A new one-axis positioning system from THK Co. Ltd., Schaumburg, Ill., (thk.com) offers high acceleration and deceleration at low noise levels. Type GLM20 operates at speeds to 4 m/sec and 2 g, and hits accuracies of 1 µm average or better, thanks to a fully closed control with a direct drive and optic linear encoder.

A continuously useable force peaks at 3,000 N (674 lb), while instantaneous peak linear force climbs to 4,500 N (1011 lb). Multiple sliders on a single-axis base allow for independent control. Single unit strokes are available to 4.4 m.

Low noise — 53 dB during operation at 2 m/sec — can be attributed to THK's LM Guide Type SSR with Caged Ball technology. This also helps the actuator operate with reduced dust generation. The actuator comes complete with a water-cooled linear motor on a strong lightweight extruded aluminum base.