SEW-EURODRIVE launches LM3S electric cylinders for linear motion

SEW-EURODRIVE has introduced the LM3S series of electric cylinders. The electromechanical actuators convert motor rotation into precise push-pull movement. The company said the new series expands its linear motion portfolio for machine builders seeking fast, accurate actuation in demanding automation applications.

“Machine builders are under constant pressure to increase productivity while reducing maintenance and simplifying machine design,” noted Anecia Hoffield, servo product manager at SEW-EURODRIVE. “The LM3S electric cylinder series helps address those needs by combining fast, precise movement with flexible configuration options and maintenance-free operation.”

Founded in 1931, SEW-EURODRIVE is a global leader in industrial automation. The Bruchsal, Germany-based company holds more than 1,000 patents, innovating in gearmotors, frequency inverters, servo drives, and Industry 4.0 technologies.

Family-owned SEW-EURODRIVE provides engineered systems for industries including automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, mining, logistics, and energy.

LM3S series aims to make linear motion easier to incorporate

Building on the proven CMS platform, SEW-EURODRIVE said its LM3S series gives machine builders a wider range of force options while making linear motion easier to integrate into new machine designs. The series supports forces up to 26 kN, allowing heavier-duty applications to be automated within the same modular platform.

A patented oil-bath lubrication system simplifies the previous lubrication design by eliminating the need for an oil pump system. The optimized system helps reduce friction and wear, improves heat dissipation, and eliminates routine relubrication.

Benefits for machine builders

The LM3S electric cylinder series provides customers with the following benefits, according to SEW-EURODRIVE:

• Scalable force range: Configurations provide force ratings from 8 to 26 kN, allowing users to match the cylinder to different linear motion requirements and heavier-duty applications.
• Shorter cycle times: Fast, accurate movement helps machines complete cycles more quickly, even when moving heavy loads.
• Simplified integration: Single-cable MOVILINK DDI technology reduces wiring, simplifies installation, and supports easier startup within the MOVI-C modular automation system.
• Maintenance-free operation: The unique oil-bath and grease lubrication design helps reduce maintenance demands and downtime.
• Flexible machine design: Multiple servomotor options, different belt transmission ratios, and mounting options help machine builders adapt the cylinder to different space and performance requirements without redesigning the machine.

Linear motion designed for modern automation

The LM3S series is designed for applications that require fast, precise push-pull movement, including material handling systems, pick-and-place equipment, machine tools, welding systems, and material processing machinery.

SEW-EURODRIVE said the LM3S is available in three configurable sizes, with a stroke length range from 60 to 1,200 mm (2.3 to 47.2 in.).

The company claimed that electric cylinders deliver fast, accurate linear movement that can help shorten machine cycle times, even under heavy loads. Multiple synchronous servomotor options and belt transmission configurations allow machine builders to tailor performance for specific speed, braking torque, and holding-force requirements, it said.

The LM3S series can be combined with SEW-EURODRIVE CMP and CM3 modular servomotor systems. Parallel and series mounting options give machine builders greater flexibility when installing the cylinder in narrow or short machine designs. Connections are also available to mount the LM3S to nearly any manufacturer’s servomotor.

LM3S integrates into SEW-EURODRIVE line

SEW-EURODRIVE said it designed the LM3S series to integrate easily with its automation systems. Support for Resolver, HIPERFACE and MOVILINK DDI feedback technologies simplifies connections to the MOVI-C modular automation system, the company explained. Users can configure the cylinders online or through the SEW-Workbench planning and configuration tool to support drive selection and system design.

“The LM3S series expands SEW-EURODRIVE’s linear motion portfolio with higher force capabilities and additional configuration options,” said the company. “Its scalable design gives machine builders a broader range of force, motor, and mounting combinations without requiring an entirely new platform.”

SEW-EURODRIVE added that the LM3S gives machine builders another option for improving performance while simplifying integration and reducing maintenance. It also expands the company’s portfolio of integrated motion solutions that combine mechanical drive technology, motors, automation, and engineering software.