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Linear Motion Systems — Axis Selection
This landing page helps you select the right NILAB linear axis for your machine. NILAB offers a range of complete linear axes and stages — from compact integrated slides to long-stroke, high-force stages and modular belt-driven units. Use the comparison below to shortlist the family that fits your application, then follow the links to the technical data, sizing, and design pages.
The axis families at a glance
| Family | Drive & construction | Peak force | Stroke | Guide | Encoder | Best for |
| GDM — Tubular Linear Stage | Green Drive motor in module version with carriage | 709 – 1749 N | stroke + carriage length | Integrated linear guide system | Integrated magnet-type encoder | Off-axis payload, multi-axis systems, bellows version on request |
| LM — Linear Stage | Ironcore linear motor L-series on aluminium profile | up to 3000 N (LM030/050/075) | up to 8500 mm | WON ball recirculating guides (maintenance-free, LF lubrication) | SIN/COS, ABZ, Hiperface, SSI, driveCliq | Long stroke, high force, high performance, multi-fieldbus |
| RM — Linear Stage | High-speed linear stage with integrated guide | up to ~1058 N per model | up to ~260 mm per model | High-performance integrated linear guide | Absolute encoder | High speed, high acceleration, packaging / food & beverage |
| MCSS — Mini Linear Slides | Integrated miniature tubular linear motors (dual-slider) | 82.7 – 187.7 N | 10 – 100 mm | Integrated guides and rails | Integrated drive with encoder feedback | Compact, high precision, plug-and-play |
| ULCO — Belt-driven linear units | Modular belt-driven units (44/66/88/132) | per size (see family page) | per size (see family page) | Profile with unified T-slots (M5/M6/M8) | optional (see family page) | Modular, multi-axis, self-supporting, small to medium power |
| NL-BCJ — Eco Linear stage | Flat ironcore linear motor with integrated guide | 195 – 1700 N (up to 3700 N) | per model (see family page) | Integrated linear guiding | Integrated encoder | Economic, integrated, medium force, 8 sizes (MEL10 – MEL23) |
Which axis should you use?
Choose GDM if your payload is off-axis or you need a multi-axis system: it is the module version of the Green Drive motor with a carriage and an integrated linear guide, and it is available with a bellows on request.
Choose LM if you need a long stroke, high force, high-performance stage with a wide choice of encoders and fieldbuses (EtherCAT, ProfiNET, CANopen) and compatibility with common servo drives.
Choose RM for high-speed, high-acceleration applications such as packaging, wrapping, diaper production, and food & beverage: it combines an integrated linear guide with an absolute encoder.
Choose MCSS when you need a compact, high-precision slide with an integrated drive — it is plug-and-play and is built around integrated miniature tubular linear motors.
Choose ULCO for a modular, self-supporting, cost-effective system on one or multiple axes: the belt-driven units integrate easily thanks to unified T-slots and cover small to medium power.
Choose NL-BCJ for an economic, integrated linear stage with a flat ironcore motor, available in 8 sizes (MEL10 – MEL23) up to a peak force of 3700 N.
How to proceed
1. Define the requirements — payload, stroke, speed, acceleration, precision, duty cycle, environment (IP, washdown, bellows). 2. Shortlist the family from the comparison above. 3. Size the motor — use the Motor sizing procedure and the Websmart tool. 4. Design the machine — see the Machine design requirements (mass reduction, rigidity, natural frequencies). 5. Integrate the axes — see the Engineer's Guide and the fieldbus/motion-control pages.