Irish Tech Firm PI Expands Precision Motion Control with New Space-Grade Actuators
Dublin, Ireland – PI (Physik Instrumente) LP, a leading global innovator in precision motion control and nanopositioning technology, is making waves again with the launch of its enhanced PICMA® Plus actuator series. Building on the success of its established PICMA® piezo stack actuator range, these new actuators offer significantly improved performance and reliability, particularly for demanding applications where space-grade resilience is paramount.
What are PICMA® Actuators and Why are They Important?
At their core, PICMA® actuators are piezoelectric stack actuators. Piezoelectric materials generate movement when an electric field is applied. PI's actuators leverage this principle to deliver incredibly precise and repeatable motion, often measured in nanometers – billionths of a meter. This level of precision is crucial in a wide range of industries including:
- Semiconductor Manufacturing: For positioning wafers and other critical components with extreme accuracy.
- Microscopy: Enabling high-resolution imaging and manipulation of samples.
- Optics: Fine-tuning lenses and mirrors for optimal performance.
- Aerospace & Defence: Where stability and reliability under harsh conditions are essential.
The PICMA® Plus Advantage: Built for the Toughest Environments
The PICMA® Plus series takes this performance to the next level. The enhancements are designed to meet the rigorous demands of space applications, but also benefit users in other challenging environments. Key improvements include:
- Enhanced Durability: Improved materials and construction techniques ensure greater resistance to vibration, shock, and extreme temperatures.
- Increased Reliability: PI’s stringent quality control and testing processes guarantee extended operational life.
- Optimized Performance: Refinements to the actuator design deliver smoother, more precise motion and improved force capabilities.
- Customisation Options: PI offers a wide range of customisation options to tailor the actuators to specific application requirements.
Why Space-Grade Matters
Developing actuators that can withstand the harsh conditions of space – vacuum, extreme temperatures, and intense radiation – requires exceptional engineering. The fact that PI’s PICMA® Plus actuators are designed with these requirements in mind highlights their inherent robustness and quality. This also translates to enhanced performance and reliability in terrestrial applications where high precision and durability are needed.
Looking Ahead
PI’s commitment to innovation continues to push the boundaries of precision motion control. The PICMA® Plus series represents a significant advancement, reinforcing PI’s position as a global leader in this critical technology. The company is actively working with customers across various industries to explore new applications and unlock the full potential of these advanced actuators.
Learn More: Visit PI (Physik Instrumente) LP for detailed specifications and to discuss your specific needs.