The latest HPLA Linear Actuator designed by Parker is to provide precision positioning (0.05mm) of heavy loads (1.6 tonnes) at high speed (5m/second).  This new actuator has a thrust force of 5,500 N, and is available in either timing belt or rack and pinion configurations.  Standard travel options for the timing belt drive module are up to 20m and 50m for the rack and pinion drive.

Parker’s range of HPLA applications further has the ability to install the units in any orientation as well as the possibility to change the rack and pinion version to any length by splicing units together.  Both design options allow the load-carrying carriage to be supplied with either synthetic load bearing wheels running in a high precision anodised aluminium profile, or hardened steel wheels running on steel guideways.  The first option is better for cleanroom or test/inspection applications, whereas the second option provides higher load bearing capacities for heavy-duty applications, such as materials handling and palletizing.

With regards to food related applications, the actuator can be supplied with a steel cover for the drive belt so as to avoid the risk of particulate contamination, and a corrosion resistant coating suitable for washdown environments.  The inherent strength and rigidity of the lightweight aluminium profile has been made possible through the use of FEA (Finite Element Analysis – load/structure analysis), and results in a compact unit with high energy efficiency.

The HPLA linear actuators are easy to specify, install and use, either for single or multi-axis configurations, due to the modular construction thereof.  EP Normand can supply the HPLA linear actuators without a drive module, for use as free-running guide units.  However, it is also available with a range of other options, which include fitting or connecting plates, position sensors, limit switches, integrated linear encoders and cable carriers.