Laboratory automation relies on cleanliness and linear motion to move samples, cameras, dispensing heads, pipettes, trays, and test fixtures with precision and repeatability. As labs increase throughput in drug discovery, clinical diagnostics, biotechnology, and quality testing, motion systems must operate accurately in compact spaces while minimizing noise, vibration, wear debris, and maintenance. PBC Linear provides linear guides and actuators that help lab automation equipment run faster, cleaner, and more consistently in applications such as rapid diagnostic testing, precision X-ray imaging, laser positioning, and pick-and-place gantry systems, where reliable motion directly affects test accuracy, productivity, and reproducibility.
Lab automation inspection and dispensing system
Automated lab and pharmaceutical systems use linear motion to position samples, cameras, dispensing heads, and handling mechanisms with speed and repeatability. In this example, Manchac Technologies needed a more reliable XY gantry for its compact Dosis L60 prescription dispensing system, which sorts, counts, fills, and labels up to 60 oral medications without user intervention.
The original contact truck and rail system suffered from binding, vibration-related misalignment, and messy lubrication that created contamination concerns around sensitive prescriptions. PBC Linear’s Redi-Rail® cam roller linear guides provided a cleaner, more reliable solution with sealed bearings, corrosion-resistant construction, oil-impregnated wipers, and smooth travel over accumulated pill dust and particulate. After installation, the system saw a 20–30% reduction in motor current, higher travel speeds without chatter or binding, and improved reliability for field operation.
Minimally invasive surgical equipment
Minimally invasive surgical systems depend on smooth, predictable linear motion to help extend a surgeon’s manual precision, control, and dexterity. In this example, a major medical equipment manufacturer was using a linear guide system with recirculating ball bearing slides that experienced stick-slip, creating sporadic motion and inconsistent performance in a precision medical application.
PBC Linear recommended a customized precision cam-roller Redi-Rail® linear guide system to eliminate the stick-slip issue and provide consistent, smooth, quiet travel. By improving motion stability and reducing unwanted variation, the Redi-Rail® solution helped support the accuracy, reliability, and controlled movement required in advanced surgical equipment.
Medical research equipment handling
Medical research facilities often need compact material handling systems that allow technicians to move heavy equipment safely in confined spaces. In this example, a Minnesota-based medical research facility needed a better way for repair technicians to lift 200 lb CPU units in and out of computer cabinets without relying on manual handling.
PBC Linear recommended a compact vertical lift system built with Hevi-Rail™ linear guide components, similar to a mobile die lift table. The system provided the load capacity and stability needed to raise and position the CPU units while remaining cost-effective and easy to move within the facility. By eliminating the need for technicians to manually lift heavy CPUs, the solution helped reduce injury risk while improving service efficiency.
Target Market Applications Linear Motion Solutions in Lab Automation