
Though ballscrews still have their advantages, there are trade-offs when selecting any type of actuation based on the application, there are some clear areas of superiority when comparing linear versus rotary motion, and manufacturers offer drop-in replacements as a response to this.

One of the standout advantages is dynamism, with much better acceleration and velocity possibilities. With ANCA Motion’s LinX® M-Series, velocity of 10 metres per second can be achieved, and a maximum acceleration over 30 G. Continuous force range is between 90 and 160 N.
 
Another tubular vs flatbed advantage is longer machine life due to no contact between moving parts; electromagnetic forces generate motion, rather than contact between a nut and screw.
 
Going from flatbed to tubular actuation also means greatly improved thermal stability, and therefore less expansion, meaning components and the system will perform with better accuracy.
 
With the M-Series, explains Product Manager Heng Luo, “Because the motor is floating in the machine structure, that enables us to put a water-cooling jacket around the motor and completely take the heat out of the motor.”
 
“That’s a vast advantage from a thermal perspective compared to a flatbed.”
 
Options such as the LinX® M-Series are growing in popularity in food and beverage, pharmaceutical and other applications where hygiene is important. 
 
The absence of direct contact between parts and no need for rail tracks means no need for lubricants, which can risk contamination.
 
Flatbed motors can be challenging to seal and protect, and tubular motors provide a superior level of protection from material ingress, as well as increased safety levels for the operator. The LinX® M-Series' magnets are also sealed in a stainless steel tube, with an IP66 rating achieved.
 
A further area of advantage is the smoothness of tubular motors versus flatbed-style motors. Windings are in an epoxy, with no iron core in the motors’ magnetic circuit. This means no downforces and much less cogging.
 
The M-Series also offers high levels of positional accuracy, with 10 micrometre resolution, as well as an integrated position sensor.
 
ANCA Motion’s linear motors were originally developed for sister company ANCA CNC Machines' FX Linear and MX Linear machines. ANCA is a leader in CNC tool grinding technology, with a series of world firsts since beginning in 1974. The LinX® M-Series has been developed within a culture of world-class engineering, developing machine tools where micron-level precision is treasured.
 
An international network of 125 engineers in strategic locations is on hand, offering fast, reliable support.
 
 

16 July 2020