|
MicroStep™ Linear Motor Applications
Energen’s MicroStep™ linear motors achieve long range linear motion at submicron resolutions and deliver high forces. The motors are designed to operate over a wide temperature range, from above room temperature to cryogenic temperatures (down to 4K). The linear motor finds many potential applications in the area of precision, high-resolution, reliable positioning over a wide temperature range.
One such application has been in particle accelerators. Superconducting Radio Frequency (SRF) cavities are structures used in accelerators to couple power to the particle beam. For all of the input energy to go into the particle beam, it is imperative that the resonant frequency of the cavity match the constant input radio frequency. Because more and more power is required to meet the demand for increasingly fine measurement of the fundamental nature of subatomic particles, this has become a critical consideration. Due to manufacturing defects and length changes during cooldown, the resonant frequency of the cavity can shift. Mechanical tuners that stretch cavities can be used to control their resonant frequency. The large motor shown produced in excess of 2500 N in a particle accelerator appliction, while achieving millimeters of motion at submicron resolutions. Further, unlike piezoelectric cavity tuners, Energen’s MicroStep™ motors operate equally well at room temperature all the way down to 2 K, in liquid helium, low pressure, or vacuum environments.
Energen’s miniaturized linear motors are uniquely suited to precision positioning needs with high force requirements, especially in hostile environments where piezo solutions are not applicable. Energen’s engineers are working to create smaller, increasingly verstile solutions for our customers in the United States Government and the commercial sector. Contact us to learn how our linear motors can help you.
|
