Small DC motor and ceramic linear positioning system

Precision ceramic spindles have redefined small motor positioning systems. This latest example of precision linier positioning with the use of DC motor and encoder technology also uses ground ceramic surfaces that provide silky smooth motion almost completely devoid of the slip stick phenomenon.

Ceramics now play a key role in positioning systems that require high accuracy and efficiency from DC motor and gearhead driven systems.

The Maxon Motor ceramic linear drives feature a specially developed ceramic glide surface (CGS) that gives longer lifespans in automation systems with dynamic sliding movements. The linear systems with ceramic components are suitable in areas of strong electric fields or vacuum. The hardness and surface structure of the CGS improves wear resistance over traditional materials also. Power transmission or chemically aggressive environments, cleanrooms, high ambient temperatures or simply long life can be application requirements that need the advantages of ceramic materials.

The zirconia also shares many properties with steel such as elasticity and expansion. Because of this it can also be used within the gearhead alongside traditional steels and even the DC motor shaft is often ceramic enabling commutation components to be embedded into the nonconductive material providing smaller and more robust systems.