Festo’s ADNE-LAS cylinders can replace solenoid actuators. They offer several advantages including a low moving mass and the avoidance of flexible cabling to the moving parts. The cylinder`s patented linear motor uses high-flux annular magnets on the actuator rod, surrounded by special windings on the stator coil. The cylinders have no external magnetic field and can be used in environments, such as machine tools, where swarf may be present. Currently, the IP65-protected cylinders are available in two sizes – with 32mm and 40mm profiles and peak thrust force ratings of 35N and 52N and in four stroke lengths from 15–45mm. It’s easy to mix and match different drive technologies because the cylinders can use the same mounting accessories as other similarly-sized Festo products. There are no servo parameters to set up even though the cylinders use closed-loop control to ensure positioning accuracy. Festo also has a controller to partner the ADNE-LAS cylinders. The CMFL controller accepts feedback from the cylinder’s built-in magnetic encoders and maintains its drive output signal until the piston rod has reached the desired end-position. Like a pneumatic actuator, the cylinders have a high power density and produce a constant force. Automatic end-position cushioning is provided by self-adaptive loop gain control decelerates the actuator movement as it nears the end of its stroke. The CMFL controls the movement of the piston rod in both directions and can store four different movement patterns, any of which can be selected and initiated via digital inputs.