Simple approach to motion control

The first new product is the guided EPCO electric cylinder – EPCO-G – which provides simple positioning with strokes of up to 400mm. With an integrated guide unit, EPCO-G can withstand high axial and radial loads which means it can be utilised in a wider selection of handling systems.

The cylinder is available in three sizes, can achieve speeds to 500mm/s and provides high stiffness in a low weight system, giving high performance over a long service life. It has a life-time lubrication which means it is maintenance-free. Mounting and installation are also said to be exceptionally easy, so engineers can save time and costs associated with set up and maintenance. The guide unit can also be ordered as a single unit for easy retrofitting to existing EPCO cylinders.

The second addition to the OMS product family is the ERMO – an electric rotary drive that meets the same high performance criteria as Festo’s previous rotary drives but at a more attractive price. Suitable for compact process stations and pick and place applications due to its angle flexibility and rotation capabilities, the ERMO is easy to commission, allowing machine builders to ‘plug and work’ instantly.

With a maximum angular velocity of 600°/sec, torque of 5Nm and repetition accuracy of between ± 0.05° and ± 0.1°, the ERMO electric rotary drive can be used for a range of rotating, placing, turning and pivot drive handling systems. 

"The large diameter of the bearing allows for high offset loads to be carried reliably, and centre thru’ holes allows cables and tubing to be added with ease. The ERMO has the same interface as a pneumatic rotary actuator, meaning all parts can be assembled seamlessly, saving both time and money for machine builders and engineers implementing new systems,” says Nigel Dawson, electric drives product manager at Festo.

Also, the ELGR linear belt drive axis is now available with a highly corrosion resistant chrome rod and bearing material. It is said to be an exceptionally cost-effective solution for feedforces up to 35kg and is available as a completely mounted sub assembly enabling machine builders to save time and costs with commissioning and set up. A cost effective motor package comes as part of the axis, making this a suitable system for a wide variety of handling applications, where simple linear movements are required.