Contents
Introduction to Electromechanics
1. What is Electromechanics?
Electromechanics is a type of linear drive technology that enables precise movements and efficient power transmission in a variety of applications. With the movement of an electromechanical drive, loads can be lifted, lowered, and pushed.
Electromechanical linear drives convert the rotational movement of an electric motor into a linear pull-push movement. Three main components are required for this:
- An electric motor for driving
- A gearbox (for rotational movement)
- A lead screw (for linear movement)
Electromechanical drives are suitable for both light and heavy applications across most industries. In many cases, they're a better solution than hydraulic and pneumatic actuators.
If you want to know what other types of drive technology exist, read this article.
2. Seven advantages of electromechanical drives
By electrical control, they enable high precision and repeatability.
Due to their high precision and repeatability, they're the ideal choice for automation technology.
They are versatile and can be used in areas such as handling, medical technology, cutting systems, positioning systems, and machine tools.
They have low wear and a long service life.
In comparison to hydraulic systems, they're more environmentally friendly because no hydraulic fluid is required.
They enable efficient acceleration and deceleration, resulting in rapid motion sequences.
They enable the automation of motion sequences, such as opening sliding doors or skylights.
2. What types of electromechanical drives are there?
Screw Jacks
Screw jacks are a type of electromechanical drive technology that achieves precise and powerful lifting and positioning movements. In total, we offer 4 different types of lead screw jacks:
- Cubic screw jack
- Classic screw jack
- High-performance screw jack
- High-speed screw jack
Find out what specifically distinguishes these different screw jacks and where they are used.
Linear Chain
A special drive product in electromechanics is the linear chain, which enables linear movements by transmitting pushing forces along a chain. It can both pull and push. The following points characterize the linear chain:
- Durable for temperatures up to 550 °C (1022 °F)
- Standard lifting speed of up to 250 mm/s
- Compact design
Learn everything about the basics of linear chains and their applications here.
MINI Actuator
Another electromechanical linear drive is the MINI cylinder. It stands out due to its compact geometry in the shape of a piston. The fact that the motor is integrated into the housing makes it one of the most compact drives in electromechanics. Its features include:
- Water-resistant
- Lubrication-free
- Space-saving
Learn more about the functions and application areas of the MINI cylinder.
Electric Cylinder
The electric cylinder is an electromechanical actuator that is electrically powered. With its two different versions, it addresses various drive challenges. Its advantages include:
- Energy-efficient
- Specialized for narrow spaces
- High precision
Discover what makes the electric cylinder unique, how it works, and in which situations it's used.
Screw Drives
Both trapezoidal and ball screw spindles can be used in electromechanical drives. These are manufactured in-house at GROB with the highest precision and quality. Their advantages include:
- Cost-effective
- High speed (with ball screws)
- High self-locking (with trapezoidal screws)
Learn here what screw drives are and what differences exist between these two types of spindles.
4. Typical applications of electromechanical drives in practice
Height-adjustable desks
Linear Actuators in height-adjustable work desks enable the lifting and lowering of the tabletop by converting motor movement into linear motion, allowing for precise and quiet adjustments.
Motorized window hatches in factory buildings
Linear actuators in motorized skylights in factory buildings enable the automatic opening and closing of the windows to improve ventilation and temperature control. A typical application for this can be found here.
Lifting equipment
Electromechanical drives in lifting equipment convert electrical energy into mechanical motion to safely lift and lower loads. They provide precise control, high load capacity, and efficiency.
Stage height adjustment
Electromechanical drives such as MINIs or Tower Chains are used for stage height adjustment to lift or lower the stage precisely and reliably. They ensure smooth movement and allow for flexible adjustments to different stage requirements. A typical application can be found here.
Adjustment of a parabolic antenna
Electromechanical drives such as screw jacks are used for adjusting parabolic antennas to enable precise alignment and tracking. They convert motor movement into linear motion, allowing the antenna to be positioned accurately to ensure optimal signal strength.
Scissor lift tables
Linear chains are used in scissor lift tables to enable smooth lifting movements. They efficiently transmit the driving force, ensuring that the table is raised or lowered safely and precisely. You can read about such an application here.
Drive of metal presses
Electromechanical drives are used in metal presses to precisely control the pressing motion. This is done, for example, in sheet metal processing, joining techniques, or in the production of components.
Control of filling processes
Electromechanical drives are used in the control of filling processes to ensure precise dosing and movements. They enable the accurate control of pumps or valves that direct the filling material into containers. These drives ensure consistent filling amounts, increase efficiency, and enhance automation in production.
Positioning of lift platforms
Screw jacks are used in the positioning of lift platforms to precisely raise and lower the platform. They convert the rotational movement of a motor into linear motion, enabling smooth and controlled height adjustment of the lift platform. This ensures safety and efficiency when lifting vehicles or other heavy loads.
Height adjustment of conveyor screws
Linear chains or electric cylinders are used in the height adjustment of conveyor screws to precisely adjust the position and angle of inclination of the screw. These drives allow for flexible control to optimize material flow and achieve different conveyor heights.
Locking of offshore wind farms
Screw jacks are used in the transportation of wind turbine nacelles to precisely lift and lower them during installation or maintenance. They enable the nacelles to be raised into the correct position on the tower and safely lowered during maintenance.
Automatization
Electromechanical drives facilitate automated processes, improve production speed, and increase accuracy by responding to control commands and performing synchronized movements.
For industrial applications
Electromechanical drives are used in industrial applications to precisely and efficiently control mechanical movements. They are utilized for tasks such as lifting, conveying, positioning, and automating processes.
Height adjustment of medical beds
Linear actuators are used in the height adjustment of medical beds to allow for precise positioning of the bed. They enable the surface to be gently and quietly raised or lowered, which is important for both patients and medical personnel.
Adjustment of solar panels
Electromechanical drives are used in the adjustment of solar panels to align their tilt angle and orientation with the position of the sun. This maximizes solar exposure and optimizes energy generation.
Positioning in harvesting machines and tractors
Electromechanical drives are used in positioning tasks in mobile harvesting machines and tractors to enable precise adjustments of working implements. They control the positioning of mowers, plows, or other attachments, allowing for optimal working heights and angles. This improves the efficiency of the machines and ensures more accurate processing of the fields.
5. How do you choose the right electromechanical drive for your application?
When dimensioning an electromechanical drive, consider the following parameters: speed, duty cycle, load, available space, and environmental conditions. Before selecting a linear drive, you should at least review these four parameters:
1. Required Load
What is the load to be moved? This determines which components such as the motor, spindle, gearbox, and bearings will be used.
2. Duty Cycle
The duty cycle affects the lifespan of the components. Depending on the duty cycle, the linear drive must be appropriately dimensioned.
3. Available Space
Is the available space limited? Or does the designer have complete freedom in the design?
4. Environmental Conditions
Is the drive situated outdoors or indoors? What are the temperature conditions? How high is the humidity?
Here is a quick guide on how to choose the right drive system with 10 questions.
Here you will find detailed explanations with calculations for the respective products.
19. If you're a designer looking for quick access to CAD data
As a designer, you're familiar with the pressure of needing to come up with brilliant solutions quickly and requiring the right CAD data. On our website, you'll find all the CAD data for our products in various formats. With just a click, you can conveniently and swiftly download any drawing.
20. What GROB Antriebstechnik stands for
With decades of experience in drive technology and a strong focus on innovation and quality, we take pride in offering our customers the best solutions. Contact us today to explore the potential use of an electric linear actuator for your application or to receive a non-binding quote for your customized linear chain.
FAQs
What types of linear drives are there?
There are mechanical, electromechanical, direct electric linear actuators (linear motors), as well as hydraulic and pneumatic linear actuators. We utilize electromechanical actuators in our drive solutions.
Which types of linear drive technology there are - GROB GmbH chevron_rightHow do electromechanical linear actuators differ from hydraulic or pneumatic ones?
Electric linear drives use electrical energy for motion, whereas hydraulic and pneumatic drives use fluids or gases. Electric drives are more precise and efficient.
Can I attach my own motor to the cylinder?
No, the MINI and linear cylinders are complete systems and cannot be expanded with other motors.
What does the IP66 protection class mean for actuators?
The IP66 classification indicates that the actuator is dust-tight and protected against strong jets of water. Ideal for applications requiring robust protection.
What's a linear actuator?
A linear actuator converts rotational motion into linear motion. It is powered by electric motors. However, linear movements can also be achieved through hydraulic or pneumatic actuators. Electric linear actuators are used for more precise movements.
In what environments are actuators with IP66 useful?
Actuators with IP66 are suitable for harsh environments such as industrial settings, outdoor use, or applications requiring water cleaning.
Do actuators with IP66 require additional maintenance?
The IP66 protection class significantly reduces the ingress of dust and water, minimizing maintenance requirements. However, regular inspection is advisable.
What options for spindle mounting (head variants) are available for spindle drives?
For the spindle end, the standard range offers options including threaded end, articulated head, ball joint head, flange plate, bearing flange plate, and pin. You can find corresponding dimensions in the General Catalog 2023 (grob-antriebstechnik.de)
How does the linear actuator work?
Typically, it's an electric linear drive. It consists of three main components: spindle, motor, and gearbox. When a signal is received, the motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, moving the gears of the gearbox. These rotate the spindle, causing the spindle nut to move outward or inward.
What are linear actuators used for?
Linear actuators are ubiquitous: in homes, offices, hospitals, factories, agricultural settings, and many other places. In hospitals and medical centers, you'll find linear actuators used to adjust patient tables, hospital beds, or operating tables. Other applications are in industry, agriculture, construction, and industrial automation.
Want to learn more about electromechanics? Here are additional articles on specific application examples
You can find all application cases on our blog:
Want to know more?
How to choose the ideal Lifting Element
Not sure which electromechanical lifting element best suits your needs? Check out our practical guide to discover what really matters when making your choice: from environmental conditions and load requirements to stroke length, precision, maintenance, and lifespan.
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