This article examines the sound engineering practices and design principles needed to ensure the performance of mechanical linear motion components in sanitary washdowns or chemically cleaned environments. Relevant regulations and agencies, washdown-compatible materials, and best mounting practices and motion components for washdown applications are also discussed.

Moticont is releasing two 12.7 mm (0.500 in.) diameter Linear Voice Coil Motors, the LVCM-013-032-02M (Metric) and the LVCM-013-032-02 (Imperial).

Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) and the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) announce the introduction of seals, linear bearings profile rail, bushings (hub fixing devices), chains and sprockets to the PIE Technology Platform (PIE). 

Designed for larger cameras, tracking devices, telescopes, optics, and other devices, four new, high resolution, three axis gimbal mounts have been released by OES (Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc.).  This new series of Three Axis Gimbal Mounts are 588 mm wide by 463 mm high, and handle loads up to 10 kg.  The AU400-AER (Azimuth, Elevation, and Roll) Series of Three Axis Gimbal Mounts feature high precision 180:1 worm gear driven “V” groove rotary stages. Each axis is capable of 360 degrees of continuous rotation in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The position is held economically when the motor current is removed as worm gears cannot be back driven.  The Roll Stage has a precision pattern of threaded holes for mounting tooling, cameras, lasers, etc., and a through hole for cables and optics.  Devices up to 395 mm wide can be mounted on the rotary stage. 

Motion Industries, Inc. named NSK “2022 Supplier of the Year.” The award recognizes companies that have shown exceptional commitment to Motion through quality products and services and earned the highest score in the multi-faceted Supplier Stratification rating system. The presentation took place July 18, 2023, at NSK’s manufacturing facilities in Franklin, TN.

Rollon has introduced its TLS Series of telescoping linear actuators. The new series is designed to maximize productivity for applications where space is limited — especially for applications with minimal vertical clearance, such as between the machine and ceiling, or horizontally between machines.

Fixtureworks (Fraser, MI) a North American manufacturer and supplier of clamps, fixturing accessories, machine tool components and rollers & bumpers, now offers a line of mechanical linear actuators.

Intellidrives new overhead XY gantry built with precision ball screw actuators and are offered in travel length from 100 to 600 mm. They can be motorized with stepper motors, brushless servomotor/encoders or integrated Smart motors.

IKO is pleased to announce that Jeff Williams has joined the company as national distribution sales manager. Contributing to IKO's efforts to build and enhance relationships with valued customers, Williams will be based in Parsippany, NJ and will work closely with distributors and sales teams.

Motion Plus has announced the release of the Motus1 (M1) industrial positioning actuator. This new addition brings a belt- and screw-driven industrial linear positioner for superior performance to Motion Plus's already broad portfolio of in-stock, high-quality automation components.