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Advantages of Piezoelectric Positioning Systems
Unlimited ResolutionA piezoelectric actuator (Piezo) can produce extremely fine position changes down to the subnanometer range. The smallest changes in operating voltage are converted into smooth movements. Motion is not influenced by stiction/friction or threshold voltages.
Large Force Generation
PZTs can generate a force of several 10,000 N. PI offers units that can bear loads up to several tons and position within a range of more than 100 µm with subnanometer resolution (see "Piezo Actuators" section).
Fast Expansion
Piezo actuators offer the fastest response time available (microsecond time constants). Acceleration rates of more than 10,000 g's can be obtained.
No Magnetic Fields
The piezo effect is related to electrical fields. Piezo actuators don't produce magnetic fields nor are they affected by magnetic fields. They are specially well suited for applications where magnetic fields cannot be tolerated.
Low Power Consumption
The piezo effect directly converts electrical energy into motion only absorbing electrical energy during movement. Static operation, even holding heavy loads, does not consume power.
No Wear and Tear
A piezo actuator has neither gears nor rotating shafts. Its displacement is based on solid state dynamics and shows no wear and tear. PI has conducted endurance tests on PZTs in which no change in performance was observed after several billion cycles.
Vacuum and Clean Room Compatible
Piezo actuators are ceramic elements that do not need any lubricants and show no wear and abrasion. This makes them clean room compatible and ideally suited for Ultra High Vacuum applications.
Operation at Cryogenic Temperatures
The piezo effect is based on electric fields and functions down to almost zero Kelvin (with reduced specifications).
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