Auburn, MA – Piezo motion and air bearing specialist PI (Physik Instrumente) introduces a new high force piezo linear motor actuator for ultra-high vacuum environments and applications in strong magnetic fields. The new N-331.24U PICMAWalk precision linear actuator is based on patented piezo actuator technology and a patented piezo stepping motion principle.
Image Credit: PI (Physik Instrumente) LP
Features of the PICMAWalk V8 Piezo Linear Motors
Suitable for vacuum up to 10-9 hPa 55mm travel 4nm sensor resolution Sub-nm actuator resolution 50N drive force 60N power-off holding force 10mm/sec max velocity Robust piezo V8 linear motor with PICMA® piezo stack elements for extreme durability Fastest and strongest piezo linear drive of its size class Precise, nanometer precision positioning of loads up to 5kg Plug-and-play, thanks to PI proprietary controllerApplications of the N-331 High Force UVH Piezo Linear Motor
Precision motion drive in strong magnetic fields and in high vacuum Semiconductor test and manufacturing technology Wafer inspection Lithography Nanoimprinting Nanometrology Physics-related R&DPI’s PICMAWalk piezo linear motor utilizes a unique V-shaped arrangement of 8 (eight) PICMA® piezo actuators, resembling a classical V8 engine, to deliver exceptional push/pull and holding forces, combined with nanometer precision. These space-tested PICMA® actuators are known for their outstanding reliability, offering a push/pull force of 50N (11lbs) and power-off holding force of 60N (13lbs). The UHV-compatible linear motor can achieve a maximum velocity of 10mm/sec (0.4 inch/sec), and it can accurately position loads weighing up to 5kg (11lbs) with nanometer-level precision.
In contrast to classical electromagnetic actuators, piezo motor actuators offer the advantage of not creating magnetic fields as well as being unaffected by magnetic or electric fields. This characteristic makes them well-suited for a wide range of applications, from e-beam lithography to MRI technology. In industrial settings where precise positioning of optics, detectors, or cameras is required, it can be beneficial to eliminate power to the actuators once the fine positioning process is completed. With 60N of power-off position hold performance, the N-331 actuators with their self-clamping design provide a decisive advantage.
