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Tech Tip: How to keep heavy loads balanced

Some Thomson smart linear actuators have a position-based synchro-nization option to help manage unbalanced loads when using multiple units. The system adjusts the speed of each actuator to keep them starting, moving, and stopping synchronously, regardless of their respective load distribution. So useful. So smart.
Learn all about this feature.

More precision, less friction: Strain wave gearheads

With the new Strain wave gearheads, maxon expands its portfolio, especially for applications with high demands on precision in torque transmission. The backlash-free design ensures exact motion control in minimal installation space -- ideal for robotic arms, surgical instruments, or optical applications. In combination with maxon drives, this results in a perfectly matched drive system from a single source. Available in diameters of 55 mm and 62 mm. Additional sizes and variants on the way.
Learn more.

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.

Rolls-Royce successfully tests first pure methanol high-speed marine engine

The first high-speed, pure methanol engine has celebrated its debut on the test bench at Rolls-Royce, setting a milestone on the road to climate- and environmentally friendly propulsion solutions for ships. [Credit: Image courtesy of Rolls-Royce]

Rolls-Royce has successfully tested the world's first high-speed marine engine powered exclusively by methanol on its test bench in Friedrichshafen, Germany. Together with their partners in the meOHmare research project, Rolls-Royce engineers have reached an important milestone on the road to climate-neutral and environmentally friendly propulsion solutions for shipping. The engine boasts 2,000 kW of power.

"This is a genuine world first," said Dr. Jorg Stratmann, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG. "To date, there is no other high-speed engine in this performance class that runs purely on methanol. We are investing specifically in future technologies in order to open up efficient ways for our customers to reduce CO2 emissions and further expand our leading role in sustainable propulsion systems."

Rolls-Royce's goal is to offer customers efficient ways to reduce their CO2 emissions, which is in line with the "lower carbon" strategic pillar of its multi-year transformation program. The project also aligns with the strategic initiative in Power Systems to grow its marine business. The ultimate goal is to develop a comprehensive concept for a CO2-neutral marine engine based on green methanol by the end of 2025.

VIDEO: Rolls-Royce's first methanol engine passes stress test. [Credit: mtusolutions/Rolls-Royce]

Methanol provides new challenges for engineering: unlike diesel, liquid alcohol does not ignite spontaneously and requires a completely new injection technology.

"We have fundamentally redesigned the combustion process, the turbocharging, and the engine control system -- and even adapted our test bench infrastructure," said Dr. Johannes Kech, head of Methanol Engine Development in the Power Systems division at Rolls-Royce. "Initial tests show that the engine is running smoothly -- now it's time for fine-tuning."

The single-fuel methanol engine could be an attractive solution for operators of ferries, yachts, or supply vessels. At the same time, Rolls-Royce is working on a dual-fuel concept that can use both methanol and diesel -- a bridging technology until green methanol is widely available.

Source: Rolls-Royce

Published November 2025

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