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Schaeffler expands electromechanical actuators for medical tables
The new EWELLIX linear actuator supports high-load, quiet height adjustment in imaging and operating room equipment.
www.schaeffler.com
Powerful, energy-efficient, and maintenance-free: the modular EWELLIX EMA-80M linear actuator from Schaeffler was specifically designed for the electric height adjustment of patient tables. (Image: Schaeffler)
In medical imaging and surgical environments, patient tables and operating tables must combine high load capacity, precise positioning and quiet operation. Schaeffler has expanded its EWELLIX EMA-series of electromechanical linear actuators with a new variant developed specifically for these requirements in medical technology applications.
The EWELLIX EMA-80M is designed for height-adjustable patient and treatment tables used in systems such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). With a maximum force of 20,000 N and lifting speeds of up to 25 mm/s, the actuator addresses applications where compact installation space and high lifting forces are required simultaneously.
Higher forces simplify table design
In many imaging tables, scissor-lift or parallelogram mechanisms generate high force requirements at low lifting heights due to unfavorable lever ratios. Conventional electromechanical actuators typically provide forces up to around 12,000 N, often requiring dual-actuator configurations or hydraulic cylinders. The EMA-80M exceeds this range, enabling designers to use a single electromechanical actuator instead of parallel systems or hydraulics.
This approach reduces mechanical complexity, eliminates hydraulic oil, and lowers maintenance requirements. The result is a more compact, energy-efficient solution that simplifies table architecture while reducing overall system costs for equipment manufacturers.
Example installation of an EWELLIX EMA-80M linear actuator in a scissor-lift table kinematic system. (Image: Schaeffler)
Quiet operation and medical compliance
The EMA-80M is engineered for smooth, low-noise operation, a critical factor in patient comfort and clinical workflows. It is available with stroke lengths from 50 to 700 mm and is designed for long service life under continuous medical use. The actuator meets the requirements of IEC 60601-1 ed. 3.2, including fourfold static overload capability, supporting its use in regulated medical environments.
For safety-critical operation, the actuator includes an integrated mechanical brake that securely holds position when the motor is de-energized. Manual emergency operation is also possible in the event of a power failure, ensuring patient safety under all conditions.
Integration and configuration flexibility
The compact design allows seamless integration into scissor-lift or parallelogram mechanisms, enabling low entry heights for patient tables. Position feedback options include a magnetic sensor, optical encoder or mechanical absolute encoder. The sealing concept meets IP65M protection requirements, supporting cleaning and hygiene processes in clinical settings.
The EMA-80M is available with either a 48 V DC or 220 V AC motor, each rated at 750 W. A standardized mechanical and electrical interface also allows manufacturers to integrate their own motors and control systems, providing flexibility for different equipment platforms.
With the EMA-80M, Schaeffler extends its electromechanical portfolio for medical technology, offering imaging and operating room equipment manufacturers a high-force, oil-free alternative to hydraulic solutions that supports compact designs, fast positioning and reliable operation.
www.schaeffler.com
In medical imaging and surgical environments, patient tables and operating tables must combine high load capacity, precise positioning and quiet operation. Schaeffler has expanded its EWELLIX EMA-series of electromechanical linear actuators with a new variant developed specifically for these requirements in medical technology applications.
The EWELLIX EMA-80M is designed for height-adjustable patient and treatment tables used in systems such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). With a maximum force of 20,000 N and lifting speeds of up to 25 mm/s, the actuator addresses applications where compact installation space and high lifting forces are required simultaneously.
Higher forces simplify table design
In many imaging tables, scissor-lift or parallelogram mechanisms generate high force requirements at low lifting heights due to unfavorable lever ratios. Conventional electromechanical actuators typically provide forces up to around 12,000 N, often requiring dual-actuator configurations or hydraulic cylinders. The EMA-80M exceeds this range, enabling designers to use a single electromechanical actuator instead of parallel systems or hydraulics.
This approach reduces mechanical complexity, eliminates hydraulic oil, and lowers maintenance requirements. The result is a more compact, energy-efficient solution that simplifies table architecture while reducing overall system costs for equipment manufacturers.
Example installation of an EWELLIX EMA-80M linear actuator in a scissor-lift table kinematic system. (Image: Schaeffler)
Quiet operation and medical compliance
The EMA-80M is engineered for smooth, low-noise operation, a critical factor in patient comfort and clinical workflows. It is available with stroke lengths from 50 to 700 mm and is designed for long service life under continuous medical use. The actuator meets the requirements of IEC 60601-1 ed. 3.2, including fourfold static overload capability, supporting its use in regulated medical environments.
For safety-critical operation, the actuator includes an integrated mechanical brake that securely holds position when the motor is de-energized. Manual emergency operation is also possible in the event of a power failure, ensuring patient safety under all conditions.
Integration and configuration flexibility
The compact design allows seamless integration into scissor-lift or parallelogram mechanisms, enabling low entry heights for patient tables. Position feedback options include a magnetic sensor, optical encoder or mechanical absolute encoder. The sealing concept meets IP65M protection requirements, supporting cleaning and hygiene processes in clinical settings.
The EMA-80M is available with either a 48 V DC or 220 V AC motor, each rated at 750 W. A standardized mechanical and electrical interface also allows manufacturers to integrate their own motors and control systems, providing flexibility for different equipment platforms.
With the EMA-80M, Schaeffler extends its electromechanical portfolio for medical technology, offering imaging and operating room equipment manufacturers a high-force, oil-free alternative to hydraulic solutions that supports compact designs, fast positioning and reliable operation.
www.schaeffler.com
