Even more design options for heavy duty linear motion from HepcoMotion

HDS2 has retained the best features of its forerunner and incorporated them in a considerably expanded range. It is however a technically superior product to the original Heavy Duty. An important aspect of this is the introduction of specific components that reduce the engineering time required by the customer to get the system up and running.

These components include larger bearings with increased load capacity, three sizes of construction beam, single edge V slides and flat tracks as well as a range of drive options. All this, with an option for stainless steel or corrosion resistant components as standard enables HDS2 to satisfy most high load application needs.

HDS2 can be supplied in component form or as a ready mounted assembly complete with rack driven carriages. Customers can also choose from low cost commercial slides for general use or high precision ground slides for applications where superior accuracy and greater smoothness are pre-requisites.

Slides and tracks are available in single piece construction up to 4 metres long which in itself will save on assembly time. They are supplied in single or double edge format both as V slides or flat track. The V slides have a simple alignment facility to achieve parallelism and the flat tracks overcome the need to align two slides exactly parallel.

Greater driving forces for heavier loads are achieved through a range of spur or helical rack and pinion options. The helical racks are ideal for applications that require a smoother transition of the driving force and consequently are quieter. The engineering package is complemented by a range of rack driven carriages, complete with automatic lubrication facility, with helical bevel gearboxes that can be driven by AC or servo motor.

For maximum design flexibility, versatile construction beams with multiple slide and track mounting options are a feature of HDS2. In line with the new larger slides the HDS2 programme includes a larger aluminium beam that eliminates the need for the customer to machine a steel structure. Also available is a compact version of the beam that is ideal where space is at a premium. Alternatively it can be used to create a high capacity lifting Z axis. Where customers need the extra rigidity offered by a steel beam, all slides can simply be fitted and aligned using the keyway option with dowel pins. There is also the option of mounting directly to HepcoMotion standard backplates, again using the alignment facility.

Naturally HDS2 includes an increased range of bearing sizes. New introductions include a 150mm diameter vee bearing and a 144mm diameter roller incorporating high capacity taper bearings. Maximum bearing capacity is now 50kN, a substantial increase on the previous 20kN and all bearing options are available in stainless steel. All bearings are now offered in removable format so, in the unlikely event of bearing failure, they can be replaced without the need to remove the carriage from the system.

In addition to providing higher load capacity the double row bearings are exceptionally tolerant of debris. Low friction cap wipers expel dirt in harsh environments and provide automatic lubrication to provide a long service life. A removable cover allows easy system adjustment without disassembly. Lubricators also offer an alternative method of lubrication and can be applied to both bearings and slides. They will be a lower cost option where conditions are not hostile.

“HDS2 really provides an exceptionally flexible programme for arduous applications,” concludes Sales Director Chris Rees. “The additions to the range will enhance its performance and will provide customers with far more application possibilities.”