Electro cylinder
Electro cylinders - precise, dynamic linear drives for industry & mechanical engineering
Electric cylinders are the modern solution for precise, low-maintenance, and powerful linear movements. With the SERAC® electric cylinder series, Ortlieb offers a particularly compact and highly functional line of electric drives for industrial applications. They combine mechanical robustness with intelligent sensors, enabling high-dynamic positioning in various industries.
This makes super compact designs with high power density possible for space-limited applications. Due to the high control quality of the play-free Ortlieb servo spindle, applications with very short cycle times can be realized.
Thus, SERAC® electric cylinders offer a clean alternative to hydraulic cylinders for many applications. With the typically slim design of the SERAC® electric cylinders, it is often possible to replace hydraulic cylinders even in existing constructions.
The direct drive of the Ortlieb servo spindle (without an additional reduction gearbox) and the smooth movement without rolling back lead to a number of special unique selling points.
What distinguishes a high-quality electric cylinder?
An electric cylinder converts rotary motor movements into precise, linear movements. Compared to pneumatic or hydraulic systems, an electric cylinder offers:
Significantly higher energy efficiency
Precise and repeatable positioning
Lower maintenance costs
clean operation without leakage
flexible controllability via common industrial drives
Ortlieb electric cylinders are based on the Ortlieb servo spindle and thus offer exceptional power density in a compact design. They are ideal for demanding applications in mechanical engineering, automation, and test and measurement technology.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
SERAC® – The electric cylinder series from Ortlieb
The SERAC® electric cylinders are modular linear drives comprised of a motor, gearbox, spindle, guide, and position measurement system. They enable fully integrated electric axes – ideal for space-saving installation in machines and systems.
Integrated path measurement (relative or absolute value)
Robust aluminum housing with mounting surfaces
Optional with integrated motor or for external drive
Various protection classes available (e.g. IP54/IP65)
Ball or roller screw spindle selectable (More about our planetary roller spindles)
To the SERAC® electric cylinder series
Advantages over other linear drives
Compact design with high power density
Integrated sensing and feedback
Energy efficient compared to pneumatics or hydraulics
Low maintenance due to precise guides and sealing.
High positioning accuracy and repeatability
Electric Cylinders Compared to Pneumatic and Hydraulic Systems
+90 % precision compared to pneumatic
No risk of leakage as with hydraulics
50–70 % lower energy consumption
easier integration into modern controls
lower maintenance due to closed systems
Applications of the SERAC® electric cylinders
Monday lines and handling systems
Testing and measuring devices
Packaging technology
Machine tools
Automated adjustment units
Press and die-cutting machines
Technical Features of Modern Electric Cylinders
Electric cylinders from Ortlieb are designed for demanding industrial applications and offer high power density in a compact design. Depending on the version, they enable:
high feed forces while simultaneously ensuring precise positioning
excellent repeat accuracy
high dynamics with fast cycle times
play-free power transmission via planetary rolling ball screw (PWG)
low-maintenance design for several million cycles
Due to the combination of servomotor, highly precise spindle technology, and robust housing design, electric cylinders are particularly suited for continuous production processes with high demands for precision and energy efficiency.
Designs and Integration Options
Electric cylinders can be realized in different designs and power classes depending on the application. Typical variants include:
compact designs for limited installation space
highly dynamic versions for short cycle times
force-optimized variants for pressing and joining applications
custom adaptations regarding stroke, force, and interfaces
Thanks to modular design, electric cylinders can be flexibly integrated into existing machine concepts and, in many cases, replace hydraulic or pneumatic systems.
Electric Cylinders in Industrial Practice
Electric cylinders are used wherever rotational movements need to be converted into controlled linear movements. Typical application fields include:
machine and plant engineering
automation technology
test benches
packaging and assembly technology
pressing and joining systems
Compared to hydraulic solutions, electric cylinders impress with their energy efficiency, lower maintenance requirements, and precise control through modern servo technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between electric cylinders and linear actuators?
An electric cylinder is a compact assembly with screw drive and integrated guidance. It is classified as an electric linear actuator, but offers higher stability and positioning accuracy.
More information can also be found at Screw Drive
What advantages do electric cylinders offer over hydraulic cylinders?
Electric cylinders operate more energy-efficiently, are more precise in control, and do not require hydraulic fluid. They enable clean, low-maintenance operation and are ideal for automated systems.
What control options are available?
SERAC® cylinders can be controlled directly or via external motors. They are compatible with common market controllers (e.g., PLC, motion controller).
Are there different sizes available?
Yes, SERAC® is available in several sizes and with different screw pitches – tailored to force, speed, and installation space.
What is the lifespan of electric cylinders?
Depending on the application and load profile, electric cylinders from Ortlieb can achieve several million cycles without maintenance.