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Product Line Expansion for Screw-Driven Actuators
Product Line Expansion for Screw-Driven Actuators

Product Line Expansion for Screw-Driven Actuators

With each new technological advancement, there is often an evolution of machines to do more with less space, and subsequently the need for smaller components to make up those machines. This is evident in medical diagnostics and laboratory science, as well as robotics and automation industries where small frame sizes combined with higher speeds, torque, and accuracy are increasingly requested.

PBC Linear is continuing to expand its linear actuator product line to meet this rising demand. In addition to our existing lineup of small, medium, and large mechatronics products, we are introducing a more extensive group of compact linear actuator solutions to provide engineers with more flexibility in their designs and budgets.

What is an Actuator?

A linear actuator is a machine that takes the rotational motion of a motor and translates that energy into linear movement. Actuators can be categorized by their drive mechanisms, such as hydraulic, pneumatic, and electromechanical. Electromechanical is the most common drive-type of linear actuator. Examples of drives include rack & pinion, belt, ball screw, or lead screw. Belt and rack & pinion drives are typically used in heavy or long travel applications, while screw drives utilize their pitch and lead to help determine speed and precision in shorter applications.

The product summaries below represent the newest additions to our compact actuator product line. These electromechanical actuators are comprised of either a ball screw or lead screw, along with a wide variety of motor and screw configurations that offer their own unique solutions.

The L Series: Powered with Lead Screws and Stepper Motors

The L Series linear actuators combine lead screws, nuts, and hybrid stepper motors into three different configurations: Captive, Non-Captive, and External Nut. Each of these types provides high precision and exceptional efficiency within compact applications. Additional advantages include:

  • 5 frame sizes: NEMA 08, 11, 14, 17, 23
  • Multiple motor length options for each frame size
  • PowerPlus motor technology for 25% - 40% more torque
  • Constant Force™ Anti-Backlash Nuts
  • Multiple integrated solutions (Encoder, Brake, Step-Servo)
LE Series Stepper Actuators

The LE Series Stepper Actuators combine lead screws and the popular external nut design with motors that are typically fixed in position. In this configuration, the shaft of the stepper motor is replaced with a lead screw that, when rotated, drives the nut along the length of the screw. This design is useful for a wide range of applications, but can be susceptible to flex and vibration issues with longer length lead screw designs. Main features include:

  • Simple and compact design
  • Greater acceleration and speed
  • Highly customizable lead screw (length and pitch)
  • Numerous mounting options
  • Most cost-effective option
LC Series Actuators

The new LC Series Actuators use a captive type of stepper motor that is integrated with a lead screw and nut. In this design, a screw is attached to a splined shaft that is driven in and out of the motor. The length of the splined shaft is dependent on the length of the motor, allowing for a travel distance of usually only a few inches. LC Actuators are ideal for plungers or pushers in sorting or assembly operations, and is a good choice for applications that lack a mechanism to prevent the lead screw or nut from rotating. Other advantages include:

  • Small motor size
  • Quiet operation
  • Consistent product quality

Download the Datasheet.

LN Series Actuators

The new LN Series Actuators feature a non-captive type of stepper motor combined with a lead screw and nut. In a non-captive design, the nut is incorporated into the motor’s rotor. As the rotor spins, it can either pass the leadscrew through the shaft, or move the motor along the length of the lead screw where the screw is in a fixed position. When both ends of the lead screw are supported, the maximum length of the lead screw can be greater than that of an actuator with external nut, making it a popular option for longer travel. Additional design advantages include:

  • Higher force tolerance than external nut design
  • Increased torque, precision and efficiency
  • More damping power and less vibration and noise
  • Less moving parts for less hazardous operation

Download the Datasheet.

BE Series Actuators

Integrated Ball Screw Linear Actuators

Our new BE Series Actuators feature a ball screw and external nut integrated with a stepper motor. As the motor rotates, the ball nut moves linearly along the screw. These are similar to a lead screws, but offer higher operating frequency and efficiency where recommended. Additional design advantages include:

  • Five frame sizes: NEMA 08, 11, 14, 17, 23
  • Multiple motor lengths, lead screw and nut options with each frame size
  • Over 90% transmission efficiency
  • Applications with high-speed requirements
  • Small axial clearance for high rigidity
  • High hardness and excellent durability

Download the datasheet.

TSM Series Actuators

The new TSM Series Actuators incorporate integrated drivers, encoders, controllers and stepper motors into our ball screw system to provide customers with an all-in-one solution. The closed-loop, step-servo mode provides precise positioning and velocity control for harsh applications and can accommodate a wide range of inertial and frictional load changes. Additional features include:

  • Three frame sizes: NEMA 11, 17, 23
  • Smooth and quiet operation, especially at low speeds
  • High efficiency with minimal heat output
  • High torque output for fast point-to-point moves
  • Motion monitoring and easy tuning for maximum control
MS Series Linear Slide Actuators

Linear Slide Actuators

The new MS Series Linear Slide Actuators utilize a lead screw and standard polymer nut to drive payloads along a 12 or 15 mm profile rail linear guide for higher precision and strength. These cost-effective actuators are compact, easy to assemble, and provide quiet operation. Additional features include:

  • Three frame sizes: NEMA 11, 14, 17
  • Variety of lead options with each frame size
  • Each size has an encoder and brake options

Download the Datasheet.

MLA Series Actuators

Miniature Linear Actuators

Our new MLA Series Miniature Linear Actuators offer a variety of lead screw and ball screw options that can be easily integrated into small-space applications. This helps customers quickly bring new products to market, while reducing labor costs. MLA Actuators are optimal for industries such as medical science, factory automation, biomechanical analysis, and semiconductor fabrication. Additional design advantages include:

  • A variety of size and length options
  • Step Servo motor options for closed-loop control (MLA 28, 35, 42V)
  • Encoder and brake options (MLA 20, 28, 35, 42V)
  • Constant Force™ Anti-Backlash Nut
  • Integrated Step-Servo Technology

Discover your ideal linear motion solution:

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