White PaperRobotics, Automation & Control
How Integrated Linear Actuators Simplify Design and Elevate Performance
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Today's industrial machines demand faster, more efficient designs. Engineers must choose between traditional external motor actuators and integrated servo motor units. While traditional designs offer flexibility and longer strokes, integrated actuators deliver compact form factors, lighter weight, superior rigidity and better protection. This white paper explores why integrated linear actuators are becoming the preferred solution for streamlined performance and enhanced reliability.
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Overview
The document discusses the advantages of integrated linear actuators over traditional actuator designs in industrial applications. Integrated actuators combine the servo motor and actuator into a single unit, resulting in a more compact, streamlined, and space-efficient configuration. This design enhances performance by placing the center of gravity along the actuator’s center axis, which is beneficial for applications requiring precise and efficient movement, such as end-of-arm tooling (EOAT).
One of the key benefits of integrated actuators is their ability to meet the demands for faster, more efficient, and simpler machine designs. They offer improved rigidity, greater protection against environmental factors, and reduced maintenance requirements. The fewer components and joints in integrated actuators lead to better ingress protection, making them suitable for harsh environments with dust, debris, and moisture.
The document highlights real-world applications of integrated actuators across various industries. For instance, an automotive manufacturer utilized a CSWX ServoWeld® Actuator for resistance spot welding, which improved weld quality and production throughput due to its superior sensitivity and reduced downtime. In the pharmaceutical sector, an IMA-S actuator was provided for a filling and packaging machine, meeting stringent hygienic requirements with its enclosed design and stainless steel construction.
Additionally, the document emphasizes the sustainability benefits of integrated actuators. They contribute to energy savings, reduce the need for lubricants, and align with sustainable manufacturing practices by minimizing resource consumption and extending operational life.
The choice between ball screw and roller screw configurations is also discussed, with ball screws being suitable for high-speed, low-force applications, while roller screws excel in high-force, heavy-duty scenarios. This customization allows manufacturers to select the best actuator type based on their specific needs.
Overall, the document positions integrated linear actuators as increasingly preferred components in modern machine designs, offering a host of benefits that enhance performance, reliability, and efficiency in various industrial applications.