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There are many variables that influence the selection of a Linear Motion System. Thomson has dedicated the past 70+ years to becoming experts in this field and providing customers with the necessary resources to make informed design decisions. Browse the sections below to help guide you through selection process and do not hesitate to contact us with any questions.


Basic Linear Motion System Terminology



Learn the basics about Linear Motion Systems and related technologies.


Linear Motion Unit Suitability Based on Application Type

Below are three typical application categories and the Linear Motion System families and sizes that are suitable for each of them. These categories are just a starting point. Depending on the specific application demands, Linear Motioneering or an application engineer may choose a unit from a different category.

SMALL TRANSPORT


EXAMPLES
  • Laboratory automation
  • 3D printers and scanners
  • Small CNC
  • Test and measurement

CONSIDERATIONS
Max. speed:   3 m/s
Max. acceleration: 40 m/s²
Max. force, Fx: 1730 N
Max. stroke length: 2000 mm
Max. moment load, Mx: 10 Nm
Max. moment load, My: 30 Nm
Max. moment load, Mz: 30 Nm
Repeatability: ± 0.005 mm

SUITABLE FAMILIES AND SIZES
  • MS25, MS33,
  • WH40
  • WM40S, WM40D

MEDIUM TO LARGE TRANSPORT

EXAMPLES
  • Factory automation
  • Pick and place
  • Packaging
  • Material handling

CONSIDERATIONS
Max. speed:   10 m/s
Max. acceleration: 40 m/s²
Max. force, Fx: 5000 N
Max. stroke length: 12000 mm
Max. moment load, Mx: 500 Nm
Max. moment load, My: 930 Nm
Max. moment load, Mz: 500 Nm
Repeatability: ± 0.005 mm

SUITABLE FAMILIES AND SIZES
  • M50, M55, M75, M100,
  • WH50, WH80
  • WH120
  • MLSH60
  • 2DB
  • WHZ50, WHZ80

PRECISION MOTION

EXAMPLES
  • Laser, water and paper cutters
  • Machine tool automation
  • Diagnostic imaging
  • Electronic assembly

CONSIDERATIONS
Max. speed:   5 m/s
Max. acceleration: 20 m/s²
Max. force, Fx: 12000 N
Max. stroke length: 11000 mm
Max. moment load, Mx: 2463 Nm
Max. moment load, My: 1903 Nm
Max. moment load, Mz: 1903 Nm
Repeatability: ± 0.005 mm

SUITABLE FAMILIES AND SIZES
  • WM60, WM80, WM120
  • WM60Z, WM80Z
  • WV60, WV80, WV120
  • MLSM60, MLSM80
  • 2HB
  • 2RB

Webinars



 Learn about Linear Motion Systems by watching our training webinars.

 

Technical Articles



 Read technical articles regarding Linear Motion Systems and how to use them.

 

Tech Tips Videos



 Our Tech Tips videos provide brief tutorials on how to best use Linear Motion Systems.


 

Literature



 Download catalogs, brochures and other useful Linear Motion System documents.


 

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