igus introduces compact electric telescopic slide to the market

Thanks to its compact design and 100% full extension, drylin NTM-45 is used in a variety of industries: from mobile carts for medication storage and dispensing to the automotive and motorhome sectors. (Source: igus GmbH)

From service robotics, through medical technology, to vehicle equipment: consumers are getting used to automated movement systems. To ensure they remain feasible even in tight installation spaces, igus has developed the new, low-maintenance, electric telescopic slide drylin NTM-45.

igus has designed the new telescopic slide drylin NTM-45 so that it can be used even in projects with limited space. The system is only 42 millimeters high, 45 millimeters wide, and depending on the version, between 150 and 500 millimeters long. The maximum extension length is 500 millimeters. "The compact drive with space-saving motor connection enables use even in tight installation spaces, where traditional linear guides with separate motor and control would be too large," says Michael Hornung, product manager for drylin linear and drive technology at igus.

Thanks to its compact design and a 100-percent full extension, the drylin NTM-45 finds application in various industries. In medical technology, it is suitable for devices such as mobile carts for medication storage and dispensing, especially in sterile environments like laboratories or hospitals. "The maintenance-free mechanics are specifically designed for hygienic applications," says Hornung. But the electric telescopic slide is also suitable for the automotive and motorhome sectors. Whether sliding armrests, mirrors, or monitor systems, the NTM-45 brings more flexibility and comfort to the vehicle and impresses with a low weight thanks to lightweight components like aluminum and plastic. Another application area is service robotics. drylin NTM-45, combined with a programmable controller, enables autonomous deliveries in the gastronomy sector, such as automatic opening and closing of drawers.

Lubrication-free design makes telescopic slides hygienic and low-maintenance

In addition to its compact construction and versatile application possibilities, another advantage is that the new NTM-45 system does without traditional roller bearings and lubricants. Anodized aluminum profiles and an aluminum middle rail coated with iglidur IC-05 polymer ensure low-friction, wear-resistant dry running, while a dryspin trapezoidal screw increases the smoothness and durability of the mechanism. Dust and dirt cannot accumulate, making operation maintenance-free, fail-safe, and hygienic.

"NTM-45 is not just a product, but a complete solution"

Designers can choose from various electric motors from igus. The drylin E series includes stepper motors, DC motors, and EC/BLDC motors. With the motor controller D1, movement sequences can be easily programmed via WLAN or LAN, with parameters such as speed and acceleration flexibly adjustable. "The NTM-45 telescopic slide is not just a product, but a complete solution that simplifies work processes and increases the reliability of the final product," summarizes Hornung.