Hepcomotion presents the GFX-R guidance system for the Beckhoff XTS

2024-04-28

Over the last decade, HepcoMotion and Beckhoff have forged a strong relationship, resulting in the market-leading SCT (Smart Conveyor Technology) product in the form of the GFX/XTS system.

In this time, there has been a large adoption of SCT. As early adopters have seen significant benefits in performance, shelf life, capabilities and flexibility, the GFX/XTS has become their go-to product for smart conveyor technology (SCT) in many industries, including pharmaceuticals. , food handling and processing, mid-line and end-of-line packaging, electric vehicle (EV) battery assembly and handling, inspection and product sorting operations. With thousands of meters of GFX/XTS on the market, performing year after year, industry confidence in the product is very high.

Incredibly flexible, Beckhoff’s or removal of workstations as necessary. Hepco’s GFX acts as a transport track, mechanically guiding the movers along the motor modules. It absorbs the considerable forces acting on the movers, ensuring precise alignment and high-precision bending resistance.

Growing market demand for higher loads

Intelligent transportation systems are experiencing strong growth, marked by a notable increase in applications with higher loads. In response to this market demand, HepcoMotion is expanding its range of guidance solutions for the Beckhoff XTS with the new GFX-r. A system that provides movement in rectangular paths. Based on the existing GFX design and incorporating the flexibility and precision inherent in GFX/XTS technology, the curved segments have been eliminated, allowing the transport of payloads of up to 40 kg.

The technology that makes it possible

GFX-r is the integration of the TMS (Track Management System) from Beckhoff and Hepco and the greater drive capacity of the 7 and 10 pole XTS magnets. By eliminating the curved sections, a larger mover can be used, powered by Beckhoff’s larger magnet configurations. The TMS completes the rectangular path, transitioning the movers between guides.

Higher payload capacity

With an impressive bearing capacity, the GFX-r is ready to make a significant impact in many industries, such as automotive and electric vehicles, aerospace and logistics. The GFX-r is ideal for machine cells incorporating robots, power tools and sensors, as well as automated assembly and inspection systems. The possibilities are endless. In fact, any application with loads up to 40 kg, significant loading moments and high stresses during the process can benefit greatly.

The absence of curved sections in the motor allows the movers to be stronger, more powerful and with a larger mounting platform, while maintaining precision, durability and agility. The movers can reach speeds of 4 m/s, payloads of up to 40 kg and pressing loads of up to 1,500 N. In addition, movers with a greater number of magnets also reduce heating losses by up to 60%. The GFX-r is available in 4 and 6 bearing versions for greater strength and stability.

Seamless integration of knowledge for optimal performance

GFX-r uses the existing parts and know-how that have made the GFX/XTS the industry-leading solution, including GFX-PRT2 straight guide hardware, baseplates and motor mounts, as well as the XTS and the Beckhoff TwinCAT system. The GFX-r offers 10 µm repeatability, even when carrying a 30 kg payload at a speed of 3 m/s.