Non-Captive Lead Screw Linear Actuators
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Non-captive lead screw linear actuators are motorized assemblies that use programmable stepper motors and threaded lead screws that pass completely through the motor assembly to move and accurately position loads along a straight path. A drive nut integrated into the motor rotor converts motor rotation into linear motion, allowing either the motor assembly or the lead screw to travel linearly, depending on the mounting configuration.
In one configuration, a non-rotating lead screw is held stationary while the rotating internal nut drives the motor assembly and its attached load along the screw. Alternatively, the motor can remain stationary while its rotating internal nut drives the non-rotating lead screw axially through the motor, moving and positioning a load attached to the screw's end. Both configurations accommodate longer travel distances, compact installations, and flexible mounting arrangements.
Unlike captive lead screw actuators, which use an internally guided, non-rotating screw that extends and retracts from a stationary motor for shorter push-pull strokes, non-captive actuators allow the screw to pass completely through the motor without an internal captive guide mechanism.
Non-captive actuators also differ from external-nut lead screw actuators, which use a rotating screw extending from one side of a stationary motor and a separate, non-rotating, load-carrying nut that travels along the screw. In contrast, through-motor non-captive actuators integrate the drive nut within the motor rotor, allowing either the motor assembly or the lead screw to move linearly.
External linear guides are commonly used to support applied loads, maintain alignment, increase stiffness, reduce screw deflection, and minimize wear on the screw, nut, and motor bearings.
Available in NEMA 08, 11, 14, 17, and 23 stepper motor frame sizes, depending on the model, PBC Linear non-captive lead screw actuators are used in automated machinery, robotics, packaging equipment, material handling, and other applications requiring controlled linear travel and accurate load positioning.
PBC Linear Non-Captive Lead Screw Actuator Product Lines
| Feature | LN Series | LS Series |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Standard non-captive lead screw actuator | Anti-backlash non-captive lead screw actuator |
| Drive Nut | Standard integrated drive nut | Constant Force Technology™ anti-backlash nut |
| Primary Advantage | Compact through-motor design and flexible installation | Reduced backlash and improved positioning repeatability |
| NEMA Stepper Motor Sizes | 08, 11, 14, 17, 23 | 11, 14, 17, 23 |
| Lead Screw Options | Multiple metric and imperial diameters and leads | Metric and imperial screws with optional PTFE coating |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a non-captive lead screw linear actuator?
How does a non-captive lead screw actuator work?
What is the difference between captive and non-captive lead screw actuators?
What is the difference between non-captive and external-nut lead screw actuators?
Does the lead screw rotate in a non-captive actuator?
What are non-captive lead screw actuators used for?
Do non-captive lead screw actuators require external linear guides?
What NEMA motor sizes are available for non-captive lead screw actuators?
What is the difference between LN and LS Series lead screw actuators?
What is backlash in a lead screw actuator?
What are the advantages of non-captive lead screw actuators?
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