In many applications, electric actuators are typically an attractive alternative to hydraulic or pneumatic systems. However, this approach often means adding a more complex control system — particularly if the application involves high loads and requires a single actuator without a pneumatic or hydraulic network. In these circumstances, achieving peak performance requires a holistic approach that includes the motor and drive system. This blog post will explain what makes high-performance E-actuators ideal for installations where pneumatic or hydraulic networks are otherwise unavailable.

Electric Actuator Advantages

Unlike hydraulic or pneumatic actuators, electric actuators don’t disperse or leak contaminants, making them a much cleaner option. They also require fewer external components. Additional benefits include constant cycle times, quiet operation, low maintenance and a long operating life. One such electric actuator family — Automationware’s Mech Series — offers these advantages in high-performance, high load units that are well-suited for demanding applications such as compaction and recycling systems, plastic injection molding presses or metal bending systems.

Mech Series E-actuators feature an advanced ball screw transmission system that allows them to handle high dynamic loads over time and high-thrust movements with speeds up to 2 meters per second. Mech Force and Mech Extreme actuators are available with either brushless or high-speed stepper motors coupled to gearboxes. Together with integrated encoders, this design creates a simpler, streamlined system that provides totally controlled movement. Applications requiring a single actuator without a pneumatic or hydraulic network benefit from the Mech Series’:

• High load capabilities. Mech Extreme has a dynamic load rating of over 750,000 Newton for high-load applications and is designed with extreme durability in mind.
• Precision and control. The electronic driving system with an integrated encoder in a servo motor ensures precise, repeatable motion with exceptional controllability. In fact, Mech Series electric actuators can achieve positioning accuracy to ±0.01 millimeter. These characteristics are important in injection molding, where the smallest variations can compromise the final product, or when ensuring efficiency in waste handling processes like shredding and crushing.
• Programmability. Electric actuators are programmable, so users have more flexibility when, for example, making different parts on the same molding machine or in metal bending applications that may have multiple tube sizes or bending patterns.
• Reduced maintenance. Unlike hydraulic systems with fluids that must be changed or compressed air systems that require water removal, E-actuators have few parts that can fail and require very little maintenance. The Mech Series leverages Automationware’s AwareVu technology which provides continuous operational feedback to alert users in advance about vibrations and maintenance needs.

An Effective Combination of High-Performance Features

When an application calls for a single actuator and compressor, electrically driven actuators like Automationware’s Mech Series with an integrated motor, drive and feedback sensors deliver an effective combination of precision, high load handling, space savings, programmability and low maintenance to address most any challenge and ensure optimal performance.

IKO is the U.S. distribution partner for AutomationWare. You can download our brochure on Mech Series E-actuators at www.automationwareusa.com, or contact IKO at ikoaw_usa@ikonet.co.jp for more information.

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