At the recent HANNOVER MESSE 2019, Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG once again provided some real highlights. The automation and motion specialist is confident of redefining drive technology with its eXtended planar motor system.

The free-floating planar movers making up the XPlanar system travel over planar tiles arranged in any desired layout at up to four meters per second without any jerking or contact. In addition to keeping the movers levitated, electromagnetic forces also control their displacement over the planar tiles for precise and highly dynamic positioning. This approach maximizes the flexibility for users in terms of layout, architecture and positioning while also optimizing the simplification of machinery and equipment. Contact- and wear-free transportation prevents emissions resulting from friction and also any contamination of equipment by the items being transported. The solution is even designed to move liquids without spilling them. These features make the XPlanar system an ideal new drive concept for general machine manufacturing. What’s more, a hygienic design version of the planar motor system with appropriate surface finishing is suitable for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries, including vacuum and cleanroom environments.