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Micro-brakes for precise motion control applications

The ultra-compact 112 Model Electro-magnetic Micro-Brakes from Miki Pulley ensure fast response in high-torque, demanding applications. The simple design features a stator with integrated mounting flange, proprietary composite friction liner, and armature complete with ring plate spring and hub. These brakes halt rotation mechanically by utilizing an electromagnetic field to create mechanical friction. With fast response, the brake's armature engages the stator when the coil is energized. A constant-force plate spring transfers torque to the rotating brake body, halting all motion.
Learn more.

BLDC motors: Performance, flexibility, affordability

The ElectroCraft RapidPower Enhanced series (RPE series) is an innovative brushless DC (BLDC) motor design that combines performance, flexibility, and affordability, offering OEMs the perfect platform for a wide range of motion applications. Highly configurable, the RPE series can be quickly acquired and adapted into an application. ElectroCraft's BLDCs integrate rare earth magnets and an eight-pole encapsulated core design to provide high torque density, peak torques up to 300% of continuous ratings, wide speed ranges, low cogging, and excellent thermal characteristics.
Learn more and find out all the options.

What is a low-waving linear motion guide?

If you are having a problem with your linear guides not always staying perfectly straight during use, it may be due to a phenomenon called waving -- a problem that is particularly critical in high-precision markets such as semiconductor and LCD equipment-related applications or machine tools. Thankfully, THK has an answer.
Read the full article.

The future of artificial feel and haptics

From early "artificial feel" technologies to the haptics used in today's augmented reality, learn how precision motion is connecting the future to the past through force control. This informative blog from PI provides a little history and a lot of technical how-to when it comes to motion choices for creating the next generation of more immersive and accurate haptic solutions.
Read the PI blog.

Motion Applications: Max performance for pouch-filling machines

FAULHABER drive technology brings dynamics, precision, and high availability in tight spaces for pouch-filling machines made by Scaldopack. Unlike conventional pneumatic components, these machines can operate continuously for nearly three years without maintenance.
Read the full article.

Bodine Electric gearmotors have higher torque ratings

Bodine Electric Company recently upgraded the design of many of its type WX gearmotors to increase the output torque ratings while maintaining the same long-life rating. Two parts in the gearhead design were changed to accomplish the higher torque ratings: the rotor/armature shaft and the first-stage gear. This design change allowed Bodine to raise the output torque rating for any WX gear ratio where the first stage of the gearing cluster had been the "weak link." This included all of the two-stage ratios used in Bodine stock models and two of the three-stage ratios used in Bodine stock models.
Find out all the new capabilities and models in this Bodine blog.

Pick and Hold solenoid driver module designed for economy, extended life

Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS) has released the Pick and Hold SDM950 Power Solenoid Driver Module. This "Made in America," compact, PWM driver module measuring just 2.950 x 3.000 in. is designed to consume less energy by first applying the voltage for a pre-determined period of time (pick time) necessary to activate the solenoid and then, when the plunger is seated, drop the voltage (holding voltage) to a level sufficient to hold the solenoid in the seated position. This conserves energy and extends the life of the solenoid.
Learn more.

High-precision micro-positioning actuators

For applications requiring sub-micrometer precision, PI's L-220 series linear actuators provide reliable, high-precision motion in a compact design. Engineered for demanding tasks in optics, photonics, semiconductor testing, metrology, and microscopy, select models are available with short lead times to support fast system integration. Their low backlash and non-rotating, linearly guided tips minimize tilt and eccentricity-caused errors, as is common with low-cost, rotating-tip type actuators.
Learn more and get all the specs.

How to convert from hydraulic cylinders to electric actuators and why

Hydraulic cylinders are traditionally the go-to technology for high-force linear motion. They deliver high force at a low cost-per-unit of force, are rugged, and are simple to deploy. However, electric cylinders with high-force capacities are now available, and they are more flexible, precise, and reliable than their hydraulic counterparts. This is a very detailed article, including lifecycle and power costs, force requirements, and data collection.
Read this informative Tolomatic blog.

Linear actuator from igus handles up to 600 kg

The drylin SLX-8060 from igus is a ready-to-install linear axis equipped with a dryspin lead screw drive. The corrosion-resistant system can handle axial loads up to 600 kg (1,323 lb), making it ideal for logistics, robotics, and manufacturing applications in packaging and automated material handling. Designed to simplify and accelerate assembly, the SLX-8060 can be mounted directly to aluminum construction profiles without pre-drilled holes. igus offers the SLX as a complete system with optional motor and control packages, ensuring fast deployment for automation and motion system developers.
Learn more.

Where do you get drone parts?

Based in Buffalo, NY, Allient is furthering its robust technology foundation to deliver advanced motion and power solutions for unmanned aerial systems, starting with COTS propulsion motors and extending to electronic speed controllers, gimbals, propellers, mission-ready kits, and power/electronic solutions. Across all product categories, the company manufactures more than 5 million motors annually.
Read the full article.

Kollmorgen Essentials™ System: Affordable, precise motion

Introducing Kollmorgen Essentials™ Motion Systems: High-performance, affordable, and precise motion for every industrial axis. These pre-configured systems enable simple sizing and selection, while multiple onboard communication protocols ensure seamless integration. Each system combines an optimally matched servo drive, a servo motor with integrated absolute multi-turn feedback, and a combined power/data cable. With ease of installation and commissioning, Kollmorgen Essentials ensures reliable performance across key industrial applications from packaging and warehouse automation to material handling and forming.
Learn more.

Motion Control Tech Tip: The 6 myths of stage error mapping

According to the experts at Motion Solutions, stage error mapping -- measuring absolute positioning error at a specified set of sampling points -- has gained a reputation for achieving high-accuracy motion control with lower-cost equipment. The theory is sound, but the problem is that there are a lot of misconceptions around stage error mapping that can lead to its use in unsuitable applications and disappointing results. Want to learn how you can use it for its maximum benefit?
Read the Motion Solutions blog.

ABB expands Baldor-Reliance SP4 motor line with shaft-grounded models for enhanced bearing protection

Companies can increase motor efficiency by as much as 20% by using units in the ABB Baldor-Reliance SP4 motor line, which features integrated shaft grounding technology. Designed specifically for variable speed drive (VSD) applications, SP4 shaft ground motors offer superior protection against electrical discharge damage, extending motor life and reducing costly downtime. SP4 motors are available in severe-duty cast-iron units covering a power range of 25 to 300 hp, and general-purpose rolled-steel models available in 1/4 to 20 hp.
Learn more.

What is Sensorless Closed Loop? Precise motor control without an encoder

Matt Sherman, eMobility Sales and Application Engineer at KEB America, runs through different options to drive an AC motor, including one called "Sensorless Closed Loop" that does not require additional hardware such as encoder, resolver, or cables on the motor.
Read the blog, which includes an informative video.

New heavy-duty semi truck for the U.S. market wins prestigious design award

The all-new Volvo VNL was recently awarded the 2025 Red Dot Award for product design in the commercial vehicles category. [Image courtesy of Volvo Trucks]

Volvo Trucks' latest model for the North American market, the all-new Volvo VNL, has earned the 2025 Red Dot Award for Product Design in the commercial vehicles category.

The Red Dot Award is globally regarded as one of the most sought-after seals of quality for outstanding design, and this year a heavy-duty truck has taken the honors. The all-new Volvo VNL was reengineered by Volvo Trucks through six years of intensive research and dedicated product development.

Volvo VNL for long haul was introduced in January 2024 and represents a 90% redesign from previous models. It features hundreds of new enhancements to drive productivity, safety, profitability, and sustainability for trucking companies, while transforming the driver experience with noticeable design enhancements that make life on the road easier and better.

VIDEO: VNL overview. [Credit: Volvo Trucks]

"The all-new Volvo VNL was designed to change everything for heavy-duty trucks, and we evaluated every detail of the driver experience from selecting materials that provide a premium look and feel to incorporating innovative safety features that help protect drivers in case of an accident," says Peter Voorhoeve, president, Volvo Trucks North America. "Winning this prestigious design award validates the six years of dedication that went into transforming our flagship VNL model. We created a vehicle that not only connects with customers but also delivers exceptional performance and comfort."

"With the all-new Volvo VNL, we started with a blank sheet of paper and reimagined the truck from the ground up. The streamlined, wedge-shaped cab and dramatically sloped windshield are not just visually striking, they reduce aerodynamic drag and help deliver up to 10% better fuel efficiency compared to the legacy model," says Brian Balicki, head of Design, Volvo Trucks North America.

VIDEO: VNL interior and "living" space. [Credit: Volvo Trucks]

With its dynamic lines, optimized aerodynamics, curved windshield, and wedge-shaped profile, the exterior design signals a significant industry shift and reflects the Volvo brand strengths in a visually striking way. Aesthetically, the elevation pattern echoes throughout the entire product, starting with the distinct angled front grille, headlights, and intakes.

VIDEO: VNL engine fuel-efficiency tweaks. [Credit: Volvo Trucks]

Volvo Trucks engineers also made significant improvements to the already class-leading powertrain offering. The new Volvo VNL is powered by the latest generation D13 engine that delivers improved fuel efficiency, performance, and durability. The 12.8-L D13 turbo diesel engine is available in four horsepower ratings, ranging from 405 to 500 hp and three torque ratings from 1,750 to 1,950 lb-ft of torque. These different power options are designed to suit different applications and incorporate the improved and optimized I-Shift transmission, which features up to 30% faster shift speeds. When combined with the I-Torque powertrain solution, the D13 can deliver even greater fuel savings, best-in-class versatility, and drivability, according to the truck's maker.

Inside the cabin, the driver-focused interior introduces an all-new 24-V electrical architecture that brings industry-leading features such as dynamic displays, a Camera Monitor System, inductive charging, task/ambient lighting, and comfort and storage amenities. The customizable cab and sleeper configurations, along with the innovative versatile bunk setup, provide flexibility for driving teams and customer needs.

The all-new Volvo VNL features four exterior and interior trim levels -- Core, Edge, Edge Black, and Ultimate -- with six cab configurations, each designed to fit customers' preferences, brand identity, and operational needs. The first 400 trucks built include both sleepers and day cab models, offering a variety of packages, trim levels, and powertrain offerings to give customers a first-hand experience to determine the best fit for their operations.

Read the original Volvo press materials for this truck here.

Learn more at volvotrucks.us/trucks/vnl/.

Source: Volvo Trucks

Published July 2025

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