Dynamic industrial processes require sophistication and precision, and processes such as the assembly of circuit boards, positioning of workpieces and sorting of goods all require a high level of automation. SMC product manager, Ernst Smith, says that grippers and actuators are able to fill a broad range of requirements such as thrust, positioning, repeatability, mechanical resilience, geometry and control options. “SMC combines the advantages of pneumatics with the world of electronics in a uniquely comprehensive assortment of electrical actuators, motors and controllers,” he explains. “The standard product range alone provides solutions for countless applications and a wide range of solutions, from miniature and carriage actuators to compact slides, grippers, cylinders and controllers.”
SMC offers stepper and servomotors connected to belt and screw drives for a wide range of applications, as well as motorless actuators for users who prefer to use their own motors and controllers. To enable a connection to higher level fieldbus and SPS systems, the components support current industrial Ethernet protocols.
Solutions for three tiers
SMC organises its assortment of electrical actuators and controllers into three tiers that represent typical user requirements, from easy operation to absolute effectiveness and flexibility. Smith explains that the tiers and levels of flexibility are based around each customer’s unique needs. For customers whose operating conditions rarely change and who prefer quick startup times to high flexibility, SMC’s standard assortment actuators with pre-set actuator parameters are especially easy to use. For those customers who require more complexity, SMC’s progressively programmable actuators with pre-set parameters are able to move into many positions and are connected with a step motor power amplifier (type LECPA). AC servomotor amplifiers (series LECS) provide the highest level of precision in terms of position, speed and force control. The LECY AC servomotor power amplifier was developed for machines and systems with quick and precise axis motion. It is equipped with a Safe Torque Off (STO) function, which prevents the drive from starting up unexpectedly. Such safety functions are becoming increasingly important for machine manufacturers with regard to EN ISO 13849 machine safety guidelines.
The LE range
Smith says that the range of electrical actuators in SMC’s LE series has an impressive number of different components. Step motors and servomotors can be found alongside screw and belt drives for various motor installation positions, and guidance systems such as sliding guides, cross-rolling guides and recirculating ball bearing guides round off the assortment. Each of the series, over a dozen in total, contains numerous products with various sizes and specifications as well as additional equipment options. These include, for instance, an integrated motor brake and cleanroom-suitable versions. “SMC has designed the range over time to meet a wide range of customer requirements, and today the great product variety covers the needs of most industrial applications.” he concludes.
Control without complexity
Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
In an era where precision, performance and smart control define industrial success, the right driver can make all the difference. At Axiom Hydraulics, we’ve seen firsthand how the Sun Hydraulics XMD series transforms hydraulic systems, from mining and construction to agriculture and automation.
Read more...Servo motor series for explosive environments with expanded certification Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Parker Hannifin’s ongoing commitment to safety and performance in hazardous environments is evident in the new certifications and product improvements for its EY and EX servo motor series.
Read more...Industrial gear units for mixing and agitating processes Bearing Man Group t/a BMG
Motion Control & Drives
Nord Drive Systems encompass modular drive configurations that ensure optimum performance of mechanical speed control for specific applications in almost every industry.
Read more...A seamless partnership driving smart material flow Omron Electronics
Motion Control & Drives
OMRON and Interroll have launched a flexible conveyor module designed for seamless integration with autonomous mobile robots. This innovative solution enables efficient material handling, enhancing productivity in various industrial settings.
Read more...Building resilience in extreme environments ACTOM Electrical Machines
Motion Control & Drives
The petrochemical and oil and gas sectors operate in unforgiving environments. In this high-stakes industry, operational efficiency is vital, and unplanned downtime can have severe consequences. To thrive in this demanding landscape, a proactive and sophisticated approach to maintenance is no longer an option, but a necessity.
Read more...Reducing the risk of sewage spills
Motion Control & Drives
The UK government has announced plans to impose tougher penalties on water companies in England and Wales that fail to prevent sewage discharges into rivers and seas. David Strain, technical director at the automation systems specialist, Technidrive explains how solutions like variable speed drives and smart monitoring systems can help water companies reduce the risk of sewage spills and ensure compliance.
Read more...Bearing failure analysis transforms operations of battery manufacturer SKF South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Persistent bearing failure on a centralised extraction fan motor was negatively impacting operational efficiency for a leading battery manufacturer in East Africa. SKF Kenya conducted a bearing analysis and solved the problem.
Read more...Why turbomachinery should break free from vendor lock-in Schneider Electric South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Today’s modern turbomachinery control systems form an important of operational efficiency, be it in heavy industries, traditional power generation or renewables such as hydroelectric facilities. Independence is the name of the game, and turbomachinery stands to gain lot from this newfound freedom.
Read more...Bearing strategy maintains production for cement manufacturer SKF South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
SKF South Africa and its Authorised Distributor, Bolt & Engineering Distributors Klerksdorp successfully remanufactured a double-row tapered roller bearing assembly for a vertical mill within a two-week timeframe, offering the customer a cost-effective 50% cost-saving alternative which keeps the plant operational while they await the supply of new bearings.
Read more...Lubrication solutions for cranes
Motion Control & Drives
Fuchs Lubricants South Africa provides a comprehensive range of lubrication solutions that meet the specific needs of mobile cranes.
printer friendly version