Motion Control & Drives


Tsubaki linear zip chain actuators

March 2015 Motion Control & Drives

BMG’s range of mechanical power cylinders includes eco-friendly Tsubaki zip chain linear actuators that utilise the revolutionary new zip chain concept.

These compact actuators, which have been designed for high-speed, high-frequency operation, use about one thirtieth of the energy of equivalent hydraulic actuators. A multi-point stopping capability and a multi-level position setting for easy position control ensure increased productivity and reduced energy usage in diverse industries including production lines for automobiles, semi-conductors and LCDs. They are also designed for the medical sector and for home automation.

This zip chain actuator encompasses two lengths of chain that lock together like a zipper, to form a single rigid column which is capable of pushing and pulling. When they withdraw and uncouple, they coil back compactly into plastic storage cases. This design offers significant space savings compared with conventional linear actuator mechanisms, which means units are suitable for installation in cramped space applications including transfer and lifting equipment. Another advantage is the various installation options allowing units to be positioned vertically, horizontally or hanging.

Proportional motor and sprocket rotational speeds ensure constant operational speed. This allows the easy multi-point stopping and multi-level positioning capability required. The use of the zip chain ensures high-speed operation (a maximum of 1000 mm/sec) compared to conventional screw, hydraulic or compressed air actuators. The integration of dedicated sprockets ensures high efficiency in all applications.

For more information contact Carlo Beukes, Bearing Man Group, +27 (0)31 576 6200, [email protected], www.bmgworld.net



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