Linear motors – find manufacturers and suppliers

Linear motors are special electric motors that generate a direct linear movement instead of the usual rotating movement of conventional motors.

They are used in a variety of applications where precise, fast and noiseless movement is required.

Below you will find the operating principle of linear motors, an overview of the types and their areas of application, their advantages and the challenges of using them:

Functional principle of linear motors:

A linear motor consists of a primary part (usually a winding system) and a secondary part (often a permanent magnet). When an electric current is applied, a force is generated that moves the secondary part in a straight line.

Types of linear motors:

1. Iron core linear motors:
   These motors offer the highest force density and are suitable for applications requiring high feed forces.
   However, they have a cogging force, which can affect uniformity at low speeds.
2. Short stator linear motor:
   The coil section is short and moves over a long magnetic track.
3. Long stator linear motor:
   The stator is laid over the entire track, which is particularly used for long distances such as in conveyor technology
4. Ironless (iron-free) linear motors:
   Due to the absence of iron in the primary part, there is no cogging.
   They offer very high dynamics, smooth running and precision, ideal for fast positioning tasks.
5. Tubular (cylindrical) linear motors:
   They are constructed like a round rod, often with IP67 protection, and are well suited as a direct replacement for pneumatic cylinders due to their compact design.
6. Flat linear motors:
   These motors have a flat design, which makes them compact.
   They can consist of a short primary part and a long secondary part (magnetic track).
7. Piezoelectric linear motors:
   Use the piezo effect for extremely precise positioning in the nanometer range

Areas of application for linear motors:

1. Industrial automation:
Linear motors are used in production systems for fast and precise positioning of workpieces, e.g. in pick-and-place robots or CNC machines.

2. Transportation and logistics:
Linear motors are used in conveyor systems or sorting systems to move goods quickly and precisely.

3. Medical technology:
Applications such as surgical instruments, laboratory equipment or medical scanners benefit from the precision and reliability of linear motors.

4. Vehicles and transportation:
Magnetic levitation trains (Maglev trains) use linear motors for propulsion to enable smooth and fast movements.

5. Consumer electronics and household:
Some modern high-end audio equipment and television lifts use linear motors for smooth and precise movements.

Advantages of linear motors:

• Enable precise positioning, ideal for applications with tight tolerances.
• Provide instant response and high speed.
• No need for gears or other mechanical components, reducing maintenance and wear.
• Saves space and is flexible to integrate into different systems.
• Fewer mechanical parts means less wear and longer life.

Challenges of using linear motors:

• Linear motors can be more expensive than conventional drive systems.
• Often require specialized control systems and electronics.
• Can be sensitive to environmental influences such as dust or moisture, which must be taken into account in the design.

Linear motors offer a powerful solution for applications that require high precision, speed and reliability. They are a key component in modern industrial, medical and transportation applications.

Here are the most important aspects to look out for when buying linear motors:

When purchasing linear motors, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that the motor is best suited for the application.

• Make sure that the linear motor can provide the required force (in Newtons) and speed for your application.
• Check the acceleration capability of the motor, especially if fast movements are required.
• Make sure that the motor achieves the necessary accuracy, especially in applications such as precision machines or measuring devices.
• The motor should be able to repeatedly move to exactly the same position.
• The maximum linear travel of the motor must be sufficient for the planned application.
• Consider the motion profile (e.g. constant speed, variable speed) and ensure that the motor can support this.
• The linear motor must be able to be integrated into the available space. Pay attention to the dimensions of the motor.
• Check how the motor is mounted and whether the available mounting options are suitable for your system.
• Ensure that the motor does not overheat under the given operating conditions.
• Depending on the power and operating environment, additional cooling (air or liquid cooling) may be required.
• Make sure that the motor is compatible with your existing control electronics or that suitable control systems are available.
• Linear motors often require position feedback systems (e.g. encoders) to ensure precise movements.
• The motor must be able to carry and move the load required in your application. Consider both dynamic (while moving) and static (at standstill) load requirements.
• Pay attention to the service life of the motor and the maintenance requirements. High-quality components and a robust design contribute to longevity.
• Check that the motor is designed for the number of operating cycles your application requires.
• The motor should be suitable for the environmental conditions in which it is used (e.g. dust, humidity, temperature).
• Pay attention to the protection class of the motor, especially if it is used in harsh or dirty environments.
• Also consider the long-term operating costs, including maintenance, energy consumption and any spare parts.
• Make sure that the manufacturer offers technical support, warranty services and training.

By carefully considering these factors, you will ensure that the linear motor is best suited to your specific requirements and offers high performance and reliability.

Linear motors can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information about manufacturers and suppliers of Linear motors from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.