Small shock absorbers from ACE are easy to integrate into linear modules and impress design engineers with their compactness, high quality, precision, high performance, availability and 24-hour service © Zipatec assembly technology

In the case described, small shock absorbers of the type MC30EUM from ACE Shock Absorbers take on this task. Supported by the constantly available online calculation options on the ACE homepage, the company's own CAD program and additional test series carried out together with ACE, Zipatec opted for the self-adjusting and maintenance-free damping elements. With a stroke of 8 mm and an energy absorption of 3.5 Nm per stroke, these are able to achieve the desired high repeat accuracy of the LM35 in its linear movements, given the high repetition rates of the linear modules and the 5,600 Nm of forces that need to be dissipated per hour. Just 54 mm long and 10 g light when extended, the powerful tiny components from ACE can be integrated into almost any design, thanks to a continuous M8x1 thread.

Small helpers with great performance during emergency stops

An interesting alternative for reliable protection and also for hard work in the end positions of linear modules are the structural dampers from ACE, known as Tubus due to their tube-like shape. A total of eight product families with more than 150 standardized individual products have one thing in common: The elements made of co-polyester elastomer are a more cost-effective alternative to hydraulic dampers if precise, i.e. immediate stopping is not required.

Lisco manufactures spindle, toothed belt or linear motor axes simply or as multi-axis systems and equips them with ACE structural dampers to protect the end positions and the overall structure. © Lisco

At Lisco from Bargteheide, the tubes are used for the following task: as powerful machine elements in various linear axes, handling and other motion systems, they ensure that there is no uncontrolled impact of the masses in the end positions in the event of an operating or software error. The same would theoretically be possible in the event of a power failure. Each of these scenarios would lead to cost-intensive repairs and downtime. As the linear axes at the Schleswig-Holstein-based company Lisco are generally supplied with profile rails or roller guides, it made sense to find a solution that could be fitted to the left and right of the respective rail or guide. The requirement profile also included a compact design and simple installation.

Self-adjusting small shock absorbers from ACE are maintenance-free and available with various accessories and connection parts. © ACE shock absorber

Together with ACE, the low-cost alternative of the TA17-7 tube was identified as the damping element of choice compared to the aforementioned dampers. This is characterized by a degressive damping characteristic, which results in high energy absorption at the start of the stroke. Despite their compact design and low weight of just 40 g, these tubes are reliable machine elements capable of dissipating up to 9 Nm per stroke at ambient temperatures of -40 to 90 °C. This specification applies to emergency situations. This specification applies in an emergency. If the design provides for approaching the end positions as a rule, 6 Nm/stroke is still permissible. In comparison to alternative solutions such as other solid dampers or springs, their long service life of up to 1 million load changes then comes into its own. This means that they last up to 20 times longer than dampers with solutions made of urethane, up to 10 times longer than rubber dampers and up to five times longer than steel springs. They can be attached very quickly and without complications using the screw provided.

One advantage that applies to both Tubus and small shock absorbers from ACE is that they are easy to integrate. However, the fact that both product ranges are available with special strokes, characteristics, spring rates, sizes and materials on request also makes the designer's work easier.

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