Automated format adjustment with RK linear actuators

RK Rose+Krieger and Lenord+Bauer benefit from the synergies that arise from the sensible combination of their product ranges

Automation specialists RK Rose+Krieger GmbH from Minden and Lenord, Bauer & Co. GmbH from Oberhausen both work together to meet customer demands for fully automated infeed axes. The linear units and actuators complement each other perfectly.

The linear units and actuators complement each other to create a practical complete package.

The package features single-tube linear actuators E, twin-tube linear actuators EP/EPX, and profile linear actuators quad® EV from the Move-Tec range. There is then the option of a short or long actuator with either an aluminium or stainless steel housing. The devices provide a rated torque of 3.5 Nm or 5 Nm.

Lenord+Bauer offer the torque supports necessary in fitting the PowerDRIVEs to the corresponding linear actuators. Once the torque support has been fitted, the actuator is simply placed onto the axis and pushed into position. A clamping ring fixes the drive firmly onto the drive shaft of the linear unit. In addition to the positive shaft connection, a flexible motor support also forms the necessary floating bearing on the torque support.

The actuator can be used either as stand-alone components or as a modular overall system, and can be directly plugged into the machine control system using the integrated fieldbus interface. The only things then needed to commission the linear actuator with automatic adjustment are a 24 V power supply and connection to the bus communication.

The two companies also work in close collaboration to fit even complex machines with multiple linear units and a local communication unit. In these cases, actuators with hybrid cable and a PowerDRIVE-Box are used, along with a compact PLC control system with operator terminal.

Both of these are supplied by Lenord+Bauer on request, in the form of a connection-ready module with operator software included. Integration into an existing control environment is really simple, as the PowerDRIVE system supports standard interfaces such as PROFIBUS and PROFINET.