New LM3S Electric Cylinders Give SEW-Eurodrive More Linear Force

SEW-Eurodrive has introduced the third-generation LM3S electric cylinder series for industrial machines requiring fast, precise linear motion. Available in three sizes with strokes from 60 to 1,200 mm and peak force ratings from 8 to 26 kN, the cylinders use ball screws and offer multiple motor, mounting, and feedback options. A patented oil-bath lubrication system can eliminate routine relubrication, while the open motor interface supports SEW-Eurodrive and other manufacturers’ servomotors. The LM3S targets handling, pick-and-place, machine tool, welding, and material processing applications.

SEW-Eurodrive’s LM3S electric cylinder series provides multiple motor and mounting configurations with max force ratings up to 26 kN. Image used courtesy of SEW-Eurodrive

The LM3S series will gradually replace the company’s CMS electric cylinders, adding higher force capability and more motor, mounting, and lubrication options. Three sizes are available with stroke lengths from 60 to 1,200 mm, targeting applications such as handling systems, pick-and-place equipment, machine tools, welding systems, and material processing machinery.

More Force With Less Maintenance

Mechanically, the LM3S uses a ball screw to produce linear movement and is designed for applications with high acceleration, speed, and repeated positioning. Different servomotor and belt transmission combinations let you configure the cylinders around a machine's speed, braking torque, and holding-force requirements.

One of the larger changes from the previous platform is the lubrication system. SEW-Eurodrive offers the LM3S with grease lubrication or a patented oil-bath system that lubricates the cylinder throughout its operating life. The oil system eliminates the separate oil pump used in the previous design while reducing friction, removing heat, and limiting wear. For machine builders, this removes routine relubrication from the maintenance schedule.

An LM3S electric cylinder used in a stone gripper provides the clamping and holding force needed for material handling applications. Image used courtesy of SEW-Eurodrive.

The cylinders are rated to IP65 and can be installed in any mounting position. Other mechanical features include an integrated anti-twist mechanism for the lifting rod and a hard chrome-plated piston rod for operation in moisture- or dust-prone environments. Food-grade lubricant and a 24 V forced-cooling fan are available as options.

Flexible Motor and Machine Integration

The LM3S can be paired with SEW-Eurodrive’s CMP and CM3 synchronous servomotors using adapters. An open motor interface also lets you connect servomotors from other manufacturers across the LM3S range. Parallel and series motor arrangements provide additional options when available machine space dictates where the motor can be installed.

The new LM3S supports multiple motor and mounting arrangements to fit different machine layouts. Image used courtesy of SEW-Eurodrive

For control integration, the series supports resolver, HIPERFACE and MOVILINK DDI feedback. MOVILINK DDI uses a single-cable connection and ties the cylinder into SEW-Eurodrive’s MOVI-C automation platform, reducing wiring between the motor and drive system. Engineers can also configure the cylinders online or use the company’s SEW-Workbench software for drive selection and system planning.

Another Option for Linear Motion

The LM3S expands SEW-Eurdrive’s electric cylinder range to cover loads up to 26 kN while retaining the earlier CMS platform's configurable approach. The combination of three cylinder sizes, strokes up to 1,200 mm, and multiple motor and mounting arrangements gives machine builders several ways to fit the actuator into an existing machine layout.

For applications with frequent linear movements, the main changes are higher available force and a lubrication system that reduces routine maintenance. The LM3S also keeps the motor interface relatively open, allowing engineers to select the motor and mounting arrangement around the machine rather than designing the machine around the cylinder.