Introduction
Velmex has been a leader in providing positioning equipment for nearly four decades, offering solutions for linear and rotational motion in various applications such as scientific research, machine operations, and industrial uses. Their products, including UniSlides, BiSlides, and XSlides, are known for their reliability and versatility, with applications ranging from measurement and alignment to medical analysis and optical focusing.
Product Features- UniSlide Features: Available in widths from 1.5” to 9” and lengths from 3” to 93”, with weight capacities up to 400 pounds and resolutions to 0.00005”. They are available in manual and motorized versions, made from lightweight, high-strength aluminum alloys, and are corrosion-resistant.
- BiSlide Features: Features a rugged I-beam design with an integrated T-slot system for mounting and configuring XYZ systems, available in both manual and motorized versions.
Product Customization
Velmex offers a high degree of customization for their UniSlides, allowing customers to tailor products to their specific needs, including options for rapid/fine motion, special finishes, and additional features like revolution counters and position encoders.
Product Series and Specifications
The manual details various series of UniSlides, including A15, A25, A40, A60, and B90, each with specific dimensions and load capacities. For example, the A15 series is 1.5” wide with a dynamic central horizontal load capacity of 15 lbs. The manual provides guidelines for selecting the right UniSlide based on load and slide size, with detailed specifications for each series.
Options and Accessories
Velmex offers a range of options and accessories for their products, including different slider lengths, lead screw locks, and various finishes. They also provide rapid advance models for quick repositioning and models with micrometer heads for precise measurement.
Applications and Examples
The manual includes examples of UniSlide assemblies in use, such as a four-axis system for measuring travel distance and a three-axis system with an elevating table. It also provides guidance on selecting the right size and configuration for specific applications, emphasizing the importance of stability and load handling.
Specifications and Features:
The document details the specifications of the UniSlide B90 Series, highlighting its free sliding plus lead screw drive feature, which allows for screw-controlled positioning. Models are available with travel lengths from 0 to 75 inches. Key options include lead screw and slider locks, hard anodized or electroless nickel base, black anodizing on all surfaces, and an optional 12-inch long slider.
Measurement and Precision:
The Graduated Knob UniSlide Assemblies measure position to 0.001 inches or 0.01 mm, using a combination of linear scale and engraved knob. The high precision lead screw offers accuracy of 0.0015 inches per 10 inches or better. Travel lengths range from 0 to 36 inches with a scale, and a revolution counter is required for units with travel from 36 to 75 inches.
Options and Customization:
Velmex offers a variety of options to customize the UniSlide, including different lock types (Thumbscrew-on-Lead-Screw Lock, Traveling Slider Lock, Slider Lock) and optional finishes (black anodized, nickel plated, AnoLube III-15K). The Revolution Counter provides a digital readout and can replace the linear scale on certain models. Way covers protect the slider and dovetail from environmental contaminants.
Engineering Data:
The document outlines the design advantages of the UniSlide Assemblies, such as compact design, modular components, and customizable lengths and sizes. Load capacities vary by series, with detailed specifications provided for horizontal, central, and cantilevered loads. Enhanced straightness tolerances and wear resistance are also discussed, with options for hard coat anodized ways for harsh environments.
Lead Screws:
Lead screws are formed by rolling through precision dies, resulting in high quality and accuracy. Standard lead screws are made of 303 stainless steel, with options for nonmagnetic brass lead screws. The document provides detailed information on lead screw accuracy, thrust bearing design, and backdriving characteristics.
Assembled UniSlide XY Tables:
The AXY40 and AXY60 Series offer assembled XY tables designed for common applications, featuring a large top work surface and stable base. These tables can handle loads from 25 to 100 pounds and are designed with crossed and inverted A40 or A60 UniSlides.
Specifications and Options:
The document outlines various models of UniSlide tables and their specifications. The standard lead screw for these tables is W1 with a lead of 0.100” per revolution. Alternative lead screws such as B (0.050”/rev), C (0.025”/rev), and K1 (1 mm/rev) are available. Additional options include a graduated knob with 0.001” resolution and a revolution counter with 0.01” resolution.
Model Specifications:
Several models are listed with their respective travel dimensions, height, load capacity, and work envelope. For example, the AXY4006W1 model offers a 2” x 2” travel with a height of 3.75” and a load capacity of 60 lbs.
Series Descriptions:
The AXY25 Series features low-profile tables with a height of 2 3/8” and a load capacity of 25 lbs. The document also describes the AXY40 and AXY60 series with varying travel dimensions and load capacities.
Elevating Tables:
UniSlide Elevating Tables are designed for applications requiring greater strength and rigidity. They feature a standard W1 lead screw and options for finer pitch lead screws and longer travel distances.
Adapter Plates and Brackets:
XY and XZ adapter plates and brackets are available for configuring motion systems using UniSlides. These components allow for vertical or end-mounted positioning and are designed to handle different load capacities.
TA Rapid Advance UniSlide Assembly:
This system includes a linear encoder for high-resolution readout, suitable for applications like tree ring measurement. It features a rapid advance system for quick repositioning and precise measurements.
High-Resolution Position Readout:
AMO encoders can be mounted on most linear UniSlide assemblies for high-resolution position readout, except for Series A15 and A25.
Encoder Specifications
Encoders are designed to eliminate lead screw and backlash errors, typically mounted on Screw Drive or Rapid Advance type UniSlide Assemblies. Key specifications include resolutions of 0.0002”/0.005 mm and 0.00005”/0.001 mm, repeatability within one resolution count, and a chrome-coated glass scale medium. The output is a two-line TTL quadrature signal with a cable length of 10 ft.
UniSlide Specifications with Linear Encoder
The B25 Series requires a 4” slider, with a height increase of 3/4” and a maximum length of 36” with 32” travel. The A or B40 Series requires a 6” slider, with a height increase of 1” and a maximum length of 30” with 24” travel. The A or B60 Series uses a standard 6” slider, with a height increase of 3/4” and a maximum length of 66” with 60” travel.
VRO Digital Readout and Encoder
Velmex VROs™ are compatible with various input signals and offer features such as selectable encoder resolution down to 0.000004”/0.0001 mm, LED status indicator, selectable angular or linear readout, and high-speed interface. They include a TTL square wave input for compatibility with most linear encoders and an RS-232 port for data output.
Optical Rotary EncoderThis encoder provides quadrature output using 5 V logic with a resolution of 0.001” or 0.01 mm. It can be used with the A40, A60, and B90 Series and is available with or without a remote LCD for readout.
UniSlide Modifications
Velmex offers a wide range of custom modifications for UniSlide models, including additional holes, sliders, different knobs, special length dovetail bases, and various materials for lead screws and drive nuts. Custom modifications can be tailored to specific applications.
Warranty and Policies
Velmex Inc. provides a one-year warranty for manual UniSlide Assemblies against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover misuse or improper operating conditions. A 15% cancellation charge applies to standard product orders, with special product orders subject to a charge determined by Velmex Inc.
Combining UniSlide Assemblies
UniSlide Assemblies can be combined into various configurations using adapter plates, allowing for the creation of complex motion systems. The components are modular and can be reconfigured for different tasks.
BiSlide Assemblies
BiSlide Assemblies are modular, compact, and durable, featuring 45-degree opposing way guides, anodized ways, and a large lead screw drive. They are lighter, more compact, and offer a higher strength-to-weight ratio compared to ball screw driven stages. BiSlides can be easily upgraded to motor-driven systems.
Rotary Tables and TurntablesRotary Tables use a worm and gear drive design with a central rotating ball bearing, available in various gear ratios. Turntables differ by allowing free hand rotation and feature a 12° range of fine position adjustment, suitable for mounting and rotating test specimens and other equipment.
Introduction
Velmex, Inc. manufactures UNISLIDE®, BISLIDE®, and XSLIDE™ assemblies for medium or high accuracy positioning and scanning. These assemblies are used in various applications such as instrumentation and light machining. The UniSlide Assemblies System allows customization of slide width, length, lead screw, and motor to meet specific requirements. The document emphasizes understanding the UniSlide Assembly Part Numbering System for proper specification.
Specifications
The document details two models of turntables, A2505TS and A4007TS, with specific mounting instructions and load capacities. The A2505TS model features a 3.15" diameter and 1.3" height, while the A4007TS model has a 4.13" diameter and 1.3" height. Both models have specific thread and center-to-center measurements for mounting on various sliders. The tables are not recommended for tensile or vertical loads greater than 1 lb.
Base Mounting
Model A2505TS mounts on A15 Series 3” sliders using C holes and A25 or B25 2 1/2” sliders using D holes. Model A4007TS mounts on all A40 or B40 sliders using C holes and A/B 60 sliders.
Motor Driven Assemblies
The document provides an overview of motor-driven UniSlide assemblies, constructed from 6000 series hard aluminum alloy. It discusses the selection process for linear slides based on width, length, and lead screw pitch. The document also outlines the application requirements, including load, speed, travel distance, and environmental conditions.
Engineering Information
The document highlights the design advantages of linear UniSlide assemblies, such as compact design, modular components, and a variety of lengths and sizes. It provides information on straightness, wear resistance, and torque/load characteristics. The document also includes details on lead screws and nut drives, load capacity, and the UniSlide numbering system.
Examples and Applications
Several examples of UniSlide applications are provided, including pill crushers, hot wire anemometry, and laser guides. The document also describes various configurations and options available for UniSlide assemblies, such as limit switches, sliders, and optional finishes.
Protective Limit Switch Assembly: Velmex recommends using limit switches to prevent damage from motor torque at the end of slider travel, especially in applications with larger motors. Exceptions include small stepper motors. More information is available on their website.
Vacuum Applications: UniSlide positioners can operate in vacuums up to 10-6 torr with modifications. Detailed information is available online.
Nonmagnetic Properties: Lead screws are made from 303 stainless steel, which is slightly magnetic. For high nonmagnetic requirements, plated brass fasteners and brass lead screws are available.
Lengths and Material Substitutions: Catalog lengths are standard, but custom lengths can be ordered. Drive nuts are available in brass, oil-impregnated bronze, and Vespel®. Brass lead screws are available in some sizes.
Notice: Users must ensure proper selection and use of products to avoid injury or damage. Velmex provides options for further investigation by technically skilled users.
Warranty: Mechanical UniSlide Assemblies have a one-year warranty, while motor controls have a two-year limited warranty. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship.
Cancellation and Repair Return Policies: Standard product order cancellations incur a 15% charge. Special product cancellations are subject to a charge determined by Velmex. For repairs, an RMA number is required, and costs will be communicated before work begins.
Lead Screws and Drive Nuts: Velmex offers a variety of lead screws for flexibility in design. Standard and precision grades are available, with specific accuracy and efficiency ratings. Resonance dampers are included in longer assemblies to minimize whip.
Permissible Loading: Load, speed, and duty cycle are key factors in selecting the appropriate slide size. Guidelines for handling horizontal, vertical, and cantilevered loads are provided, with additional engineering required for multi-axis systems.
Combining UniSlide Assemblies: XY plates and XZ brackets are available for combining assemblies into multi-coordinate systems. Compatibility information is provided in the catalog.
Series Specifications: Detailed specifications for various UniSlide series, including MA1500, MB2500, MA2500, MB4000, MA4000, MB6000, MA6000, and MB9000, are provided, covering dimensions, load capacities, and motor compatibility.
Overview: The document provides detailed specifications and options for the Velmex Motorized UniSlide Series, including MA4000, MB6000, and MB9000, as well as the MAXY4000 and MAXY6000 assembled X-Y tables. It covers motor types, travel specifications, and additional features available for customization.
Specifications: The UniSlide series offers various motor options, including Pittman GM9000, Bodine, and Vexta models, with different NEMA types. The travel length is adjustable, with nominal lengths ranging from 9" to 90" in 3" increments. The lead screw and drive nut specifications are provided for precise movement control.
Features: The MAXY series tables are constructed with crossed and inverted linear UniSlide assemblies, offering a large work surface area and precise, smooth travel. They are compatible with Velmex motor controls and available with different travel lengths.
Options: The document outlines various options such as limit switches (standard internal, outboard adjustable, and fixed end-of-travel), longer sliders for increased stability, and optional finishes like hard coat anodized ways. Way covers are available for protection against dust and grit.
BiSlide Assemblies: The BiSlide system is modular, compact, and durable, designed for easy assembly into single or multi-axis systems. It features a precision lead screw, StabilNut for low friction, and a versatile carriage for mounting various payloads. The system is corrosion-resistant and operates without lubrication.
Applications: The document includes examples of BiSlide configurations for different applications, emphasizing the system's versatility and ease of reconfiguration for various tasks.
Overview: The document provides detailed specifications and features of the BiSlide actuator, highlighting its strength, lightness, and durability. It includes information on mounting options, motor compatibility, and load capacities, making it suitable for various applications.
Specifications: The BiSlide actuator features a hard nickel-plated lead screw and machined aluminum carriage, with a coefficient of friction ranging from 0.04 to 0.3. It operates within a temperature range of 0 to 180°F and offers repeatability of 0.0002" over the short term. The maximum load capacity varies depending on the configuration, with a normal centered load capacity of 300 lbs and a thrust capacity of 100 lbs.
Mounting and Configuration: The BiSlide system is designed for easy multi-axis configurations with T-slots, end plates, and threaded holes for flexible mounting. It supports both manual and motor-driven models, with travel lengths up to 80 inches. The document provides examples of XZ and XY configurations using standard Velmex cleats and bolts.
Motor and Lead Screw Options: The BiSlide accommodates NEMA size 23 and 34 motors, with options for different lead screw advances and resolutions. The document emphasizes the self-locking design of certain lead screws to prevent backdriving under normal conditions.
Additional Features: The BiSlide offers a way cover model to protect against contamination, reducing travel distance by 1 inch for units under 40 inches. A tandem option is available for higher loads, and a parallel coupled assembly is recommended for large loads or long traverses.
Warranty and Compliance: Velmex provides a five-year warranty on BiSlide and XSlide assemblies, covering defects but excluding misuse or unauthorized repairs. The products conform to the European Machinery Directive.
New Product Introduction: The document introduces the XSlide, a compact version of the BiSlide for smaller loads, offering high precision at a lower cost.
Overview: The document provides detailed specifications and descriptions of Velmex's motorized systems, including lead screws, motorized XSlides, and rotary tables. It also covers various motor types and control systems used in these applications.
Lead Screws and XSlides:- Lead screws offer a range of resolution and speeds with fine-tuning adjustments for carriage and lead screw.
- Constructed with anodized aluminum and PTFE linear bearings for durability and precision.
- Features include 0.0001” repeatability, standard NEMA motor mounting, integrated limit switches, and a cleat system for secure mounting.
- Multi-axis configurations are possible without adapters.
Motorized Rotary Tables:- Two series are available: B4800TS and B5990TS, with different sizes and gear ratios.
- B4800TS features a worm and gear drive with gear ratios of 18, 36, and 72:1, suitable for optical applications with a hollow spindle.
- B5990TS is a smaller, cost-effective option with a 90:1 gear ratio, including a NEMA 17 stepper motor.
- Both series offer options like magnetic reed home switches and encoders.
Motors and Controls:- Various motor types are discussed, including DC step motors, AC synchronous motors, and DC servo motors.
- DC step motors are highlighted for their cost-effectiveness and precision in incremental positioning.
- AC synchronous motors are noted for constant speed applications, while DC servo motors offer less noise and position feedback.
- Control systems range from simple voltage controllers to complex programmable systems for precise speed and positioning.
Functional Classifications:- Motors are classified based on their function: scanning or positioning.
- Scanning can be at a fixed or variable speed, with options for unregulated, regulated, or programmed control.
- Positioning is typically achieved with stepper motors and accurate lead screws.
General Motor Characteristics:- Different motor types are compared based on their advantages and disadvantages, such as cost, speed control, and torque.
- DC brush gear motors and step motors are detailed for their specific applications and benefits.
Conclusion: Velmex offers a comprehensive range of motorized systems and controls suitable for various industrial applications, emphasizing precision, durability, and flexibility in configuration.
Introduction to Step Motors and Controllers
Velmex step motor controllers utilize pulse width modulation current control and automatic motor power-down to reduce power consumption. They address position errors caused by electrical noise by eliminating translators, using a microcomputer to control voltage levels directly.
Advantages of Step Motors
Step motors are preferred for applications requiring incremental positioning, fast starts/stops, and accurate speed control. They are ideal for UniSlide assemblies due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness compared to servo motors.
Common Issues and Solutions
Step motors do not lose steps under normal conditions. To prevent stalling, motors should be sized appropriately for the load and operated at speeds providing 50% more torque than needed. Stalling does not damage the motor as it results in low output torque and slight current drop.
Translation Speed Tables
The document provides translation speed tables for both English and Metric pitch lead screws, detailing travel per revolution and speed in inches or centimeters per minute. The VXM control limit is 6000 steps/second.
VXM Stepping Motor Control
The VXM is a comprehensive motor control solution featuring a RISC Microcontroller for precise motor phase switching. It supports up to four motors, offers nonvolatile memory for user programs, and includes a variety of commands for versatile operation. The VXM is compatible with various hybrid step motors and includes energy-saving features.
Programming and Commands
The VXM controller supports 149 commands for maximum versatility, including motor run functions, speed settings, and looping/branching commands. It is compatible with software like Velmex COSMOS for easy setup and programming.
Overview: The document provides detailed technical specifications and operational commands for the VXM Stepping Motor Control system by Velmex. It includes command instructions, operational guidelines, and additional options for enhanced functionality.
Specifications:- Environmental: Operates between 35° - 95° F (2° - 35° C) with 10% - 90% relative humidity (non-condensing).
- Function: PWM Step Motor Controller for 1/2 Step Unipolar Motor Operation with RS-232 Interface.
- Physical: VXM-1 weighs 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg) and VXM-2 weighs 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg).
- Electrical: Requires 24VDC 2.5A power supply.
Operational Commands:- Loop Commands: LA-x, LM-2, LM-3 for looping operations with motors.
- Jump Commands: Jx, JMx, JM-x for program navigation.
- Pause Commands: Px, P-x, PAx, PA-x for timed pauses.
- Input/Output Commands: U0-U99 for managing user inputs and outputs.
- Status Requests: V, X, Y, Z, T for querying motor positions and controller status.
Immediate Commands: Include commands for verifying controller status, sending motor positions, and managing memory and program settings.
Set Commands: Used to configure motor types, joystick settings, limit switch modes, and other operational parameters.
Software and Accessories:- COSMOS Software: Facilitates configuration and programming of the VXM controller.
- USB Serial Adapter: Connects VXM to a computer USB port, functioning as a virtual COM port.
- Joysticks: Digital and Analog options for remote jog control.
- Auxiliary I/O Breakout Module: Provides interface for auxiliary I/O connections.
Warranty: Velmex offers a two-year warranty covering defects, excluding misuse or unauthorized repairs.
Additional Options: Include input terminals, OEM mountable joysticks, potentiometer speed inputs, and custom programming.
Overview: The document provides detailed specifications and configurations for BiSlide frames and bases, focusing on their construction, mounting options, and applications.
Specifications: - F2 and F4 BiSlide Bases: These bases are defined by type (F2 or F4) and dimensions (width, depth, height). They can be customized with additional framing for stiffness and can be combined for larger configurations. Options include extended top rails, open sides, and various work surfaces.
- T-Slot Plate and Base Profiles: These are versatile solutions for building support structures, made from heavy-duty anodized aluminum with multiple T-slots for attachments. They allow for complex configurations and easy vertical positioning.
Mounting and Assembly: - Angle Brackets: Available in Inline, Crossing, and Free Standing types, these brackets enhance stability for longer BiSlide assemblies. They require a minimum of 4 cleats for attachment.
- Post Assemblies: Utilize MSX base and foot plates for attaching rotary tables or accessories at right angles to the BiSlide assembly.
- T3 Support Rails: Used for stabilizing free-standing systems or as an adjustable interface between a BiSlide assembly and a frame member.
Applications: The document highlights the flexibility of BiSlide systems in various configurations, including vertical applications and complex assemblies using T-Slot plates and base profiles.
Contact Information: For more details, the document advises contacting the Sales/Engineering department or visiting the website for additional examples.