Advantages of Linear Stepper Motors (Compared with Conventional Rotary Stepper Motors)

(1) Fast Dynamic ResponseGenerally speaking, the dynamic response time of mechanical transmission components is several orders of magnitude longer than that of electrical components. By eliminating mechanical transmission parts with large time constants such as lead screws in the system, the dynamic response performance of the entire closed-loop control system is greatly improved, delivering extremely sensitive and rapid reaction.

(2) High PrecisionThe removal of mechanical transmission mechanisms including lead screws reduces tracking errors caused by transmission system hysteresis during interpolation. Closed-loop control via linear position detection feedback can significantly enhance the positioning accuracy of machine tools.

(3) High Transmission Stiffness and Stable ThrustDirect drive technology improves transmission stiffness. Meanwhile, the layout of linear stepper motors can be arranged according to the surface structure of machine tool guideways and the stress conditions of worktables during motion. Symmetric uniform arrangement is commonly adopted to achieve steady driving thrust.

(4) High Speed and Short Acceleration / Deceleration CyclesLinear stepper motors were firstly applied to maglev trains (with a top speed of 500 km/h). When deployed for machine tool feed drives, they easily satisfy the maximum feed speed requirements for ultra-high-speed cutting (60～100 m/min or higher). Benefiting from the fast response of zero-transmission architecture, acceleration and deceleration phases are drastically shortened. The motor can instantly reach high speed upon startup and come to an accurate halt rapidly during high-speed operation. Its acceleration can normally reach 2～10 g (g=9.8 m/s²).

(5) Unlimited Travel StrokeThe travel range of the mover can be extended infinitely by connecting multiple stators of linear stepper motors in series on the guide rails.

(6) Low Operating NoiseMechanical friction from transmission components such as lead screws is eliminated. Furthermore, rolling guideways or magnetic levitation guideways (non-contact structure) can be adopted for the guideway pairs, which substantially reduces operating noise.

(7) High EfficiencyWithout intermediate transmission links, energy loss generated by mechanical friction is eliminated.

In-depth Analysis: Operating Principle of Linear Stepper Motors

Application Fields of Linear Stepper Motors

Linear stepper motors are widely adopted in numerous fields demanding high precision, including manufacturing, precision calibration, precision fluid measurement, accurate position displacement and other scenarios.