Electric drive ensures particularly high precision

The LEKFS series impresses primarily with a high positioning accuracy of ±0.01 mm and also features high rigidity for precise, safe, and efficient applications. Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH

For palletizing or coating, in general transport systems or other two-axis applications, companies often rely on electric drives. When particularly high precision must be met and a high payload needs to be moved simultaneously, only electric drives designed for this purpose are suitable – such as the LEKFS series from SMC. These impress with a positioning accuracy of ±0.01 mm and high rigidity thanks to an innovative design featuring a double-row ball screw guide on each side. Easy-to-mount signal indicators, easy interchangeability with drives from the LEFS series, compatibility with a wide range of stepper motor controllers from the JXC series, and the optional feature of a batteryless absolute encoder complete the package of the new electric drive of the LEKFS series.

Whether in the automotive, electronics, or semiconductor industries, the food or beverage sector, packaging industry, or general automation: electric drives have long become standard equipment. However, when it comes to moving heavy objects especially safely and precisely, conventional electric drives reach their limits. SMC has developed the LEKFS series as a solution, offering users a positioning accuracy of ±0.01 mm with high rigidity thanks to its smart construction. Additionally, signal indicators can be easily attached via mounting grooves, dust-proof band magnets are available to protect against particles for all sizes, it is compatible with various stepper motor controllers from the JXC series by SMC – and an optional batteryless absolute encoder is also available. The specialist for pneumatic and electrical automation has also designed the mounting to be compatible with the LEFS series, enabling easy replacement and seamless machine upgrades.

Safe and precise positioning

Inside the LEKFS series, a four-row ball screw guide (two on each side) ensures that the electric drive features particularly high precision and rigidity – whereas the LEFS series only had a single row of balls on each side of the rail guide. This results in, firstly, a precise positioning accuracy of ±0.01 mm and, secondly, a particularly high rigidity: the deviation from the carriage position is up to 50% lower at size 40 and a load of 500 N compared to the LEFS series, at only 0.027 mm. The deviation caused by carriage play is completely eliminated, resulting in a zero mm deviation across all sizes. The payload capacity is also approximately 61% higher at up to 37 kg (size 40) compared to the LEFS series. The positioning pin holes, which are now standardly mounted on the bottom of the housing for precise alignment, additionally ensure accurate and repeatable movements. Users therefore receive an electric drive with the LEKFS series that allows them to perform both very safe and very precise applications even under high loads. At the same time, due to the same dimensions, they have the option to replace their existing drives from the LEFS series with the new LEKFS series without additional effort.

High compatibility and quick (re)usability

The JXC series from SMC is available for stepper motor controllers, offering extensive compatibility with all common communication protocols: from EtherCAT and EtherNet/IP to PROFINET and IO-Link. In the version with 24 V DC stepper motors, the LEKFS series can also be ordered with a batteryless absolute encoder. By storing the last position in case of an emergency stop or power failure, operation can be continued easily without reference travel or delay. This not only increases efficiency but also saves energy – additionally benefiting the environment by eliminating the need for a battery.

The electric drive is also equipped as standard with mounting grooves for signal indicators (Series D-M9), which enable the querying of intermediate and limit positions. Overall, companies receive an electric drive with the LEKFS series that offers an optimal solution for a wide range of applications – especially when high demands are placed on precision and rigidity.