The linear module of CNC system can be used with various types of motor. According to different application scenario and performance requirements, common pairing solutions include:
1.Stepper Motor
Applicable Scenarios: Light weight, medium and low speed, cost sensitive applications such as 3D printers, small CNC machine tools, automatic dispensing machines, etc.
Technical features:
Open loop control: No encoder feedback is required; location is directly controlled by pulse signals. Simple structure, low cost.
Low speed stability: Low speed with no cumulative error, suitable for precise steps.
Pairing Solutions:
Drivers: Stepper motor drive modules such as A4988 and DRV8825 support micro-stepping (e.g., 1/16 step) to improve resolution.
Control Interface: Multi-axis coupling is achieved by means of (STEP) signals from numerical a CNC expansion board such as Arduino CNC Shield.
A 42 stepper motor (rated voltage 12V) is used in the extrusion mechanism of 3D printer.
2. Servo Motor
Uses: highprecision, high dynamic response, heavy load or high speed applications, such as NC CNC machine tools, laser cutter, robot joints, etc..
Technical features:
Closed-loop control: Position information fed back through encoders (e.g. incremental or absolute), eliminating the risk of missing steps; positioning accuracy can reach micron level.
Type of motor:
Rotary Servo Motor: Convert motor to linear motion by coupling or gear transmission.
Linear Servo Motor: Direct: Direct drive, no mechanical backlash, suitable for ultra-high speed/high precision applications.
3. Linear Motor
Applicable Scenarios: Ultra-high speed, ultra-precision, long-trip applications such as optical component processing, electronic assembly lines, biomedical equipment, etc.
Technical features:
Direct transmission: no intermediate transmission links, eliminate backlash and elastic deformation, dynamic response is extremely fast.
High Precision: with grating ruler or laser interferometer, nanometer positioning accuracy can be achieved.
Solutions:
Drive: Supports dedicated linear motor control algorithms (such as the Gaochuang HD algorithm) to optimize tracking error and settling time.
Cooling Method: Liquid cooling or natural cooling, suitable for long-term high load operation.
For example, in semiconductor manufacturing equipment, linear motors drive workstations achieve ±0.1μm repeatability. Laser micromachining equipment adopts linear motors, combined with Gaochuang PCOM comparison output function, to achieve periodic position trigger.
