#USA #PI #A-123 #air bearing #Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

Introduction

The world of precision motion control is evolving, and PI (Physik Instrumente) is at the forefront of this innovation. Their latest product, the A-123 PIglide Air Bearing Linear Slide, exemplifies cutting-edge technology, offering sub-nanometer accuracy combined with zero friction, positioning it as a game-changer in high-precision industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, metrology, and optics fabrication.

Key Features of the A-123

The A-123 is designed for direct-drive, noncontact linear translation, making it ideal for application fields that demand the highest levels of geometric accuracy and velocity stability. Here are the standout features of the A-123:

• - Direct-Drive Motor: Featuring a 3-phase brushless linear motor, the A-123 generates force without cogging. This design eliminates friction and wear, ensuring a smooth motion profile.
• - Air Bearing Technology: Unlike traditional mechanical bearing stages with rolling or sliding contact, the A-123 utilizes actively preloaded air bearings which float on a film of pressurized air. This unique design results in no physical contact, thereby reducing wear and debris generation.
• - Precision Configuration: Capable of achieving motion ranges from 50 mm up to 750 mm and payload capacities of up to 40 kg, the A-123 ensures unparalleled straightness and flatness, with error margins as low as ±0.25 µm.

Dynamic Performance

The A-123 boasts remarkable dynamic performance metrics:

• - Acceleration and Speed: With peak acceleration of 3 g (30 m/s² when unloaded) and a maximum velocity of 1,000 mm/s, this slide is well-suited for a variety of industrial automation needs.
• - Stable Motion for High-Resolution Applications: The built-in air bearing guidance system maintains low-noise output crucial for high-resolution scanning and imaging tasks. The active preloading of air bearings helps to minimize carriage compliance, suppressing any speed fluctuations, ensuring consistent measurement quality.

Versatile Configuration Options

The design of the A-123 allows for extensive customization through factory-configurable options, which include:

• - Encoder types for feedback precision
• - Pneumatic carriage locks
• - Cable track variants for efficient movement
• - Options for vibration isolation and granite base plates for added stability

These features enable the A-123 to adapt to a variety of installation environments and applications, making it a versatile tool for engineers.

Integration with Control Systems

Pairing the A-123 with PI's A-800 series motion controllers enhances its capabilities significantly. These controllers allow for:

• - EtherCAT® connectivity for seamless integration
• - High-bandwidth servo algorithms providing synchronized multi-axis coordination
• - Optimized performance for various applications including tight velocity regulation and contouring

Industries Targeted

The A-123 is not just a product; it's a solution for several demanding sectors, including:

• - Semiconductor Manufacturing: Ideal for wafer inspection and lithography support
• - Optics and Photonics: Facilitating precision in optics fabrication and alignment processes
• - Cleanroom Automation: Perfect for environments that require extreme cleanliness and precision
• - Micromachining: Suitable for tasks where exacting detail is critical, like laser processing
• - Aerospace Testing: Enhancing reliability in structural and component evaluations

Conclusion

In summary, the A-123 PIglide Air Bearing Linear Slide by PI exceeds the standards of traditional positioning systems by offering advanced technology that ensures unmatched accuracy, stability, and performance. As industries venture towards more precise and efficient automation solutions, the A-123 sets a new benchmark for innovation and effectiveness in motion control technology.

For more detailed information about the A-123, visit PI Americas or contact them directly at [email protected].