Apex Dynamics brings the same comprehensive technical and service approach to Compact AC and DC Geared Motors
Machine builders rarely select a geared motor simply by looking at power and output speed. The right solution depends on torque, ratio, mounting arrangement, available space, supply voltage, duty requirements and the mechanical configuration of the machine.
It is this application-led approach that Apex Dynamics is bringing to the compact geared motor market with its SGM range of AC and DC motors and geared motors.
The range significantly extends the Apex Dynamics offering beyond its established precision servo gearboxes, rack and pinion systems and related motion-control products, bringing the same emphasis on product choice, technical support, availability and customer service to lower-power machine applications.
The SGM series is designed for applications ranging from small conveyors and sealing and filling machines to label heads, checkweighers and vision systems, particularly where DC, single-phase AC or three-phase AC power is required.
A comprehensive range
A key strength of Apex Dynamics’ precision gearbox business is the breadth of its offering, with more than 50 ranges of precision gearboxes alongside rack and pinion systems and couplings. A similar philosophy underpins the SGM programme, giving machine designers considerable freedom to configure a solution around the application.
K Series AC motors are available with single-phase and three-phase voltage options and power ratings from 6W to 200W. Features include sealed motor shafts to protect against contamination, efficient heat-dissipation housings and optimised speed-torque characteristics. Options include brakes and forced cooling, with compact sizes starting at just 60mm square.
For DC applications, the GDM Series provides multiple voltage options and power ratings from 10W to 400W, with sizes beginning at 55mm diameter. Brake and tacho feedback options further extend the choice.
This breadth enables customers to approach Apex with an application requirement rather than simply a predetermined motor part number.
Gearbox flexibility
Selecting the motor is only half the equation. Gearbox configuration can be equally important, particularly where machine designers need to minimise equipment dimensions or fit a drive into a restricted space.
The SGM programme therefore includes the G Series gearbox range, using high-precision helical gears in aluminium housings. Inline gearboxes provide ratios from 3:1 to 500:1, while right-angle configurations extend from 5:1 to 2500:1.
Designers can choose between inline, right-angle solid-shaft and right-angle hollow-shaft configurations, together with different shaft, bore and mounting options. The objective is to select a geared-motor configuration that fits the machine rather than redesigning the machine around the drive.
From components to application support
Apex intends to bring the same technically orientated approach used in its precision transmission business to compact AC and DC geared motors.
Apparently simple applications can have very different requirements. A small conveyor may need high starting torque and continuous operation; a labelling mechanism may demand compact dimensions and controlled speed; while a filling machine may require a right-angle or hollow-shaft drive because of restricted installation space.
The breadth of the SGM range allows these factors to be considered during selection rather than forcing customers towards a one-size-fits-all solution.
The configurable system can also help OEM machine builders standardise their designs. Different versions of a machine may require different voltages, powers, ratios or mechanical arrangements, yet potentially remain within the same product family.
Extending the Apex service philosophy
Ultimately, the SGM range is about more than adding another product category.
Apex Dynamics has built its UK proposition around reducing the technical and commercial risks associated with specifying motion-control products through extensive product choice, application support, replacement options, rapid delivery commitments and a five-year warranty on its servo gearbox and rack-and-pinion products.
Compact AC and DC geared motors extend that customer-focused philosophy into another important area of machine design, while allowing existing customers to source more of their mechanical drive requirements from a supplier already familiar with their machines and applications.
With power ratings from just a few watts to 400W, AC and DC alternatives, extensive ratios and inline, right-angle, solid-shaft and hollow-shaft configurations, the proposition is straightforward: the application may be smaller and the motor less powerful, but the technical support and service behind it should be every bit as comprehensive.
