New & Noteworthy
Valve Terminal Optimizes Machine Performance
Other new products include a linear guide for rapid acceleration and an actuator for hygienic processes.
Image courtesy of Festo Corp.
Miniature Linear Motion Guide for Rapid Acceleration Applications
Model AHR is a miniature linear motion guide for applications, such as semiconductor chip production, requiring durability, high speed, rapid acceleration, and low sliding resistance. Its mounting dimensions make it interchangeable with existing linear guides that adopt a two-row Gothic-arch groove structure.
With a newly developed ball-circulation mechanism, the guide achieves a maximum speed of 5 meters per second and a maximum acceleration of 300 meters per second squared. This model has been particularly optimized for use in semiconductor post-processing equipment, such as die bonders and test handlers. It can also be used as the spindle guide in chip mounters.
The low sliding resistance is made possible by THK’s core technology, the four circular arc grooves and two-point contact structure.
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THK America
www.thk.com
Valve Terminal Optimizes Machine Performance
The VTUX valve terminal can serve as I/O, remote I/O, and decentralized I/O. These compact and rugged IP65/67-rated terminals can be located anywhere on a machine. The unit’s modularity results in less inventory and lower overhead costs.
The valve terminal is both compact and lightweight, an advantage for end-of-arm tooling and conserving space on a machine or in a control cabinet. It is made from a high-performance polymer so rugged and durable that the unit can be placed in welding cells.
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The key to the terminal’s flexibility is its modular design. For high flow rates up to 670 liters per minute, a high flow subbase is used, and for space saving needs, the compact subbase. A single valve model can be used for both subbases, which simplifies ordering, stocking and support. High-flow and compact sub-basses of one or four valve positions can be mixed and matched on a terminal. VTUX terminals can have up to 128 valves with up to 128 solenoid coils. The VTUX also features vacuum capability.
The device offers a platform for configuring up to 16 vacuum channels per terminal. The platform enables bidirectional communication from the PLC to the vacuum generator. Vacuum and ejector pulses can be individually controlled. The vacuum delivers large suction volume flows and can be combined with valves. Parameters can be changed via teach-in from the PLC during operation. The device has an integrated vacuum sensor for continuous monitoring of actual values, and there is a parameter-based air-saving function. The system monitors vacuum for early detection of faults or errors during operation.
The electronics side of the terminal offers the same flexibility as the pneumatics. For example, engineers can add multiple analog or digital I/O modules, including I/O-Link. The modular concept continues through to the method of communication between controller and terminal. The choices include the new Festo Automation Platform (AP) for backplane-speed communication in all top communication protocols. All AP-based modules appear to the control engineer to be under a single IP address, simplifying commissioning and allowing smaller and less expensive PLCs to be specified. Additional communication modules include IO-Link, AP-I for decentralized I/O, and multipin connector.
Festo Corp.
www.festo.com
Electric Linear Actuator for Hygienic Applications
The Exlar GTF electric linear actuator has been built with FDA-approved materials and finishes to meet the standards of the European Hygienic Engineering Design Group. Designed for automation systems in the food, beverage, packaging, and pharmaceutical industries, the actuator can help manufacturers achieve hygienic certifications, such as USDA, 3-A and BISSC.
With a variety of frame sizes and mounting options, the actuator and integrated motor are completely sealed and smooth, reducing “harborage” and keeping out contaminants even during light wash-down cleaning.
The actuator offers numerous configuration options, including an IP69K wash-down variant, which is critical for motion applications with potential food contact. Like all Exlar actuators, the GTF features a high-performance inverted roller screw, a servo-driven design, and compact form.
Three models are available with nominal stroke ranges of 80 to 300, 100 to 450, or 150 to 300 millimeters. Peak force ranges from 5,336 to 30,784 newtons. Maximum speed ranges from 953 to 1,270 millimeters per second.
Curtiss-Wright Corp.
www.cw-actuation.com
High-Force Electric Linear Actuators
Tolomatic has added five new models to its RSX family of high-force electric linear actuators. The new sizes expand the RSX’s capabilities to include forces up to 66,000 pounds. These high-force actuators can take the place of hydraulic cylinders and thereby eliminating leaks and improving system performance across many industries. The actuators are equipped with high-precision planetary roller screws or ballscrews for longer life in harsh environments. These actuators also feature a Type III hard-coat anodized aluminum housing and optional IP67 protection.
Tolomatic Inc.
www.tolomatic.com
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