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Breaking with traditional linear actuator principles – Advantages for nanopositioning in optics, astronomy, aerospace, semiconductor technologies.
PI, a global leader in precision motion control and nanopositioning solutions, provides a large selection of piezo ceramic linear actuators for different size, speed, and force applications. At the top end of the force spectrum is the N-216 PiezoWalk® Linear Actuator, a high-load, high precision linear actuator designed for applications that require many millimeters of travel, high force, and extremely stable nanometer-class positioning.
The N-216 provides 20 mm travel, push/pull force generation up to 600 N, and holding force up to 800 N, while still supporting ultra-fine positioning resolution. Depending on operating mode and feedback configuration, the actuator can achieve open-loop resolution down to 0.03 nm and closed-loop encoder resolution of 5 nm. Its self-locking design allows the actuator to hold position without continuous power, reducing heat generation and improving long-term position stability in sensitive systems.
At the core of the N-216 is PI’s PiezoWalk® ceramic motor drive principle. Instead of using a conventional rotary motor, screw, or gear train as used in traditional linear actuators, motion is generated by coordinated piezo elements that act directly on a linear ceramic runner. The piezo elements clamp, shear, release, and return in a controlled walking sequence, producing precise incremental motion over millimeter-range travel. This design combines the long travel capability of a traditional motorized actuator with the fine positioning behavior of piezo technology.
For applications that require extremely small corrections rather than continuous stepping motion, the actuator can also operate in a continuous dithering and pico-positioning mode. This enables very small, highly controlled movements for alignment, stabilization, drift compensation, and precision adjustment tasks.
The combination of high force, long travel, compact design, self-locking stability, and piezo-level resolution makes the N-216 well suited for demanding applications in:
- Optics
- Aerospace
- Astronomy
- Metrology
- Nanopositioning
- Semiconductor technology
In optical systems and telescope instrumentation, it can be used for mirror positioning, active optics, alignment correction, and compensation of thermal or gravitational drift. In semiconductor and nanotechnology applications, it supports precision inspection, wafer metrology, lithography-related positioning, process control, and high-stability automation. A scientific article explains an application for the ITER nuclear fusion reactor.
The PiezoWalk® principle also provides advantages in environments where conventional electromagnetic motors or lubricated mechanical drives may not be ideal. The actuator’s direct-drive piezo concept supports clean, precise, non-magnetic motion and can be adapted for demanding system requirements such as vacuum or cleanroom operation.
Summary
The N-216 extends piezo precision into a force and travel range that is difficult to achieve with conventional actuator technologies. It gives engineers a compact, self-locking, high-stability actuator for precision motion tasks where nanometer-class positioning, high load capacity, and environmental compatibility must work together.
For applications where position stability, load capacity, and ultra-fine motion control are equally important, the N-216 NEXLINE® PiezoWalk® Linear Actuator provides a powerful alternative to traditional motor-driven linear actuators.
More information: N-216 High-Force PiezoWalk® Linear Actuator
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