- November 24, 2008
- BEI Kimco
November 24, 2008 - BEI Kimco Magnetics introduced Linear Voice Coil Actuators that provide increased safety and long service life. The new family features two patented spring designs based on magnetic, rather than mechanical technology. This technology ensures constant and precise valve position in either the open or closed setting when electrical power is off. OEMs designing products for safety-critical applications such as medical apparatus and other equipment that depend on maintaining a constant valve setting, will find the new actuators an ideal, low-cost solution.The new magnetic designs make use of a mechanical spring unnecessary. Each actuator incorporates either a magnetic ‘extension’ or a magnetic ‘compression’ spring inside a coil assembly. In effect, the entire actuator can be described as a controllable electromagnetic spring whereby the “electromagnetic spring” is controlled by the current in the winding. Both magnetic spring designs also include stops, which limit the position of the moving coil when it is not energized. When the coil is de-energized, it remains in a set, fixed position BEI Kimco’s new patented magnetic spring technologies provide “contact-less” actuators, which utilize fewer parts and have no additional friction, eliminating problems associated with wear-related performance while providing better repeatability and longer live. To best meet individual application needs, customers can specify actuator size, stroke force, stall force, peak force, and other key performance requirements, providing an actuator that is completely customized for the end product. “Traditionally, mechanical springs have been used to provide a measure of safety for assuring valve position,” explains Mikhail Godkin, BEI Kimco Engineering Manager. “Over time, these mechanical-type springs exhibit wear and tear, resulting in a reduced spring constant that causes undesirable performance deviations.”About BEI Kimco MagneticsBEI Kimco Magnetics is an operation of Custom Sensors & Technologies (CST). BEI Kimco Magnetics was founded in 1974 and specializes in rotary and linear motion control products. The company’s precision control products include high-speed performance Brushless DC motors, Cylindrical and Flat Voice Coil Actuators, and Linear Motors. These products are used across a wide range of applications including medical and scientific, factory and office automation, optics, semiconductor/electronics, military, aviation, space systems, and security.
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