Metrology specialist Renishaw can now offer longer sealed encoder scale lengths to support the development of large machine tools. Customers can choose FORTiS enclosed encoder linear scales as long as 4.24 m.Applications include machine tools for making large casting moulds, vertical turning lathes (VTLs) and gantry-type machines.

The FORTiS encoder design is built upon Renishaw’s ‘Resolute’ encoder technology, providing resistance to the ingress of liquids and solid debris contaminants. It features an extruded enclosure with longitudinally attached interlocking lip seals and sealed end caps. The read-head body is attached to a sealed optical unit via a blade that travels through the DuraSeal lip seals along the length of the encoder.

Linear axis movement causes the read-head and optics to traverse the encoder’s absolute scale (which is fixed to the inside of the enclosure) without mechanical contact.

Customers can choose from two different extrusion profiles to suit their space requirements. The FORTiS-S linear encoder is the standard-size encoder, available with measuring lengths from 140 to 4240 mm, and installs directly to a machined surface via flexure holes in the extrusion’s body.

The FORTiS-N encoder, available with measuring lengths from 70 to 2040 mm, features a narrower cross-section extrusion and a more compact read-head to enable installations in confined spaces. This model mounts directly to a machined surface via two end cap mounting holes or a mounting spar for greater rigidity.

Renishaw FORTiS absolute encoder systems have CE approval and are manufactured in-house using strict quality-controlled processes certified to ISO 9001:2015.

More informationwww.renishaw.com/fortis