Hi all,
I’m looking for feedback on whether a particular dual-axis actuator is suitable for an application requiring:
- Linear travel of at least ~13 cm (5"), ideally closer to 15 cm or more
- Extremely slow linear translation, ideally down to ~0.1 mm/hr (it’s okay if this is implemented as discrete motion, not continuous)
- Slow rotary motion, also ideally on the order of <1 rpm, but with fine control
- Repeatability and stability are more important than high load-bearing capacity
The actuator I’m considering is this one. My key concern is whether the resolution and step size are sufficient to achieve the precision required, especially on the linear axis.
Would anyone be able to confirm if this unit—or similar alternatives—would meet these requirements?
Thanks!
Hello @anonymoussnakeplant,
The Festo EPCS series is controlled by a stepper motor featuring an integral electronic drive.
Looking at the datasheet, the EPCS-BS-60-350-12P-A-ST-M-H1-PLK-AA you mentioned has a repeatable accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm.
Also, since it is stepper motor driven, there is no intrinsic slow speed limitation. For example, we could envision a system that advance the motor one step and hour. Instead, there are limitations on how fast it can accelerate and there is also a maximum speed listed as 1.5 M/s2 and 0.079 m/s respectively.
As a next step, I recommend you determine how the drive will interface to your project e.g., digital I/O or I/O link. This may take some time as you will need to determine the protocol once you have this in hand you will be able to see who and when to advance the drive.
Please let us know if we can assist.
Sincerely,
Aaron
