Zip Chain Actuators (ZCA) by Tsubaki: Efficiency and Versatility

Introduction

Linear actuators play a crucial role in various industries, converting energy into controlled linear motion. One standout innovation in this field is the Zip Chain Actuator (ZCA) by Tsubaki. Drawing on over a century of roller chain expertise, Tsubaki engineers have reimagined traditional linear actuators, creating a revolutionary device that combines efficiency, speed, and versatility.

Understanding Linear Actuators

A linear actuator is a device that transforms energy, electric, hydraulic, or mechanical, into controlled linear motion. Operating along a single axis, these actuators generate either pushing or pulling movements. In a common type of linear actuator, electrical energy is first converted into rotational mechanical energy through a motor, which is then transformed into linear motion.

Linear actuators vary in size and function, ranging from small units with 10 mm per stroke to larger models capable of strokes measuring several meters and generating significant force. Their versatility allows them to be applied in diverse settings, from industrial robotics to home entertainment systems. 

Zip Chain Actuators

Zip Chain Actuators (ZCA) redefine traditional electric actuators with a revolutionary approach, offering the same functionality innovatively. Leveraging Tsubaki's extensive 100-year roller chain expertise, engineers have developed a unique "zipping" actuator that enhances efficiency and control.

In the ZCA design, a motor-driven shaft turns a specially modified sprocket, driving interlocking chains instead of the threaded ball screw typical in traditional electric linear actuators. This strategic replacement with flexible and durable chains results in a significant reduction in the space required for a given stroke length. As a result, ZCAs provide powerful control capabilities within a compact housing, showcasing a remarkable advancement in linear actuator technology.

The ZCA housing contains a segmented roller chain that extends into a rigid actuator arm when zipped together by a specially modified sprocket. The motor's rotation zips the chain, creating a robust push-pull actuator rod with a smooth and powerful stroke. Reversing the motor draws the chain back, allowing for fast and efficient multi-point stopping action.

 

 

Advantages of ZCAs

• Faster Operation: ZCAs operate up to 10 times faster than comparable hydraulic lift cylinders, reaching speeds of up to 1,000 mm/sec.

• Greater Control: The use of servo motors enables precise control of motor position, resulting in accurate multi-stop actuation.

• Installation Flexibility: ZCAs accommodate lifting, horizontal, and hanging installations, offering configurations impractical with traditional actuators.

• Energy Efficiency: The brake motor and interlocking actuator arm allow loads to be held in place with no electrical input, leading to potential energy savings of up to 50%.

• Extended Service Life: Resisting wear and chain elongation over an expected lifetime travel of 4,000 km, ZCAs boast a longer service life. Their streamlined design simplifies maintenance and installation, contributing to efficiency improvements.

Applications of ZCAs

ZCAs find applications in a range of horizontal and vertical push and pull operations, including stacking, positioning, sorting, and more.

Stacking and Unstacking Operations

For stacking and unstacking operations, standard Zip Chain Actuators (ZCAs) showcase their capabilities with a maximum lifting capacity of 204 kg, a stroke length of 1,000 mm, and an impressive maximum speed of 30 m/min.

Horizontal and Vertical Push and Pull Applications

For horizontal and vertical push and pull tasks, ZCAs provide exceptional versatility. They can be easily installed in either a vertical or horizontal orientation, opening up a multitude of possibilities for positioning and motion control applications. These ZCAs are typically equipped with a servo motor, ensuring faster actuation speeds of 60 m/min, 1,000 mm strokes, all achieved within a swift 1 second per cycle.

High-Speed Sorting Efficiency

In high-speed sorting applications, ZCAs prove their mettle by delivering precise, multipoint stopping capabilities at an impressive pace of 60 m/min. This ensures efficient and accurate sorting processes, highlighting the adaptability and high-performance features of Zip Chain Actuators in dynamic industrial settings.

Conclusion

For over 100 years, Tsubaki has been synonymous with excellence in industrial motion control. The Zip Chain Actuator represents the latest stride in their commitment to innovation. Leveraging decades of energy transfer and roller chain experience, Tsubaki continues to redefine linear actuators for the 21st century, providing versatile solutions that benefit industrial motion control customers across various industries.

HVH Industrial Solutions is an authorized distributor of Tsubaki and we offer a wide range of their products. We work closely with their engineering team to provide superior customer service and engineering support. 

If you have any questions, write to us via live chat or call or send us a quote request. The HVH team is always ready to help you.