Selection of linear motors for high-speed packaging machines

Specific design issues for automatic packaging machines are discussed, concerning the possible application of electric linear motors, the expected benefits and the main drawbacks. A purposely-defined software tool for the selection of these motors is then illustrated. This tool leads the designer to a systematic definition of all the parameters related to the application on high speed packaging machines and allows a step-by-step choice of the proper actuator, by means of a database where the motors available on the market have been classified and parameterized. Two application cases are then presented and discussed, related to a lifting device in a wrapping machine for home paper-products and to a mobile hot-melt glue dispenser in a box-forming machine.