GS Series Linear Actuator
For applications not already converted to Exlar’s GSX Series, the GS Series offers 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7 inch frame sizes to represent a wide range or force, speed, stroke and mounting configurations. Exlar GS Series linear actuators use a specially designed roller screw mechanism for converting electric motor power into linear motion within the actuator. Planetary rollers assembled around the actuator’s extending rod follow threads which are precisely machined on the inside surface of the actuator’s hollow armature. Linear motion is produced in precise synchronization with the armature rotation. Because this roller screw mechanism has an inherently larger cumulative contact surface, these actuators have a much longer working life, and can handle heavier loads at higher speeds than is possible from a similarly sized unit built around a ball screw system.
The Actuator & Motor, All in One Compact Unit
With other actuator technologies, you are usually responsible for engineering the completed linear motion system. This usually includes purchasing the motor, gear reducer, timing belt, mounting hardware, flexible couplings, etc. separately. Then they all must be assembled to perform properly in a given application. Once put together, the system usually must be ‘tweaked’ before it can be released to production. GS Series actuators eliminate all this systems engineering. GS units are a single, fully integrated component package, much smaller than traditional rotary-to-linear conversion mechanisms.
Designed for State-of-the-Art Electronic Controls
Their brushless servo design means GS units can be used in advanced closed loop servo systems whenever electronic velocity and positioning control is required. Position feedback can be delivered in a number of different forms. These include resolvers, encoders or internally mounted linear position feedback sensors. This flexibility allows GS actuators to work with nearly any brushless servo amplifier.
Sealed for Long Life with Minimum Maintenance
GS Series actuators have strong advantages whenever outside contaminants are an issue. In most rotary-to-linear devices, critical mechanisms are exposed to the environment. Thus, they must be frequently inspected, cleaned and lubricated. In contrast, all converting components in any Exlar GS unit are mounted within the sealed motor housing. With a simple bushing and seal arrangement on the smooth extending rod, abrasive particles or other contaminants are prevented from reaching the actuator’s critical mechanisms. This assures trouble-free operation even in the most severe environments. As a totally sealed device, lubrication requirements are minimal. GS actuators can be lubricated with either grease or recirculated oil. Grease lubricated units will run up to 10,000 hours without re-greasing. Recirculated oil systems eliminate this type of maintenance altogether. (A GS actuator with a properly operating recirculating oil system will operate indefinitely without any other lubrication requirements.)
