Aerotech ABL1500 non-contact direct-drive linear air bearing stage

The ABL1500 direct-drive linear air-bearing stage from Aerotech meets the needs of demanding scanning and inspection applications with its active preload, high stiffness and geometric characteristics. Its positioning tolerances exceed the capability of conventional ball-screw and mechanical-bearing systems. The non-contact design is intended to result in years of maintenance-free operation.

The stages are suitable for critical applications in any industry that requires smooth and accurate linear motion to manufacture, test or inspect a product. These include semiconductor, data storage, medical and genome devices and any industries requiring cleanroom operation.

The stage is driven by a brushless linear servomotor with an ironless forcer for zero cogging, and no attractive forces, resulting in smoothness of motion. Because there is no mechanical contact between moving elements, the stages experience no wear or performance reduction over time. Service life is claimed to be virtually unlimited with no lubrication.

A large air-bearing surface with opposing thin-film pressure accommodates heavy or offset loads with high acceleration and accuracy. The thin film fills small surface voids and allows for other irregularities, reducing pitch, roll and yaw, and improving straightness and flatness.