Columbus McKinnon Adds New SPA Linear Actuator with Intelli-Motion™ Technology to Family of Automation Solutions

Rhea-AI Summary

Columbus McKinnon has launched the SPA Linear Actuator with Intelli-Motion technology, enhancing automation in material handling. This advanced actuator integrates a variable frequency drive (VFD) for precise control, supporting diverse applications, such as balancing loads and synchronizing processes. With a duty cycle increase of up to 75%, the actuator improves operational efficiency and production rates, while reducing installation costs. A free webinar on November 18 will provide further insights into its features.

Positive

• Launch of SPA Linear Actuator with Intelli-Motion technology enhances automation capabilities.
• Integrated VFD reduces installation costs and overall product footprint.
• Duty cycle increased by up to 75%, improving operational efficiency.
• Supports a variety of applications, enhancing production rates.

Negative

• None.

Columbus McKinnon’s First Intelligent Actuator Combines Plug-and-Play Control and Feedback with Robust Duff-Norton^® Hardware

BUFFALO, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Combining intelligent controls with some of the highest-quality linear actuators available on the market, Columbus McKinnon Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCO), a leading designer and manufacturer of intelligent motion solutions, products and technologies for material handling, today announced the introduction of its Duff-Norton® brand SPA Linear Actuator with Intelli-Motion^™ technology. The latest and most advanced Duff-Norton linear actuator, the SPA with Intelli-Motion is designed to provide reliable operation, enable precision motion control and simplify applications, especially those that can benefit from automation technology. The latest product to join Columbus McKinnon’s family of automation solutions, this intelligent actuator offers easy installation, configuration, and operation to ensure systems can get up and running quickly and perform reliably.

SPA Linear Actuator with Intelli-Motion Technology (Photo: Business Wire)

“Getting the most from a motion system means finding the right linear actuator, one that works efficiently, is durable, moves the load safely, and operates at the desired speed,” says Mark Yerse, senior global product manager and strategic marketing manager. “The SPA with Intelli-Motion can do all of that and more. It is robust enough to handle higher-duty cycle applications while providing precise, repeatable motions and feedback capabilities.”

By utilizing onboard variable frequency drive (VFD) control, the SPA with Intelli-Motion gives operators the ability to program specific movement patterns with variable speeds, expanding the range of production applications it can be applied to, including balancing loads on automated guided vehicles (AGV), synchronizing lifting tables, timing critical steps in a manufacturing process, and more. Optional Ethernet/IP connectivity enables direct connection to a PLC, providing an infinite number of control options and configurations to choose from when programming complex patterns and motion sequences.

Other actuator configurations require a separate VFD or contactor control system housed in an external control panel. The SPA with Intelli-Motion features an integrated VFD and onboard I/O, which reduces installation costs and the overall product footprint. Onboard analog and digital I/O provide enhanced control and position feedback capabilities. The actuator also features electronic programmable limit switches (EPLS), which provide greater precision and accuracy and increased ability to repeat motions compared to mechanical limit switches. The EPLS can be set with either a pushbutton on the actuator or the easy-to-use digital configuration software. Then, operators can simply connect the actuator to a PC to troubleshoot or adjust parameters.

In addition, the SPA with Intelli-Motion increases the full load duty cycle to 30%, an increase of up to 75%, as compared to typical ACME screw actuators. SPA with Intelli-Motion is also capable of running at a duty cycle of up to 50% at reduced loads. This not only extends the length of time the actuator is operational, but also helps improve production rates and reduces the need for wait times or external forced cooling devices.

Customers can learn more about the SPA Linear Actuator with Intelli-Motion, including additional information about features and benefits, available product packages, and technical data, in a webinar hosted by Columbus McKinnon experts on November 18^th. Registration for the free session is available at https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/6638015997554897935.

Columbus McKinnon’s Duff-Norton brand actuator solutions have earned a reputation as reliable, high-quality products that meet the industrial lifting, positioning and transfer needs of customers worldwide. For more information regarding the Company’s actuators, call 800-477-5002 or visit www.columbusmckinnon.com/duff-norton.

About Columbus McKinnon
Columbus McKinnon is a leading worldwide designer, manufacturer and marketer of intelligent motion solutions that moves the world forward and improves lives by efficiently and ergonomically moving, lifting, positioning and securing materials. Key products include hoists, crane components, precision conveyor systems, rigging tools, light rail workstations and digital power and motion control systems. The Company is focused on commercial and industrial applications that require the safety and quality provided by its superior design and engineering know-how. Comprehensive information on Columbus McKinnon is available at www.columbusmckinnon.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211102005202/en/

Christie Lagowski

Communications Manager

Columbus McKinnon Corporation

716-689-5648

christie.lagowski@cmworks.com

Source: Columbus McKinnon Corporation

FAQ

What is the new product announced by Columbus McKinnon?

Columbus McKinnon announced the launch of the SPA Linear Actuator with Intelli-Motion technology.

What are the benefits of the SPA Linear Actuator?

The SPA Linear Actuator provides robust performance, reduced installation costs, and supports precise motion control in various applications.

When is the webinar on the SPA Linear Actuator scheduled?

The webinar is scheduled for November 18.

How does the SPA Linear Actuator improve production rates?

The actuator increases duty cycle by up to 75%, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing wait times.

Does the SPA Linear Actuator require additional control systems?

No, it features an integrated VFD and onboard I/O, eliminating the need for separate control systems.