Posted to News on 26th Oct 2018, 17:05
An easier way to migrate from pneumatics to all-electric motion
Quality, cycle times, profits and energy efficiency. These four factors are critical to every company with a production function. If you are using pneumatics, one option is to replace pneumatic cylinder actuators and go 'all-electric' - and it is even better if the motion control system is also simple. With Dunkermotoren's new Drive Assistant all you have to do is fill in the blanks.
Anything that needs to be pushed, pulled, extruded, dispensed, pressed, diverted, metered, throttled, formed, fastened or filled will likely use an actuator in the production area. Making every aspect of these control tasks easier has been a mission for Dunkermotoren. The aim is to make it easier to change over, program, integrate, operate and install.
Dunkermotoren supplies a full range of linear actuators with thrusts up to 5400N; stroke lengths up to 800mm and speeds of more than 5m/s are possible. All actuators can have multiple positions with separate speeds, ramps and controlled forces. The CASM and ST ranges of linear actuator are highly suitable for applications requiring precise and reliable repetitive motion.
Integrated controllers
Using Dunkermotoren's Drive Assistant, the machine can use its existing I/O to control the motion and, because the controllers are integrated into the motors, there is no requirement for extra panel space to accommodate motion controllers or servo drives. This makes it possible to complete the upgrade without the high cost of hardware and complex integration, programming and operation. Once the relevant parameters are entered, only power and control signals are required for operation in standalone mode.
In common with Dunkermotoren's existing BG Series of DC brushless rotary servo motors, the CASM and ST11 range of linear actuators have an integrated controller option that offers ease of integration with significantly reduced and simplified wiring. These actuators feature a range of analogue and digital inputs and outputs, with the option of also having CAN, Profibus and EtherCAT communications protocols available as standard.
The limited flexibility in performance and capability of pneumatic actuators is a major disadvantage, which is why they are often replaced by electric linear actuators. This is especially the case when more than two positions are required. All-electric alternatives offer a far superior route to mid-stroke positioning, accurately controlling velocity, positions that need to be changed via software, as well as better dynamics and lifespan.
From packaging and processing to factory automation, the linear actuator range from Dunkermotoren fits many different applications and is particularly suitable for replacing pneumatics in all-electric machines due to the efficient, low-maintenance and environmentally sound features.
Follow the link for more information about linear actuators from Dunkermotoren.
