Parker Hannifin, the global leader in motion and control technologies, has launched a new range of Electro Thrust Cylinders, which offer high power from a small cylinder size. Providing significantly higher thrust than both competing products and Parker’s previous generation, the new ETH cylinder is a completely redesigned and enhanced electromechanical actuator that sets new standards in power density and operating lifetime. The performance characteristics set the ETH apart from other electromechanical actuators, and provide a high thrust, high speed alternative to pneumatic and hydraulic drives.
The ETH delivers its high power density for a given frame size thanks to its larger diameter spindle; this is significantly larger than conventional designs in relation to the overall unit size, resulting in high axial forces. For precise motion, positioning, setting and actuating, the ETH offers thrust force up to 25,100N, in strokes up to 1600mm (as well as short stroke versions), speeds up to 1.7m/s, with repeatability to ±0.03mm.
The design is based around a precision ballscrew that ensures low frictional resistance for smooth motion over the entire speed range, a longer life and increased efficiency of up to 90%. A new feature is an integrated anti-rotation device in the form of a high quality, maintenance-free polymer bushing which offers robust guidance, preventing the piston rod from twisting as the rod extends and retracts. During development, special focus was placed on reduced noise emission, which was achieved through modifications such as shrinking the resonance body and through bearing optimisation.
With its large spindle diameter and modified spindle nut, not only is force increased but so too is the force/life-time ratio, with the ETH providing a significantly longer service life than conventional cylinders. This helps to reduce overall machine cost of ownership. At the same time, maintenance costs are reduced, thanks to the inclusion of a re-lubricating bore in the cylinder flange.
A variety of limit sensors and force feedback options are available, with the cylinder design allowing sensors and cables to be mounted in grooves in the extrusion and then covered to provide a smooth outside surface. This ensures simple cleaning and safe handling. Simplifying product selection, Parker can also provide a complete drive train, including matching drive controllers, motors and gearboxes.
The ETH range currently covers three sizes (ETH032, ETH050 and ETH080), with additional sizes on the way. The design conforms to the ISO flange standard, making it a ready replacement for pneumatic cylinders. The ETH is offered as standard in IP54 format with galvanised screws, but is also available with stainless steel screws or in full IP65 format to meet the needs of more demanding environmental conditions.
Typical applications for the ETH include packaging machinery, industrial automation, materials handling, testing, material forming, force controlled applications, and in many applications where users are looking for an energy saving electric alternative to either pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders.
