Aerotech PlanarSL X-Y ball-screw stage

Aerotech has introduced an X-Y ball-screw stage for high-precision applications from surface metrology to automation. The PlanarSL is an economical alternative for applications that do not require the ultra-high speed and precision of the recently introduced PlanarDL.

The low-profile mechanical bearing stage combines two axes of motion in a compact package. Its precision-ground and preloaded ball screw is designed to drive directly through the centres of friction and stiffness, resulting in superior geometric performance and accuracy.

The company says the high-precision linear motion guide bearings provide excellent straightness and flatness with optimal support of the moving carriage over the entire XY travel. Structural elements have been optimised for the highest-possible planar performance.

In addition to the standard 24 VDC bipolar stepper motor, options include brushless and brush DC motors with high-resolution rotary encoders preconfigured for use with Aerotech controls.

The PlanarSL is available with low-thermal expansion (3.3 ppm/°C) precision glass linear encoder scales on both axes for high-accuracy and repeatable positioning over long periods of time.