ML Series
Miniature Linear Actuators

ML Series Overview

1. Rail/Housing

SIMO® process ensures precision mounting, accurate installation and lightweight composition. Ceramic Coated Body for corrosion resistance and long life.

2. Nut

Brass Inserts for system mounting and integrity.
Built-in magnet accommodates home, limit and position sensors.
Anti-Backlash Nut (Optional) for applications which require high bi-directional accuracy and repeatability.

3. Lead Screw

Large diameter, antifriction coated screw allows for longer lengths by decreasing screw whip and increasing column strength. 1 mm, 2 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 16 mm, 25 mm, and 38 mm leads.

4. Motor

Stepper motors available in standard NEMA 11, 14, 17, 23, metric frame sizes or add your own.

Servo motors available in 40 and 60 mm motors.

ML Series Lead Screw Linear Actuator | PBC Linear

5. Seal Strip

Ultra-wear-resistant MDS nylon prevents particulates or contaminants from entering or exiting actuator.

6. Motor Mount Adapter (MLC)

Adapter plate designed to fit any manufacturer’s motor. Compensates for variations in pilot diameter, depth, shaft diameter, length and mounting screw patterns.

7. Motor Mount

Specially constructed with an optimized length, resulting in an overall shorter system with PBC Linear™ brand stepper motors.

8. Internal Coupling

Rigid polymer insert coupling for increased smoothness and minimal backlash.

9. “Dovetail” Style Carriage

PTFE polymer material has fourteen plain bearing surfaces providing low friction for smooth and quiet linear motion. Notched “dovetail” carriage provides easier alignment and assembly. Features extra mounting holes for ease of installation and multi-axis assemblies.

10. Linear Guide Supports

Provide increased load and moment capacities and overall rigidity to the system. Available single or dual rails with one or two runnerblocks per rail.

11. Dovetail Clamps

Dovetail Clamps secure unit on all four surfaces. Two screw design helps ensure quick and easy alignment during installation.

Thrust bearings provide high stiffness and inscreased thrust in linear actuators | PBC Linear

12. Thrust Bearings

Duplexed back to back installation of deep groove ball bearings provides high stiffness and allows for increased thrust loads, rotational speed and repeatability.

ML Series Linear Actuators

ML Advantage

Small, Compact Profile - 28 x 32 mm
Patent Pending SIMO® Process Ensures precision mounting, accurate installation and lightweight composition.
Lead Screw Driven - High accuracy and precise repeatability
Multi-Axis Configurations
Long Travel Lengths - Up to 650 mm

MLC Series Motor Mount Only

MLC Series Linear Actuator Motor Mount | PBC Linear

Specially designed motor mounts and couplings for easy mounting and extended life

MLD Series Hand Driven (Shaft or Knob)

MLD Series Linear Actuator Hand Driven | PBC Linear

Adjustable hand operated knob and brake for precision control.

MLB Series Motor Driven

MLB Series Linear Actuator Motor Driven | PBC Linear

Pre-mounted stepper or servo motors.

Accessories

Motor Mount Assembly

Riser Plates & Side Motor Mount Cover

Linear Actuator Riser Plates and Side Motor Mount Cover | PBC Linear

Seal Strip & Sensors

Linear Actuator Seal Strip and Sensors | PBC Linear

Stepper & Servo Motors

Linear Actuator Stepper and Servo Motors | PBC Linear

SIMO - Simultaneous Integral Milling Operation

"SIMO process uses synchronized cutters to eliminate built-in extrusion variances | PBC Linear"

Machine tools are built on precision machined castings or weldments.
Why shouldn’t your actuator be built the same?

PBC Linear has revolutionized traditional machining with the patent pending SIMO™ (Simultaneous Integral Milling Operation).

SIMO process uses synchronized cutters, eliminating built-in extrusion variances by machining all critical edges concurrently in one pass. This ensures tight tolerances, limited variance and a remarkably straight and repeatable surface at negligible additional cost!

SIMO process machines all critical edges concurrently in one pass | PBC Linear

Profile View

Typical Aluminum Extrusion Issues

The typical aluminum extrusion process produces a natural bow, twist and variance. Costly straightening and aligning is traditionally used to combat this variance, resulting in a semi-straight aluminum extrusion that drives the cost up.

Patent Pending Machining Process
High Precision Mounting Surfaces
Tight Tolerances ± 0.025mm (0.001 in)

As tolerances get tighter, the cost of machining with conventional processes increases dramatically over the SIMO process. | PBC Linear

SIMO® (Simultaneous Integral Milling Operation) process from PBC Linear eliminates bows in rails.

SIMO® (Simultaneous Integral Milling Operation) process from PBC Linear eliminates twist in rails.

SIMO® (Simultaneous Integral Milling Operation) process from PBC Linear eliminates warps in rails.

ML Advantage

Using the machine tooled precision and rigid surfaces sustained by the SIMO™ process, the ML’s bridge gantry design can support 1 or 2 linear guides on the sides of the ML.

ML Series Linear Actuator's bridge gantry design can support 1 or 2 linear guides on its side | PBC Linear

ML Series Linear Actuators offer increased load capacities and sustain stability | PBC Linear

These supports work together to increase load capacities and sustain stability while utilizing recirculating caged-ball technology to provide smooth and quiet linear motion guidance.

Technical Data

ML Series Linear Actuators Axis | PBC Linear

\( \displaystyle \frac{Fy_{A}}{Fy} + \frac{Fz_A}{Fz} + \frac{Mx_A}{Mx} + \frac{My_A}{My} + \frac{Mz_A}{Mz} \leq 1 \)

Center of Gravity for Moment Calculations

ML Series Linear Actuator Center of Gravity | PBC Linear

External Dovetail Easy Sketch

ML Series Linear Actuator External Dovetail | PBC Linear

ML Series Linear Actuator External Dovetail Drawing | PBC Linear

ML SERIES - Carriage only
Size		mm	28 x 32	in	1.10 x 1.26
MAX Load - Lite Preload - anti-backlash - Standard	Fx	N	44 267	lbf	10 60
	Fy		107		24
	Fz		178		40
MAX Moments	Mx	Nm	1.4	lbf-in	12.4
	My		1.4		12.4
	Mz		1.4		12.4
Bending Moment of Inertia (second moment of area)	Iy	cm⁴	2.4	in⁴	0.058
Bending Moment of Inertia (second moment of area)	Iz	cm⁴	4.4	in⁴	0.106
Base Weight without Motor		Kg	0.060	lbf	0.130
Add for 100 mm of stroke			0.150		0.340
Total Carriage Mass			0.020		0.044
Total Carriage Mass & Top Plate			0.059		0.130
Coefficient of Friction		0.19
MAX Speed		m/s	1	in/s	75
MAX Stroke Length		mm	650	in	25.6
MIN Stroke Length			5		0.200
Nominal Screw Diameter			10.0		0.375
Max RPM		3000
No Load Torque Nut	- Lite Preload - anti-backlash	Nm	0.0565	lbf-in	0.500
	- Normal Preload - anti-backlash		0.1060		0.940
	- Standard		0.0070		0.062
Linear Guide Supports	- Single Linear Guide	Nm	0.017	lbf-in	0.15
Linear Guide Supports	- Dual Linear Guides	Nm	0.034	lbf-in	0.30
Seal Strip	- with Seal Strip	Nm	0.028	lbf-in	0.25
Seal Strip	- without Seal Strip	Nm	0	lbf-in	0
Screw Lead Accuracy*		mm/mm	0.0006	in/in	0.0006
Normal Operating Temperature (Wider ranges available)	MIN	°C	18	°F	32
Normal Operating Temperature (Wider ranges available)	MAX	°C	98	°F	176

*Higher accuracies are available to 0.0001 mm/mm (in/in). Contact manufacturer for details. Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Dimensional Data

ML Series Linear Actuator Dimensions | PBC Linear

NOTE: BODY LENGTH = STROKE + *CARRIAGE LENGTH + (2X OVER TRAVEL) + 18mm

ML Series Linear Actuator Dimensions Top View| PBC Linear

CARRIAGE WITH DOVETAIL

ML Series Linear Actuator Dimensions End View| PBC Linear

RECOMMENDED
OVERTRAVEL PER SIDE

Knob or Hand Crank = 5mm
Stepper Motor = 10mm
Servo Motor = 20mm

How to Calculate Body Length

Enter 19 mm
Select (5, 10 or 20 mm) for overtravel on idle end (See recommended overtravel above.)
Specify stroke length in mm
Select (51 or 71 mm) for carriage length
Select (5, 10 or 20 mm) for overtravel on idle end (See recommended overtravel above.)
Add amounts together and enter SUBTOTAL
Enter TOTAL BODY LENGTH (Round to nearest 10 mm)
When ORDERING enter TOTAL BODY LENGTH in BODY LENGTH column.

Performance Data

The load rating and system speed must both be accounted for when sizing a lead screw system. The nut threads and screw threads form a plane bearing system.

The PV limit of a polymer material is the point at which friction-generated heat can no longer be expelled at a rate to prevent the material from overheating. Such overheating while under stress can cause permanent deformation of the material. Ignoring how the system’s speed and loading relate to the nut material’s PV rating can lead to dramatically shorter thread life. The primary modes of failure for lead screw systems are wear and PV. By staying within the PV envelope of the screw and nut, one can ensure long life of the nut without premature wear.

ML Series Linear Actuator PV Rating | PBC Linear

ML Series Linear Actuator Maximum Thrust Load | PBC Linear

Torque to Raise Load

\( \displaystyle T_L \ (\text{Nm}) = \frac{\text{Load (N)} \cdot \text{Lead (mm)}}{2\pi \cdot \text{Efficiency} \cdot 1000} \)

\( \displaystyle T_L \ (\text{in-lbf}) = \frac{\text{Load (lbf)} \cdot \text{Lead (in)}}{2\pi \cdot \text{Efficiency}} \)

Performance Characteristics		Lead Screw mm (in)
Performance Characteristics		38 (1.50)	25 (1.00)	10 (.400)	3 (.125)	1 (.039)
Max, Travel Speed	mm/s (in/s)	1905 (75)	1270 (50)	508 (20)	159 (6.25)	50 (1.95)
Screw Diameter	mm (in)	10 (0.375)	10 (0.375)	10 (0.375)	10 (0.375)	10 (0.375)
Screw Efficiency	(See formula to right)	81%	82%	77%	57%	26%

Distance Between Supports

Maximum Cantilevered Length

ML Series Linear Actuator Max Cantilevered Length Top Load | PBC Linear

ML Series Linear Actuator Max Cantilevered Length Side Load | PBC Linear

Maximum Travel Speeds

ML Series Linear Actuator Max Travel Speeds | PBC Linear

80% of Critical Speed

Ordering Options

ML Options Provide You with a Perfect Fit System

ML Series Linear Actuator Components | PBC Linear

Lead Screw

Large 10 mm diameter lead screw reduces whip and increases column strength allowing longer stroke lengths
Lead options*: 1, 2, 5, 10, 12, 16, and 25 mm. 3 mm (0.125’’), 10 mm (0.400’’), 25 mm (1’’), 38 (1.5’’)
*Contact manufacturer for other available sizes
Nominal Lead Screw Diameter = 10 mm (0.375”)
Screw Inertia = 4.169 x 10⁻⁶ kg-m²/m (1.5 x 10⁻⁵ oz.-in.sec.²/in.)
Lead Screw Length = Body Length + 32.27 mm

Nut Type

Standard nut Fx=262 N (60 lb) or anti-backlash nut Fx=44 N (10 lb)
Optional anti-backlash nut - ideal in applications requiring high bi-directional accuracy and repeatability
Magnet is built-in for use with home and position sensors
Anti-Backlash light pre-load Nut limits Fx linear thrust force capacity

"Optional anti-backlash nut is ideal in applications requiring high accuracy and repeatability | PBC Linear"

Seal Strip with Carriage Bracket

Ultra wear-resistant molybdenum disulfide impregnated nylon
Prevents debris from entering or exiting actuator
Seal strip is 725mm in length (Can be cut shorter using sharp pair of scissors.)

ML Series Linear Actuator Seal Strip Dimension | PBC Linear

ML Series Linear Actuator Seal Strip with Bracket | PBC Linear

ML Actuator Build, Mount, Use

Build Your ML Actuator

Step 1: Configure Your System Axis

Determine if you need an external linear guide for support
Calculate the body length

ML Series Linear Actuator System Axis | PBC Linear

Step 2: Choose the Drive Method

Motor pre-mounted and tested by PBC Linear? \(\Rightarrow\) MLB
Ready to mount your own motor? \(\Rightarrow\) MLC
Driven by hand? \(\Rightarrow\) MLD

ML Series Linear Actuator Drive Method | PBC Linear

Step 3: Choose How to Mount Axis

Choose dovetail clamps or riser plates (Use riser plates with NEMA 17 and 23 motors)

ML Series Linear Actuator Mount Axis | PBC Linear

Step 4: Choose End of Travel and Home Limit Switches/Sensors

Determine mounting type/location (bracket type)
Choose from list of compatible sensors

ML Series Linear Actuator Limit Switches/Sensors | PBC Linear

Repeat 1-5 for Each Axis

Step 5: Order Your System 1-800-962-8979 or 1-815-389-5600

Questions?
Call an Application Engineer
1-888-777-0556

Multi-Axis Mounting

ML actuators are designed to perform well in X Y and other Cartesian arrangements. The actuator body forms a strong beam with higher moment loading capacity. Special dovetail slots on all sides allow the actuators to be mounted on their bottom surface or on either side.

Carriage brackets and special wedge mounting clamps allow for precise and rigid mounting arrangements. Linear guides can be installed on one or both sides of the actuator with one or two runner blocks on each rail for greater rigidity in gantry applications.

Multi-axis gantries can also be created by combining the ML with other actuators such as the PL or MT Series.

X Y

X and Y Linear Actuator ML Series | PBC Linear

X Z

X and Z Linear Actuator ML Series | PBC Linear

X Y Z

X, Y, and Z Linear Actuator ML Series | PBC Linear

Superior Multi-Axis Mounting for Compact Applications

Medical
Biotech
Instrument Automation
Packaging
Pick & Place
Semi-conductor
Scanning

MULTI-AXIS MTB Series with MLB

Multi- Axis Linear Actuator ML Series | PBC Linear

ML Applications

ML Series Linear Actuators ensure accuracy and precision in medical applications | PBC Linear

ML Series Linear Actuators provide high thrust in a small footprint for autmation applications | PBC Linear

The ML miniature actuator has a combination of compactness and (60 lbf) 265 N pound thrust power gives this actuator an edge for automation applications where space is critical. Plus, the SIMO® machined rail surface and zero backlash lead screw assembly ensures accuracy and precision for syringe pumps and optical control applications.

Linear Guide Supports

The ML series features the unique option for dual external linear guides (also available with single linear guide option). These re-circulating ball runner blocks assure high speed precision as well as enhanced load capacities and stability.

Support Options to Create Variable
Levels of Performance

ML Series Linear Actuator Linear Guide Supports | PBC Linear

Technical Data Linear Guide Supports				(1) Single		(2) Dual			(1) Single		(2) Dual
				# of runner blocks on each guide					# of runner blocks on each guide
				1	2	1	2		1	2	1	2
MAX Load	Anti-Backlash Lite Preload	Fx	N	44	44	44	44	lbf	10	10	10	10
	Anti-Backlash Normal Preload			89	89	89	89		20	20	20	20
	Standard Nut			267	267	267	267		60	60	60	60
		Fy		180	250	445	890		40	56	100	200
		Fz		267	356	445	890		60	80	100	200
MAX Moments		Mx	Nm	1.8	3.6	8.6	18	lbf-in	16	32	76	160
		My		1.8	5.0	3.6	10		16	44	32	88
		Mz		1.8	5.0	3.6	10		16	44	32	88
Bending Moment of Inertia (Second Moment of Area)		Iy	cm⁴	2.4	2.4	2.4	2.4	in⁴	0.058	0.058	0.058	0.058
Bending Moment of Inertia (Second Moment of Area)		Iz	cm⁴	4.4	4.4	4.4	4.4	in⁴	0.106	0.106	0.106	0.106
Base Weight without Motor			Kg	0.127	0.136	0.195	0.205	lbf	0.280	0.300	0.430	0.450
Add for 100 mm of Stroke				0.180	0.180	0.210	0.210	lbf	0.400	0.400	0.460	0.460
Total Carriage Mass				0.109	0.117	0.159	0.175	lbm	0.240	0.257	0.350	0.385
Coefficent of Friction				0.190		0.010			0.190		0.010

Notes:

Moment arms for calculating moments should be measured from the center of the extrusion
Limit switches must be used in order to prevent the carriage from contacting the actuator end blocks, resulting in damage
Servo drive system, recommended overtravel of 20 mm
Stepper motors or manual hand cranks system, add 5 mm of over-travel

Dimensional Data

Single Linear Guide Supports

ML Series Linear Actuator with Linear Guide Supports | PBC Linear

INCLUDES:
(1) rail, (1) runner block & aluminum alloy L shaped carriage bracket
- or -
(1) rail, (2) runner blocks & aluminum alloy L shaped carriage bracket

Single Linear Guide Supports Dimensions End View | PBC Linear

Single Linear Guide Supports Dimensions | PBC Linear

Dual Linear Guide Supports

ML Series Linear Actuator with Double Linear Guide Supports | PBC Linear

INCLUDES:
(2) rails, (1) runner block & aluminum alloy U shaped carriage bracket
- or -
(2) rails, (2) runner blocks & aluminum alloy U shaped carriage bracket

Double Linear Guide Supports Dimensions End View | PBC Linear

Double Linear Guide Supports Dimensions | PBC Linear

MLC Series
Motor Mount Only

PBC Linear stepper motors do not require a spacer due to the shorter shaft length. A spacer is required for any other manufacturer’s motor. The spacer compensates for several dimensions which commonly vary amongst motor manufacturers (shaft diameter, shaft length, pilot diameter, pilot depth, bolt hole diameter, bolt type).

Includes motor mount with coupling
Includes motor spacer (if required)
Precision machined body
Small, compact design
Smooth and quiet operation
High acceleration, speed and rigidity

MLC Ordering Guide

Series

Linear Guide Supports*

Leads

Nut Type

Seal Strip

# of Carriages

Body Length

Motor Location

Motor Frame Size

Shaft OD

Coupling Material

Spacer Config

Config

MLC028D

XXXX

Series

ML Series with motor mount 28 x 32 mm

Linear Guide Supports*

0 = No External Rail

1 = (1) Rail, (1) Runner Block - XY-2 Brkt (R)

2 = (1) Rail, (2) Runner Blocks - XY-2 Brkt (R)

3 = (2) Rail, (1) Runner Block - XY-3 Brkt

4 = (2) Rail, (2) Runner Blocks - XY-3 Brkt

5 = (1) Rail, (1) Runner Block - XY-2 Brkt (L)

6 = (1) Rail, (2) Runner Blocks - XY-2 Brkt (L)

7 = No Seal Strip - XY-1 Brkt

*(L) = Left (R) = Right

Leads

AH = 1 mm

AG = 2 mm

AX = 5 mm

AJ = 10 mm

BD = 12 mm

AF = 16 mm

AW = 25 mm