Electric cylinders for high-power, precise positioning

June 1, 2023

AA3000 electric cylinders provide precise, energy-efficient motion, and combine high power and dynamics as an alternative to pneumatics. They’re ideally suited as direct drives for linear motion applications with high process forces and speeds, and offer a compact footprint combined with the advantages of servo technology, such as closed-loop positioning, safe positioning at a standstill and high energy efficiency.

AA3000’s integrated mechanism—composed of precise roller bearings, ball screw and guide—provides backlash-free, purely translatory motion, which also results in very compact dimensions. The shaft end of the spindle features an external thread to mount conventional adapters, such as ball heads or clamping hooks typically used with pneumatic/hydraulic devices.

The first product of the new series is the AA3033 electric cylinder that’s offered in two variants:

  • 12,500 N peak force, 3,700 N continuous force and 0.5 m/s maximum speed, and
  • 6,250 N peak force, 1,850 N continuous force and 1.0 m/s maximum speed.

 The flange size of the electric cylinder is based on ISO 15552, and has bolting points on both sides in case, for example, an application requires a swivel bolt connection. This compatibility makes the conversion from pneumatic to electric drive technology particularly easy. 

Beyond high resolution, AA3033’s safe2, 24-bit multiturn encoder offers the advantages of One Cable Technology (OCT) and an electronic identification plate for fast and simple commissioning. In addition, this electric cylinder series simplifies access to process data by employing TwinCAT 3 automation software that automatically configures position travel limits and known position offset for the encoder after reading in the nameplate. These capabilities help engineers optimize performance quickly and easily. Other spindle pitches and a backlash-free holding brake are also available as options.

Beckhoff Automation