Fully Integrated ORCA™ Series Linear Motors

ORCA motors are high-performing servo motors with force and position control, and an all-in-one design incorporating auxiliary components like sensors, drivers, and controllers. ORCA's line of direct drive motors are force feedback and sensing, enabling precise motion control, increased reliability, enhanced safety, and improved efficiency. With a simple but robust design, ORCA motors are low-maintenance, offer simple integration, and excel in a variety of applications.

Iris Dynamics magnetic linear motors combine drivers, controllers, and sensors, with simplified wiring and mechanical mounting points. This makes traditionally difficult tasks, like retrofitting pneumatic cylinders, remotely force-linking controls, or collecting and controlling force and motion data, simple. This results in a compact linear actuator, with no need for external auxiliary components. ORCA's are cog-less and backdrivable, reducing engineers development time and enhancing machine performance.

What is kinematic mode VS position mode?

Position mode with the IO SmartHub allows streaming positions through an analog signal, allowing full customization of position profiles. Kinematic mode, a built-in feature, allows the simple creation of motion profiles directly on the motor itself. These motion profiles typically follow sinusoidal paths to connect positions. Essentially, kinematic profiles can be triggered with digital signals, and position mode is through analog signals.

Do you offer shaft customization?

Yes, the shaft length of the ORCA motors can be customized. You can specify the shaft length anywhere from 10 to 40 inches in whole-inch increments. This customization allows you to tailor the shaft length to your specific application’s needs.

READ MORE: ORCA Series Shaft Length Customization Chart

What is the life expectancy of an ORCA Motor?

These servo actuators are designed and built to last the lifespan of most applications, the only life-limited components in ORCA motors are their bushings. The plastic bushings are located on either end of the stator and can attain over 50 million cycles when operating under very low side loads. We have compiled a comprehensive guide on full bushing life cycle analysis to help you easily identify when a replacement is necessary.

How silent are ORCA Motors?

These electric linear actuators are as silent as 20 dB, which is comparable to the noise level of a whisper. The motor may exceed 20 dB at the inaudible frequency of 24 kHz due to motor switching noises. This will be picked up by microphones as a sharp spike in sound at 24 kHz, but the spectrum is very narrow.

Are ORCA motors servo or stepper?

ORCA motors are servo motors, not stepper motors. They use closed-loop feedback to deliver precise, dynamic control of position, velocity, and force. Unlike stepper motors, which operate in open-loop systems and can lose steps under load, ORCA servo motors maintain accuracy and responsiveness even in demanding conditions. Their advanced programmability and real-time control make them ideal for high-performance applications in automation, robotics, and testing environments.

What is meant by voltage being included in the part number?

The voltage indicated in the part name/number represents the general voltage at which the maximum stall force is available. Essentially, the 48 V specification requires a higher voltage to achieve the maximum stall force, allowing for greater stall forces. This voltage serves as the recommended range for the motor.

How fast are the high speed ORCA motors?

Iris Dynamics latest high speed linear actuator, the ORCA-3, can reach speeds up to 6.5 m/s or 256 in/s making it the fastest actuator in the ORCA series line-up.

Do you offer programmable electric linear motors?

ORCA motors are fully programmable, delivering precise, reliable motion control for a wide range of industrial applications. Engineered with advanced embedded control capabilities, ORCA motors offer extensive programmability to customize motion profiles, force limits, and response behaviours to exact system requirements. ORCA motors deliver configurable performance parameters such as velocity, position, and compliance, allowing for optimized integration and superior control in complex motion systems.

Are ORCA motors direct current or alternating current?

ORCA motors are DC electric linear motors. They operate using direct current, which allows for precise control over position, velocity, and force through advanced onboard electronics. DC motors are ideal for applications that require smooth, responsive motion and easy programmability. Compared to AC motors, DC motors like the ORCA offer greater control flexibility and are better suited for automation, robotics, and precision motion systems.

Are ORCA motors direct drive?

Yes, ORCA motors are direct drive linear motors. This means there are no mechanical transmissions such as screws, belts, or gears between the motor and the load. By eliminating these components, direct drive systems offer higher precision, faster response times, and reduced mechanical complexity. ORCA motors apply force directly to the moving element, enabling smooth, efficient motion with minimal backlash or wear. This makes them ideal for applications requiring high accuracy, low maintenance, and fast dynamic performance.