Enabling complex automation systems to be utilised simply and cost-effectively using the latest generation linear motion technology, as discussed by Nick Brooker, product & marketing manager for SKF's Industrial Division.
The quest for increasing productivity in high-tech industries, incorporating advanced photonics and laser manufacturing techniques, requires extreme accuracy, speed and reliability, often under demanding environmental conditions. In many applications the key to success for OEMs and end users alike is the use of linear motion devices, which combine otherwise standard components to create movement and control systems capable of precision to sub micron levels.
Linear motion technology has evolved into the latest generation of devices that are able to position even heavy loads with sub micron levels of precision while providing reliable service over long and low maintenance operating lives. This new level of performance enables considerable improvements to be made to line efficiency, resulting in a significant impact on productivity and profitability. In addition, as new products require little maintenance, considerable cost savings can also be achieved in ongoing running costs, with resources no longer required to carry out regular, and often hazardous, maintenance checks and repair work.
The latest technology
The latest linear motion technology can be split into guides, used to carry loads efficiently along their axes, actuators, for moving loads, and positioning systems, which can be created by combining a guide and a drive or alternatively sourced as a complete unit.
A wide range of linear guides is now available, including linear bearings, profile rail guides, precision rail guides and cam-roller guides; the type of guide required depends upon the weight of the load needing to be positioned and the level of precision required. A driving element is used to move the object; this is typically in the form of a ball screw or roller screw, depending on the level of positional accuracy and repeatability required.
Linear actuators are also available to move objects in a variety of environments, from aircraft to hospitals. These compact, quiet running units are ideal where space is efficient and discreet solution is required. The products are often specified in relation to load capacity, particularly where positional accuracy is less critical, with a broad range of actuators available to suit the needs of the application. Also available are the telescopic pillars and rotary actuators for expanding the use of technology further, as well as control units that simplify the automation process still further.
The design process
While these latest devices are able to offer excellent performance and versatile functionality, for an efficient automation system to be built, the use of linear motion technology must be considered as early as possible in the machine design process. It is often useful to involve a leading manufacturer such as SKF at this stage as they will be able to offer expert advice and support to ensure that all the relevant factors are taken into account, from the environmental conditions in which the system will need to operate to the load capacity and levels of precision required.
Factors to be considered: an automation solution can be designed to combine high performance with long, low maintenance service life. Accurately specified linear motion systems can increase the efficiency of machinery considerably, for example, enabling quick size adjustments and product changeovers, vital for busy production and processing lines, and positioning or actuating items with outstanding accuracy and regularity.
A solution to suit
With the range of linear motion product types growing all the time, the technology is finding its way into an expanding scope of applications and niche markets. One sector where linear motion technology is showing considerable growth is in healthcare, with electromechanical systems available to control and position heavy equipment such as patient hoists and beds. With reliability critical in applications such as these, due to the extreme serious health and safety consequences with any failure, the latest linear motion technology is now being specified for its durability and low maintenance requirements.
Additionally, a range of miniature systems has also been designed for applications where space is restricted. These products are able to combine compact dimensions with high carrying capacity and high running accuracy, regardless of the size, and are able to offer long reliable service life.
By combining products from the latest generation of linear motion actuators, guides and positioning systems, and through achieving a solid understanding of the requirements of a project, machine builders are now able to create complete automation systems to meet specific requirements for any application. The demanding pressure on engineers to build systems that are more efficient and offer higher performance than ever before, linear motion technology looks set to be an even more crucial element of system design.
For more information contact Andre Weyers, SKF South Africa, +27 (0)11 821 3500, [email protected], www.skf.com
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| Fax: | +27 11 821 3505 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| www: | www.skf.co.za |
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