Your requirements - our solutions | ZIMM

YOUR REQUIREMENTS – OUR SOLUTIONS

ZIMM actuators | Lifting forces from 25 to 200 kN for lifting, positioning and adjusting

Movement tasks:Lifting · Lowering · Positioning · Adjusting · Supporting · Levelling · Erecting
Product group:Electromechanical actuators · Electric cylinders
Lifting force ranges:25 to 200 kN per actuator | ZA-Series, ZA-I-Series – 25 · 50 · 100 · 200 kN
Sizes:4
Screw versions:Trapezoidal screw drive · Ball screw drive
Areas of use:Machinery and plant engineering · Automation · Cable, wire and tube industry · Automated guided vehicles · Steel hydraulic engineering · Ropeway systems · Wind energy · Maritime logistics · Stage technology · Inclined lifts · Aerospace · Urban security and protection technology · Timber industry · Architecture · Intralogistics · Rail technology · Defence
Quality management:ISO 9001:2015 · Open to further standards, assessed project-specifically

ZIMM actuators are self-contained linear drive axes with an internal screw. They lift, lower, position and adjust components or loads reproducibly – as a single drive axis or as several separately controlled axes. With ZA and ZA-I, ZIMM offers two actuator series for different drive concepts and installation situations: in the ZA the drive is arranged at a right angle, in the ZA-I coaxially. Both series are available in 4 sizes with lifting forces from 25 to 200 kN per actuator.

Which product group, series, size and screw version is suitable results from the specific movement task and the conditions at the installation site. ZIMM assesses the movement task and installation conditions and provides support with selection and design. Within the ZIMM modular system, screw jacks and electromechanical actuators can be combined with matching screws, motors, connecting shafts, couplings and add-on parts to form complete lifting systems. The supporting structure, guidance, locking and the higher-level safety concept are defined within the respective overall system.

ZIMM GmbH develops and manufactures screw jacks, bevel gearboxes, electromechanical actuators and matching add-on parts for industrial lifting, positioning and drive tasks at Millenniumpark 3, 6890 Lustenau, Austria.

ZA-Series | Actuator | ZIMM
Spindle with trapezoidal or ball thread
High performance gearing
Standardised flanges and matching parts
Corrosion protection ex works
Integrated sliding swivel bearings
Sealed gear
Lubrication without downtimes
Ready for all installation positions

ZA-Series | Actuator

The ZA series actuators from ZIMM are electromechanical linear drives for lifting, lowering, locking, tilting, positioning and adjusting loads. The motor is flange-mounted at the side; the ZA series operates without hydraulic fluid and is more energy-efficient and requires less maintenance than hydraulic solutions.

Available in four sizes from 25 to 200 kN, optionally with trapezoidal screw drive or ball screw drive. The spindle located inside the housing and the sealed gear protect against dirt, dust and water; high IP protection classes are possible. Matching flanges, rod ends, bearings and limit switches come from the ZIMM modular system.

ZA-Series | Actuator

The ZA series actuators from ZIMM are electromechanical linear drives for lifting, lowering, locking, tilting, positioning and adjusting loads. The motor is flange-mounted at the side; the ZA series operates without hydraulic fluid and is more energy-efficient and requires less maintenance than hydraulic solutions.

Available in four sizes from 25 to 200 kN, optionally with trapezoidal screw drive or ball screw drive. The spindle located inside the housing and the sealed gear protect against dirt, dust and water; high IP protection classes are possible. Matching flanges, rod ends, bearings and limit switches come from the ZIMM modular system.

ZA-I-Series | Actuator | ZIMM
Spindle with trapezoidal or ball thread
Standardised flanges and matching parts
Corrosion protection ex works
Integrated sliding swivel bearings
Sealed gear
Lubrication without downtimes
Flexible drive configuration

ZA-I-Series | Actuator

The ZA-I series actuators from ZIMM are coaxial electromechanical linear drives for locking, positioning and adjustment movements. Motor, gearbox and spindle are arranged on a common axis. This coaxial design keeps the drive slim and allows installation even where space is limited.

Available in four sizes from 25 to 200 kN, optionally with single-stage or two-stage planetary gearbox or as direct drive, matched to the duty cycle and system design. The spindle located inside the housing is protected against dirt, dust and water. Matching flanges, rod ends, bearings and limit switches come from the ZIMM modular system.

Electromechanics vs. Hydraulics

In many applications, electromechanical actuators are an alternative to hydraulic solutions when accuracy, economy and controlled movement are the main focus:

CriterionZIMM ElectromechanicsHydraulics
Energy EfficiencyHigh – energy only on demandContinuously running pump
Positioning AccuracyMicron-precise, repeatableLeakage affects precision
Maintenance EffortMinimal, no fluid managementHigh – oil, filters, seals
Environmental CompatibilityNo leakage damage, leak-freeRisk of oil contamination
Installation EffortCompact, easy integrationComplex piping & seals
Operational ReliabilityNo fire hazard from oilFire hazard in case of leaks
SynchronizationMultiple axes precisely synchronizableComplex, vulnerable to pressure drops
Operating NoiseQuiet, no hydraulic pumpLoud due to pump aggregates
Controllability / DigitalizationSimple PLC integration, Industry 4.0More complex, analog character
Cleanliness / HygieneIdeal for cleanrooms & food industryOil residues are problematic

Possible combinations | ZIMM modular system

The ZIMM modular system connects electromechanical actuators with matching accessories for mechanical integration. Standardised interfaces, flanges and accessories make adaptation to different installation situations and system concepts easier.

ZIMM modular system | ZA-Series | Actuator
ZIMM modular system | ZA-I-Series | Actuator

Areas of use and applications

ZIMM electromechanical actuators are used for precise lifting, lowering, positioning and adjustment of components or loads. They are suitable for applications where repeatable linear movement, robust mechanics and controlled integration into machines or systems are required.

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Locking and adjustment functions in the spreader must be actuated precisely and controlled in a mechanically traceable manner. Especially in intermodal operation, repeatable motion sequences are essential. ZA actuators perform the adjustment motion. Opposing functional elements can be mechanically coupled via a direct shaft and synchronized in a controlled manner.

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Turnout transport wagons take fully assembled turnouts directly from the assembly plant to the track worksite, where they are installed immediately; the removed turnout is returned in the same cycle for refurbishment or recycling. The application comprises two separate drive functions: ZIMM electromechanical actuators handle the tilting and positioning of the turnout, ZIMM screw jacks actuate the mechanical clamping system for securing and releasing the turnout components.

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Four ZIMM actuators compensate for uneven ground at the support points and bring the vehicle into a horizontal attitude. Only then is the radar moved into the operating position.

Frequently asked questions about ZIMM actuators

An electromechanical actuator is a self-contained linear drive axis with an internal screw. The input torque is transmitted to the screw. The screw extends out of the housing or retracts into it and thereby generates the linear lifting or positioning movement. The gear ratio and the screw lead turn a high input speed into a slow movement with a high lifting or positioning force. The stroke per input shaft revolution depends on the gear ratio and the screw drive.

ZA and ZA-I differ in the arrangement of the drive and in the version of the gearbox. In the ZA series, the drive is arranged at a right angle, i.e. laterally to the lifting axis. A worm drive inside the gear housing transmits the torque to the screw; the worm shaft is made of steel, case-hardened and ground. The speed variants N (normal) and L (low speed) are available, with gear ratios matched to the respective size. The gearbox is lubricated with synthetic fluid grease. In the ZA-I series, the actuator and the drive unit are arranged coaxially on a common axis. There are three drive variants: the direct drive DA with a gear ratio of 1:1, the single-stage planetary gear P1 with a gear ratio of 6:1 and the two-stage planetary gear P2 with a gear ratio of 36:1. In the ZA-I , the gearbox is lubricated with synthetic gear oil and the thrust bearing with synthetic fluid grease. Both series have in common that they are available in sizes 25, 50, 100 and 200 kN, each with a trapezoidal or ball screw drive, and that both are integrated into the ZIMM modular system.

The ZA actuator is connected to the design at two connection points: at the gear housing and at the screw end. It is designed for the full static nominal load in compression and tension, whereby the permissible load depends on the type of fastening. For a pivoting connection, swivel bushes are integrated into the gear housing as standard. They can be loaded in compression as well as in tension with the full nominal load and are located on the front and rear face at 25 kN and on the sides at 50, 100 and 200 kN. With fixed fastening, the full nominal load is also permissible in compression and in tension. In tension, the load acts on the fastening screws in the through holes of the housing (screws 8.8). Prepared holes support various types of installation, and installation upside down is possible with the full nominal load. Matched mounting, fastening and accessory solutions from the ZIMM modular system enable integration into different system concepts.

Trapezoidal screw drives are economical, insensitive to shock loading and, depending on screw lead, friction, lubrication and version, can be statically self-locking. Their lower efficiency limits lifting speed and permissible duty cycle. Ball screw drives achieve a considerably higher efficiency and are therefore suitable for higher speeds, longer duty cycles and higher cycle numbers. They are not self-locking and, where loads have to be held, require a brake or an equivalent holding element. Where lifting tasks are safety-relevant, the possible self-locking of a trapezoidal screw drive does not replace the required holding, locking and safety concept of the overall system.

The duty cycle (ED) describes the ratio of movement time to total cycle time and is stated as a percentage. At a duty cycle of 20 %, the actuator moves for 12 minutes within one hour and is at rest for 48 minutes. The duty cycle largely determines the heat generated in the screw drive. Alongside lifting force and stroke, it is the most important variable for selecting the size. The permissible duty cycle depends on the magnitude of the load, the lifting speed and the chosen screw drive (trapezoidal or ball screw drive). High loads and high speeds mean more friction and therefore more heating. With a high duty cycle combined with a long stroke, a size that initially appeared suitable must be reassessed.

An ambient temperature of 20 °C to 25 °C is regarded as standard. Ambient temperatures below 10 °C and above 40 °C require particular attention; deviations from the standard range must be stated with the enquiry and the order, as they affect the design and the operating behaviour. In operation the components heat up to differing degrees – the screw can reach a considerably higher temperature than the gear housing. Degree of protection, corrosion protection, lubricant and sealing version are defined according to the actual operating and ambient conditions; separate versions are available for clean room, food industry and corrosion protection applications.

The following information in particular is required for the technical design:

  • movement task
  • required lifting or positioning force
  • stroke and lifting speed
  • duty cycle, movement and pause time as well as number of cycles per hour
  • series (ZA or ZA-I), for the ZA-I the drive variant (DA, P1 or P2)
  • number of drive points
  • installation situation and ambient conditions including ambient temperature

In addition, information on the required repeat accuracy, load distribution, control system, sensors and safety requirements is needed. A drawing or sketch of the installation situation supports the technical assessment.

Industry expertise | ZIMM

Our actuator range

Depending on the area of use and application, 4 sizes with a lifting force of 25kN to 200kN are available.

ZA-Series | Actuators | 25kN-200kN
ZA-Series | Actuators
25kN-200kN
ZA-I-Series | Actuators | 25kN-200kN
ZA-I-Series | Actuators
25kN-200kN

Submit your enquiry for your lifting or positioning task

Are you planning a lifting, positioning, adjusting or supporting task with limited installation space and need a quotation or technical support for ZIMM actuators? Describe your application and attach a drawing, sketch or task description together with the intended installation situation. Our application engineers will support you in selecting the series, size, screw version and connection as well as the matching motor, connection and mounting technology from the ZIMM modular system, including project-specific special applications.

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