Q&A linear actuator

We have posted frequently asked questions from customers in Q&A format. Please click on the question to proceed to the answer.

Power Cylinder

Words in Q&Aof

Q1Are Power Cylinder environmentally friendly?
Q2Is this compliant with the RoHS Directive?
Q3What is the greasing cycle for Power Cylinder?
Q4Is it necessary to change the grease in the reduction gear?
Q5Is it okay to mix greases from different manufacturers? Also, can the initial grease be specified?
Q6Why does the consistency of grease differ between the reduction section and the operating section of Power Cylinder?
Q7What is the lifespan of Trapezoidal Screw and Ball screw?
Q8What is the brake life of a motor with a brake?
Also, is it possible to adjust the brake torque?
Q9If it is for outdoor use, is it okay if it gets wet with rainwater?
Q10Can it be used in a corrosive atmosphere?
Q11Can it be used in a clean room?
Q12What is the usable temperature range for Power Cylinder?
Q13Can Power Cylinder be used at an altitude of over 1000m?
Q14Is it possible to manually adjust the stroke of Power Cylinder?
Q15What happens if I exceed the allowed catalog launch frequency?
Q16Does the thrust of Power Cylinder change between the push and pull sides?
Q17Can you also handle special motors?
Q18How can I improve the stopping accuracy of Power Cylinder?
Q19Is a brake necessary for a Trapezoidal Screw type cylinder?
Q20What is the torque setting for Power Cylinder with Torque Limiter? Also, is there any reduction in the set torque?
Q21Is it okay to stop the internal contact at the stroke end?
Q22When using two Power Cylinder in conjunction, why do both need limit switches for stroke adjustment?
Q23How many external limit switches for stroke adjustment can be installed?
Q24What is the output format of the rotary encoder for Power Cylinder? Also, are special requests possible?
Q25What should I do if the paint peels off?
Q26Is it necessary to prevent Power Cylinder rod from rotating?
Also, can rotation be prevented using the LS rod of the optional external limit switch unit?
Q27Is there any play in Power Cylinder?
Q28My trunnion bracket has stuck. What should I do?
To the answer
Q1Are Power Cylinder environmentally friendly?
A1

Although it differs depending on the conditions of use and calculation standards, it is generally considered that the power consumption is about 1/3 of that of a hydraulic cylinder and 1/10 of that of an air cylinder.
This is because with Power Cylinder, the motor operates (consuming electricity) only when the rod is extended or retracted, but hydraulic pressure and air must continue to be sent to maintain the load even when the rod is not extended or retracted.
This means that hydraulic pumps and compressors will continue to operate, resulting in high electricity consumption.
Power Cylinder 's load is maintained by a non-excitation actuated brake, which makes the operation quiet and prevents oil and air from leaking due to seal deterioration.

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Q2Is this compliant with the RoHS Directive?
A2

We have reviewed the parts used and most models are now RoHS compliant as standard.
Some models do not comply with the RoHS Directive as standard, but we can make them compliant, so please contact us.

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Q3What is the greasing cycle for Power Cylinder?
A3

Some models do not have a grease plug and cannot be greased, but for models that can be greased, please grease them according to the attached table.

Frequency of useGrease Cycle
501-1000 round trips/dayEvery 3 to 6 months
101-500 round trips/dayEvery 6 months to 1 year
~100 round trips/day or lessEvery 1 to 1.5 years
Note)
・The values in the table above are intended to allow longer use, and do not indicate the lifespan.
・The above table is for reference only. Please check the instruction manual for the lubrication cycle of each series.

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Q4Is it necessary to change the grease in the reduction gear?
A4

Power Cylinder is filled with high-quality grease, so it can be used for a certain period of time.
However, if the product has been used frequently for many years or stored for a long period of time, the grease may have deteriorated or emulsified, so we recommend that you inspect the product before using or replacing it.

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Q5Is it okay to mix greases from different manufacturers? Also, can the initial grease be specified?
A5

If the greases recommended in the catalogue are the same base oil, there is no problem if they are mixed.
It is possible to change the manufacturer of the initial grease, so please request this.
However, the condition is that the grease used must provide the same performance as the grease recommended by our company.

Usage categoryCompany NameGrease name
Ball screwTsubakimoto Chain Co., Ltd.JWGS100G
Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.Daphne Eponex SR No.2 *1
Nippon Grease Co., Ltd.Nigroove EP-2K
EXXON MOBILEMobilux EP No.2
Cosmo Oil Lubricants Co., Ltd.Cosmo Grease Dynamax EP No.2
Shell Lubricants Japan K.K.Shell Gaddus S2 V220 J 2 (EP) *2
*1 Grease pre-filled at the time of shipment.
*2 Former name: Shell Albania EP Grease 2
Note)
・JWGS100G is sold separately in a 100g container.
・The product names listed above are trademarks or registered trademarks of each company.
・For the U series (including U series multi), a dedicated grease is used, so please refer to the catalog and instruction manual for details.

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Q6Why does the consistency of grease differ between the reduction section and the operating section of Power Cylinder?
A6

The reduction gear uses a grease bath system. A slightly softer consistency of No. 1 is used to reduce the stirring resistance of the gears.
On the other hand, No. 2 grease is applied to the threaded part of the operating part.
If grease splatters, the lifespan will be drastically reduced, so we use a slightly harder No. 2 to prevent grease from splattering on the screw shaft.
To avoid confusion over which grease to use during maintenance, if you want to use only one type, use grease with consistency No. 1.
If you use consistency No. 1 grease in the moving parts, please grease regularly to avoid shortening the lifespan.

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Q7What is the lifespan of Trapezoidal Screw and Ball screw?
A7

Trapezoidal Screw:
Although it is not possible to calculate the lifespan, it is possible to predict the approximate lifespan based on past experience.
Please contact us with your usage conditions and other information.
Ball screw:
The B10 life allows calculation of the expected running life.
For an approximate lifespan, please refer to the load-life diagram.
If you require detailed information on the lifespan, please contact us with your usage conditions.
(B10 life is the life that can be achieved without flaking in 90% or more of the same Ball screw when operated under the same conditions.)

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Q8What is the brake life of a motor with a brake?
Also, is it possible to adjust the brake torque?
A8

The brake lifespan varies depending on the load torque, load inertia, brake wiring, maintenance, etc., but the total number of braking cycles is estimated to be around 1 to 2 million.
Some Power Cylinder allow for adjustment of brake torque, but this may significantly reduce the lifespan of the brake.
For this reason, even for models where adjustment is possible, we adjust the product before shipping, so please do not adjust it yourself.
If adjustment is absolutely necessary, please contact us and return the product.

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Q9If it is for outdoor use, is it okay if it gets wet with rainwater?
A9

Being outdoor-rated does not mean that the structure is completely water-proof.
Power Cylinder may draw water into them when they extend or retract.
Although a small amount of water entering the interior is not a problem, if a large amount of water enters, it may seriously impair the function of Power Cylinder.
To maintain good operation over the long term, please take measures such as providing a cover for Power Cylinder body to prevent it from being directly exposed to rainwater.
Also, take measures to prevent water from splashing on the device while it is in operation.

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Q10Can it be used in a corrosive atmosphere?
A10

There are corrosive atmospheres such as acid, alkali, and salt, and we can respond to each by changing the paint, surface treatment, and materials to suit each.
Please check the type and level of corrosive atmosphere and contact us.

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Q11Can it be used in a clean room?
A11

Although we cannot guarantee the cleanliness, we have a proven track record of delivering these products.
Power Cylinder has a fully enclosed structure, so there is almost no scattering of brake wear debris or grease.

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Q12What is the usable temperature range for Power Cylinder?
A12

Standard Power Cylinder can be used in the range of 0 to 40°C. The low temperature range varies depending on the series, so please refer to the catalog.
If you wish to use the product at temperatures lower than those listed in the catalog, we have a series that can be adapted by changing the bearings, grease, motor, etc., so please contact us with your usage conditions.
If you are using the motor at temperatures higher than the catalog values, you may need to consider heat generation and change to a motor with a higher heat resistance class or install a separate power supply module. Please contact us with your usage conditions.

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Q13Can Power Cylinder be used at an altitude of over 1000m?
A13

If the motor is used at an altitude of over 1000m, the cooling effect will decrease due to thin air. It is necessary to check the temperature rise during the usage cycle, so please inform us of the usage cycle and contact us.

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Q14Is it possible to manually adjust the stroke of Power Cylinder?
A14

Most models are equipped with a manual operation shaft that allows stroke adjustment.
When performing manual operation, remove the load from Power Cylinder beforehand.

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Q15What happens if I exceed the allowed catalog launch frequency?
A15

The allowable start frequency is regulated taking into consideration heat generated by the motor, brake, and screws.
If the thrust you are using is smaller than the rated thrust of Power Cylinder, it may be possible to use it beyond the allowable starting frequency. Please contact us with the allowable starting frequency, Power Cylinder model number, used thrust, and usage cycle.

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Q16Does the thrust of Power Cylinder change between the push and pull sides?
A16

With hydraulic cylinders and air cylinders, the thrust force changes between the push and pull sides due to the relationship between oil or air intake and exhaust.
In the case of Power Cylinder, the thrust force is basically the same on the push and pull sides.
However, for strokes above a certain level, the thrust is limited due to buckling strength.
Even in this case, the pulling thrust can still be exerted according to the model number.

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Q17Can you also handle special motors?
A17

International standard motors: Motors that meet UL, CE, CCC, etc. can be installed.
Inverter motor: Compatible with constant torque and constant horsepower type inverter motors.
Servo motor: Compatible with servo motors from various electrical manufacturers.
However, the input rotation speed must be 2000 r/min or less.
The Eco Series servo type 70 frame can input up to 3000 r/min.

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Q18How can I improve the stopping accuracy of Power Cylinder?
A18

The brake and motor are connected simultaneously. If you wish to improve stopping accuracy, please change to separate wiring for the brake and motor.
If you want to further improve stopping accuracy, you can improve accuracy by controlling the inverter to slow down the speed before stopping.
In this case too, the brake motor must be wired separately.
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Q19Is a brake necessary for a Trapezoidal Screw type cylinder?
A19

The self-locking properties of Trapezoidal Screw make it possible to hold the load, but the stopping position may change if vibration or impact occurs.
In particular, if the installation direction is vertical, there is a risk that the object being lifted may fall, so we recommend installing a brake mechanism.

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Q20What is the torque setting for Power Cylinder with Torque Limiter? Also, is there any reduction in the set torque?
A20

It is set to 150 to 200% of the rated thrust of Power Cylinder Torque Limiter is a friction clutch, so if it slips a few times in a short period of time, the torque reduction is small and it can be used as is, but if it slips for a long period of time, the set torque will drop significantly and the motor torque will not be able to be transmitted, which may prevent the cylinder from operating.

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Q21Is it okay to stop the internal contact at the stroke end?
A21

Only Eco Series CDS type and F Series (100 to 400N type: must be used in conjunction with an overload detection unit) can be used to stop the load.
When using other series for impact stopping, please set a limit on the equipment within the stroke range of Power Cylinder and use a type equipped with Thrust detection limit switch.

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Q22When using two Power Cylinder in conjunction, why do both need limit switches for stroke adjustment?
A22

When multiple units are connected, Power Cylinder are driven by their respective motors.
Even if the same motor is started and stopped at the same timing, there will be individual differences in slippage between individual motors, and these differences in slippage will lead to stroke errors in Power Cylinder.
The error is around 5%, so it is not a problem in the early stages, but as you continue to use it, this error accumulates and becomes large enough to damage the cylinder or device.
To eliminate this error for each operation, a limit switch for stroke adjustment is required for each Power Cylinder.
However, please provide a circuit that stops each power cylinder separately using limit switches attached to each Power Cylinder.
Do not use one limit switch to stop all Power Cylinder at the same time.

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Q23How many external limit switches for stroke adjustment can be installed?
A23

When installing the T series horizontally, wiring can be considered and installation can be done at 150mm intervals. When installing vertically, installation can be done at 50mm intervals.
Please contact us for other series.

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Q24What is the output format of the rotary encoder for Power Cylinder? Also, are special requests possible?
A24

The standard output signal is the incremental type. If you are considering the absolute type, please contact us separately.
The standard output method is open collector output. If you are considering line driver output, please contact us separately.

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Q25What should I do if the paint peels off?
A25

Even if the paint peels off, it will not affect the performance of Power Cylinder, but rust will form in that area, so please paint over it.
If you require our standard colours, please contact us as we have spray cans of standard colour paints available.

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Q26Is it necessary to prevent Power Cylinder rod from rotating?
Also, can rotation be prevented using the LS rod of the optional external limit switch unit?
A26

Due to the structure of Power Cylinder, a rotational force is generated in the rod. Link mechanisms and the like can often tolerate rotational force by themselves, but when pulling ropes or chains, the chains or ropes cannot tolerate rotational force and will become twisted, so we recommend that you either install a separate guide mechanism or select the optional "rod stopper" for the cylinder itself.
The LS rod of the external limit switch unit lacks rigidity and strength, so it cannot be used to prevent rotation.

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Q27Is there any play in Power Cylinder?
A27

The clearance between End fitting and the mounting fitting will cause play at the hole part H10 and the pin part d9.
Also, Ball screw has a precision grade of C10, so there will be some play in that area as well.
These combinations cause mechanical play.

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Q28My trunnion bracket has stuck. What should I do?
A28

If the trunnion fittings become stuck, the only option is to melt that part down.
To prevent sticking, apply anti-sticking grease to the trunnion pin.
You can use the same grease as for the main body.
We can also provide a version with a bushing inserted in the trunnion hole. Please contact us for more information.

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