Contents
MINI Actuator
Basics
1. How does a MINI Actuator work?
A MINI Cylinder combines the well-known principles of electromechanical linear drive systems in a compact housing. The rotational movement of the integrated motor turns a spindle, which in turn causes an axial movement of the bronze nut mounted on it. A piston rod is mounted on the nut, which then performs the lifting movement outside the cylinder housing.
A distinctive feature of the MINI Actuator is the hollow shaft technology of the motor. An axial bore through the entire motor package allows for the integration of the spindle and nut within the motor, thus shortening the overall length of the cylinder compared to conventional cylinders where the motor occupies additional space.
For the MINI 0 size, an AC motor 1x230V and a DC motor 24VDC are available. All other sizes are powered by AC or three-phase motors.
Hollow shaft motor inside the MINI cylinder
2. Sizes and options
The MINI drive is available in the following sizes:
- MINI 0
- MINI 01
- MINI 1
- MINI 2
- MINI 3
These sizes cover a load range from 1000 N to 26,000 N. The drives can be equipped with various attachments such as spherical heads, rod end bearings, swivel pins, mounting feet, and mounting flanges. Additionally, integrated options such as brakes, potentiometers, encoders, limit switches, and force-dependent shutdowns can facilitate integration into automated systems.
3. Mounting an electric drive MINI
GROB GmbH Antriebstechnik
4. Everywhere included
Depending on the desired stroke speed, a planetary gearbox is integrated at the factory. Additionally, every MINI Actuator is equipped with end switches and safety switches as standard. These can be wired internally or in the control cabinet, depending on your choice. The housings are made of stainless steel for all MINI sizes up to MINI 1, while MINI 2 and MINI 3 are always powder-coated. The piston rod is made of stainless steel in all versions.
5. When should a MINI Cylinder be chosen?
Machines with limited axial space for moving parts require the shortest possible drive mechanism. This is where the MINI Cylinder can be crucial in providing a solution. Its protection class (up to IP65) and high material quality (entirely stainless steel) make it suitable for use in the food industry and environments with aggressive mediums.
6. When is the MINI Actuator a poor choice?
If long strokes and high duty cycles are required, the MINI Actuator isn't the right product. In standard applications, the MINI Cylinder achieves up to 500 mm of stroke and up to 20% duty cycle. The fully enclosed cylinder requires sufficient cooling time to dissipate the heat generated by the integrated motor and the sliding nut.
7. Typical applications of MINI Actuators
- Ventilators
- Blood pressure monitors
- Injection systems
- Small robotic systems
- Assembly systems
- Small conveyor belts
- Labeling machines
- Sealing systems
- Steering systems for small vehicles
- Automated switches in vehicles
- Seat adjustments
- Control of miniature spacecraft
- Precision movement in satellite systems
- Instrument control
- Dosing systems for spices and sauces
- Small conveyors for packaging
- Processing of miniature food components
- Control of spinning and weaving machines
- Positioning of sewing and embroidery machines
- Automated fabric handling systems
8. Pro and Cons
Cons
✘ Closed system requires longer cooling time, limiting duty cycle to a maximum of 50%
✘ Customer-side repair is only possible with considerable effort
✘ Customization is limited to certain catalog standards
Pros
✔ Suitable for applications with aggressive environmental media due to stainless steel housing
✔ Perfect for applications with limited space due to compact design
✔ Easy to clean with smooth surface
✔ Handles direct water exposure with protection rating up to IP65
✔ No maintenance intervals required due to lifetime lubrication
✔ Can be used in explosive environments (ATEX)
FAQs about MINI Actuators
- Completamente de acero inoxidable
- Grado de protección hasta IP65
- Muy compacto gracias al motor de eje hueco
MINI 0 (1000 N), MINI 01 (1600 N), MINI 1 (3500 N), MINI 2 (14000 N), MINI 3 (26000 N)
Mediante un paquete de resortes, se puede combinar una fuerza definida a través de la constante del resorte. Cuando el paquete de resortes se comprime, un interruptor de fin de carrera envía la señal de retorno. Ventaja: el interruptor de fin de carrera también se puede ajustar en posición, lo que permite al cliente establecer con precisión su punto de fuerza.
Puede elegir entre 24 V, 230 V y 400 V
Sí, el uso de materiales inoxidables es una práctica común en entornos con medios agresivos.
Sí, los elevadores de husillo y los cilindros eléctricos MINI pueden utilizarse dentro de ciertos límites en zonas ATEX.
Para el extremo del husillo, el programa estándar ofrece las siguientes opciones:
- Extremo roscado
- Cabeza articulada
- Cabeza de rótula
- Placa de brida
- Placa de brida con cojinete
- Pivote
Las dimensiones correspondientes se pueden consultar en el Catálogo completo (grob-antriebstechnik.de)
Verifique la alimentación eléctrica. En los actuadores de 24 V DC, las cargas variables también pueden provocar velocidades diferentes. Además, se deben controlar correctamente el potenciómetro, el codificador y el freno.
No, los cilindros eléctricos MINI y los actuadores lineales son sistemas completos y no se pueden ampliar con otros motores.
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