Copley Motion Systems has developed a direct-drive linear motor made from stainless steel which is ingress-protected to IP69K for use in corrosive or aseptic environments. The company’s marketing director Steve Hickman describes the ServoTube Hygienic motor as “the first linear actuator that can be used in the real-life wash-down applications our customers have to operate in”.

The compact, high-throughput motor is constructed from precision-machined austenitic stainless steel with a smooth surface that avoids dirt traps. It can deliver high peak forces and low inertia, providing highly dynamic movements.

Copley says that motor offers significant performance improvements over existing linear systems. Whereas belt- and ballscrew-driven linear systems need several components, the linear motors require only a standard servo drive and, if necessary, a linear rail for off-axis loads. Servomotors and gearheads are not needed, reducing system complexity and maintenance, and saving space.

Because there is no mechanical linkage between the fixed forcer body and the moving actuator rod, there is no wear. The field-replaceable polymer bearings that support the rod need no lubrication. A position sensor is built into the motor’s body where it is protected from dirt or damage, ensuring that it remains accurate.

The ServoTube Hygienic motor will make its public debut at the SPS/IPC/Drives show in Nuremberg, Germany, in November. Initially, it will be available in two versions, both offering ±400µ position accuracy and 25µ repeatability. The motors deliver peak forces of 744 and 1,860N and are capable of speeds of 4.7 and 2.6m/s. Both can be water cooled, providing up to 70% extra continuous force in applications with high work rates, or for use in environments with high ambient temperatures.

The motors operate from three-phase 600V supplies and provide digital incremental encoder and commutation outputs for use with most standard digital servo drives. 

This IP69K protection allows the motors to be used in any environment where dirt, pressurised washing, and corrosive chemicals make standard linear actuation systems unsuitable.

Copley is owned by the Analogic Corporation.