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Factors to Consider When Choosing an Actuator of Four Feet or Less

From NB Corporation of America

Whether for packaging, life sciences, office equipment or factory automation, smooth motion, fast accelerations and a high degree of accuracy are hallmark requirements for linear movement actuators. Increasingly, miniaturization has added the additional requirement of compactness. One system that can meet all of the above requirements in its conversion of motor torque to linear thrust is the single axis ball screw actuator. Ball screws convert rotary motion to linear motion, or torque to thrust, and vice versa. The ball screw actuator is a combination of a ball screw on which, to eliminate backlash, a slide block or nut's movement is guided by recirculating steel balls that roll between the block and raceways of guide rails.

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Products & Services
Linear Slides and Linear Stages
Linear slides are simple linear motion devices composed of a stationary base and a moving carriage. Linear stages are slides with a drive mechanism that provide controlled, precise positioning along a linear axis.
Ball Splines
Ball splines provide nearly friction-free linear motion while simultaneously transmitting torsional loads. The path of the bearing balls is straight, not helical, which allows for a very efficient coupling device suitable for a variety of applications.
Ball Slides
Ball slides are simple linear motion devices that provide smooth linear motion, accurately controlled by the rotation of the drive mechanism. 
Crossed Roller Slides
Crossed roller slides are simple linear motion devices that consist of a stationary base and a moving carriage. The rollers are crossed at a 90° angle in an alternating fashion and are enclosed in the rails, which have a machined V-shaped groove to support the rollers.
Product Announcements
Bishop-Wisecarver Corporation - PSD80 - Precision Screw Driven Actuator
Precision Screw Driven Actuator from Bishop-Wisecarver (NEW PSD80). The PSD Precision Screw Driven actuator is a linear motion system that combines Hepco's Herculane® wheel technology with a lead or... (read more)
NB Corporation of America - NB Offers Ball Splines That Eliminate Backlash
NB Ball Splines have recirculating steel balls on the side of the outer race that are designed for high speed rotation and to eliminate backlash. For applications that may require both linear motion... (read more)
Aerotech, Inc. - ACT Linear Motor Actuator
The ACT is a high performance, cost-effective linear-servomotor-driven actuator that is faster and more accurate than a ball screw or belt-drive without the costly, time-consuming maintenance ball... (read more)
IKO International, Inc. - High Rigidity Precision Ball Slide
High Rigidity Precision Ball Slide BWU is a compact linear motion rolling guide for limited stroke length. The unit incorporates two rows of steel balls in four point contact with the raceways so that... (read more)
NB Corporation of America - High Precision Slide Ways from NB
NB Slide Ways are non-recirculating linear motion bearings used primarily in optical and measurement equipment where high precision movement is required. The SV style consists of 2 roller cages with... (read more)
Exlar - GSM Series Linear Actuators
The GSM Series of linear actuators from Exlar provides a cost effective solution, perfect for replacing ball screw actuators. This compact design incorporates Exlar's patented roller screw technology... (read more)
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