Information for easier handling, tricks, tips, etc.
Page 6
1 About this Document
Warning sign affixed to the product that refers to detailed information
Symbol/
Label
1.
2.
Meaning
Action consisting of several steps whose sequential order must be
observed
Action consisting of one or several steps whose sequential order is
irrelevant
Lists
p. 5 Cross-reference to page 5
RS-232Labeling of an operating element on the product (example: socket of
the RS-232 interface)
in this manual.
1.3 Definition of Terms
Term Explanation
Load capacity Maximum load capacity in the vertical direction when the positioner is
mounted horizontally. The contact point of the load is in the center of
the platform.
Max. push/pull force Maximum force effective in the direction of motion.
In the case of vertical mounting, the specified value (see 37) only
applies when the servo mode is on.
Linear encoder The linear encoder is a sensor here used for detecting the current
position of the platform. For enhanced accuracy, a mechanical
connection of the sensor system and the platform is applied.
1.4 Pictures
For better understandability, the colors, proportions and degree of detail in illustrations can
deviate from the actual circumstances. Photographic illustrations may also differ and must not
be seen as guaranteed properties.
1.5 Other Applicable Documents
The devices and software tools from PI that are mentioned in this documentation are described
in separate manuals.
Product Document
Positioners with electric motors MP146EK Short instructions for positioners with
electric motors
C-663.11 stepper motor controller MS208E User Manual
If a manual is missing or problems occur with downloading:
Contact our customer service department (p. 35).
INFORMATION
For products that are supplied with software (CD in the scope of delivery), access to the
manuals is protected by a password. Protected manuals are only d
entering the password.
The password is included on the CD of the product.
For products with CD: Identify the password
1. Insert the product CD into the PC drive.
2. Switch to the Manuals directory on the CD.
3. In the Manuals directory, open the Release News (file including releasenews in the file
name).
4. Find the user name and the password in the section "User login for software download"
in the Release News.
Downloading Manuals
1. Open the website http://www.pi.ws.
2. Click Info.
3. If you have a user name and password:
a) Click Login.
b) Log in with the user name and password.
4. Click >> Product Downloads.
5. In the Product Files area, click the corresponding product category.
6. On the right-hand side of the page, select the corresponding subcategory.
7. Navigate to the product number on the page.
The following manuals are displayed:
− Freely accessible manuals
− Manuals that are protected by a password
8. Click the desired manual and save it to the hard disk of your PC or to a data storage
The L-509 is a laboratory device as defined by DIN EN 61010. It is intended for indoor use and
use in an environment which is free of dirt, oil, and lubricants. Because cleanliness is important
for a vacuum product, it is also necessary to take various measures to avoid contamination. In
particular, gloves specially designed for handling products must be worn and the product may
only be stored packed in air-tight original packaging or otherwise cleanroom-compatible
packaging, in a cleanroom environment or in vacuum chambers see also chapter 4 "Unpacking"
p. 13).
In accordance with its design, the L-509 is intended for single-axis positioning, adjusting and
shifting of loads at different velocities. The L-509 is not intended for applications in areas, in
which a failure would present severe risks to human beings or the environment.
The L-509 is intended for horizontal or vertical mounting. For the load limits with vertical
mounting, see "General Notes on Installation". (p. 15).
The intended use of the L-509 is only possible when completely mounted and connected.
The L-509 must be operated with a suitable controller (p. 12). The controller is not included in
the scope of delivery of the L-509.
2.2 General Safety Instructions
The L-509 is built according to state-of-the-art technology and recognized safety standards.
Improper use of the L-509 may result in personal injury and/or damage to the L-509.
Only use the L-509 for its intended purpose, and only use it if it is in perfect condition.
Read the user manual.
Immediately eliminate any faults and malfunctions that are likely to affect safety.
The operator is responsible for correct installation and operation of the L-509.
2.3 Organizational Measures
User Manual
Always keep this user manual available when using the L-509.
The latest versions of the user manuals are available on our website (p. 3) for
download.
Add all information from the manufacturer such as supplements or technical notes to
If you give the L-509 to other users, also include this user manual as well as all other
relevant information provided by the manufacturer.
Only use the device on the basis of the complete user manual. Missing information due
to an incomplete user manual can result in minor injury and damage to equipment.
Only install and operate the L-509 after you have read and understood this user
manual.
Personnel Qualification
The L-509 may only be installed, started up, operated, maintained, and cleaned by authorized
and appropriately qualified personnel.
2.4 Measures for Handling Vacuum-Compatible Products
When handling the vacuum version of the positioner, attention must be paid to appropriate
cleanliness. At PI, all parts are cleaned before assembly. During assembly and measurement,
powder-free gloves are worn. In addition, the products are wiped clean once again and then
shrink-wrapped twice in vacuum-compatible film.
Only touch the positioner when wearing powder-free gloves.
If necessary, wipe the positioner clean after unpacking.
The L-509 must be connected to a suitable controller. The following controllers from PI are
suitable for the operation of the L-509:
Controller Axes per
controller
C-663 1 USB, RS-232, daisy chain
SMC Hydra 1 RS-232, LAN Yes L-509.0x1311V7
PC software is included in the scope of delivery of the controllers from PI. The operation of the
controllers is described in the corresponding user manuals.
3.8 Technical Features
3.8.1 Encoder
The L-509.0x1300V7 models are not equipped with an encoder.
Linear encoder
The L-509.0x1311V7 models are equipped with an optical linear encoder. For the encoder
resolution, refer to the table in the "Specifications" section (p. 37).
Optical linear encoders measure the actual position directly (direct metrology). Errors occurring
in the drive, such as nonlinearity, backlash or elastic deformations cannot influence the
measurement of the position.
The L-509 is equipped with mechanical limit switches.
Each limit switch closes a contact on a dedicated line to the controller. The controller then stops
the motion. If the controller does not stop the motion in time, the positioner runs into the hard
stop.
Page 17
4 Unpacking
4
Unpacking
1. Remove the L-509 in its inner and outer bag from the transport packaging carefully.
Now unpack the L-509 carefully and according to the regulations on the label of the
packaging as follows:
2. Compare the contents with the items listed in the contract and the packing list.
3. Before opening the vacuum packaging, check the packaging and the product – if visible
– for signs of damage. If there is any sign of damage or missing parts, contact PI
immediately.
4. Clean the outer bag with a lint-free cleanroom cloth that has been dampened with
clean isopropyl alcohol (99.9% or better).
5. Remove the outer bag before bringing into the cleanroom area
6. Only open the inner bag in a cleanroom environment. Wear cleanroom gloves. After
removing the bag, the product should only be stored, air-tight wrapped in original
packaging or in other clean-room packaging, in a cleanbox, a cleanroom or in a sealed
vacuum chamber.
7. Touch the product only when wearing cleanroom gloves. If touched with bear hands,
seat and grease residues come into contact with the product that cannot be completely
removed by wipe-cleaning.
8. Inspect the contents for signs of damage. If there is any sign of damage or missing parts,
contact PI immediately.
9. Keep all packaging materials in case the product needs to be returned.
Only open the inner bag in a cleanroom environment. Wear cleanroom gloves. After
removing the bag, the product may only be stored in a cleanbox, a cleanroom or in a
sealed vacuum chamber
Touch the product only when wearing cleanroom gloves. If touched with bear hands,
seat and grease residues come into contact with the product that cannot be completely
removed by wipe-cleaning.
NOTICE
Unwanted changes in position with vertical mounting!
If the load exceeds the self-locking of the drive when the positioner is mounted vertically,
unintentional changes in the position of the platform will occur. Unwanted changes in the
position of the platform can damage the drive, the load or the environment.
When a positioner is mounted vertically, make sure that the installed load is lower than
the self-locking of the drive (see specification of the holding force in "Data table"
(p. 37)).
NOTICE
Malfunction due to false mounting screws!
Make sure that the screws are vacuum-compliant (e.g. including vent holes)
NOTICE
Cable break!
A cable break leads to failure of the positioner.
Install the positioner so that the cable is not bent too strongly or crushed.
The heat produced during operation of the L-509 can affect your application.
Due to lack of surrounding air, heat dissipation from the motor is reduced significantly in a
vacuum.
Install the L-509 so that the application is not impaired by the dissipated heat.
Avoid exceeding the allowed max. velocity of 5 mm/s. Operation within the allowed
velocity range is automatically ensured by correct selection/detection of the product
model in the motion control software.
INFORMATION
For optimal repeatability, all components must be connected firmly together.
INFORMATION
The use of locating pins during mounting reduces deviations from the ideal alignment of the
positioner.
If possible, simulate the positioner motion with a mounted load or make suitable
calculations to detect collisions or unfavorable center of gravity constellations.
If necessary, take suitable constructive measures to avoid collisions and instability in
the overall system.
Avoid or mark danger zones that result from the installation of the positioner and the
application, in accordance with the legal regulations.
Figure 5: Position of the locating holes for aligning the positioner
Requirements
You have read and understood the general notes on installation (p. 15).
You have provided a suitable surface (for the required position and depth of the holes
for accommodating the screws and locating pins, see "Dimensions" (p. 39)):
− Four or eight M4 threaded holes are present.
− If you use locating pins to align the positioner: Two 4 mm Ø locating holes are
present.
− The flatness of the surface is ≤10 µm.
− For applications with large temperature changes: The surface should have the same
or similar thermal expansion properties as the L-509 (e.g., surface made of
aluminum).
You have accounted for the space required to route cables without bending and
according to regulations.
There is a suitable vacuum feedthrough (see p.11) for the cable connections.
Tools and accessories
Mounting accessories; in the scope of delivery (p. 11)
− 4 or 8 socket head screws, ISO 4762 M4x14
− 2 dowel pins, ISO 2338 - 4 m6 × 12, for use as locating pins
Hex key, AF 3
Mounting the positioner onto a surface
1. Align the positioner on the surface so that the corresponding mounting holes in the
a) Insert the locating pins into the respective holes in the surface.
b) Place the positioner on the surface so that the locating pins are inserted into the
corresponding locating holes on the other side.
Page 23
5 Installation
2. Allow access to the mounting holes in the base body of the positioner. Possible
measures:
− Temporary startup of the positioner (S. 25) and commanding the platform to a
suitable position
− Moving the platform manually (p. 33)
3. Insert the screws into all accessible mounting holes and tighten.
4. Repeat steps 2 to 4 for all available concealed mounting holes.
5. Check that the positioner is affixed firmly to the surface.
5.3 Connecting the L-509 to the Protective Earth Conductor
INFORMATION
It is only necessary to connect the L-509 to the protective earth conductor when both of the
following conditions are met:
The load on the platform of the L-509 must be connected to the protective earth
conductor, but it is not possible to connect the protective earth conductor directly to the
load.
The load and the platform are connected conductively to each other.
INFORMATION
Observe the applicable standards for connecting the protective earth conductor.
An M4 hole for the protective earth conductor connection is included in one of the longitudinal
sides of the L-509. In the following figure, this hole is marked with an arrow.
An impermissible high load impairs the motion of the platform and can damage the
positioner.
When considering the mass and mounting method of the load, pay attention to the
specified maximum permissible forces that may act on the platform (p. 37).
NOTICE
Excessively long screws!
Screws and locating pins that are inserted too deeply can damage the lower positioner.
Pay attention to the depth of the mounting holes in the platform (p. 39) of the lower
positioner.
Only use screws and locating pins of the correct length for the respective mounting
holes.
Requirements
You have read and understood the general notes on installation (p. 15).
You have mounted the positioner properly onto a surface (p. 17).
The positioner is not connected to the controller.
You have prepared the load so that it can be affixed to the mounting holes on the
platform (p. 40):
− The distance between the center of gravity of the load and the center of the
platform is as small as possible in all directions.
− At least two points are provided for mounting the load on the platform (ideally:
three or four mounting points).
− If you use locating pins for aligning the load: You have made two locating holes of
Ø 4 mm H7 in the load for accommodating locating pins.
Damage if an incorrect controller or motor cable is connected!
Connecting a positioner to an unsuitable controller or using an unsuitable motor
cable can cause damage to the positioner or controller.
Only connect the positioner to a suitable controller (p. 12).
To connect the positioner to the controller, only use a motor cable that is
suitable for the controller. Suitable cables for the vacuum and atmospheric side
are supplied as follows:
− C-663.11 controller: C-815.38 motor cable
− C-663.12 controller: C-815.00SA0338-0300 motor cable.
− SMC Hydra controller: 720090620-0300 motor cable
Requirements
You have read and understood the general notes on installation (p. 15).
You have installed the controller.
You have read and understood the user manual of the controller.
The controller is switched off.
Tools and accessories
Cable from the scope of delivery of the positioner (p. 11)
Vacuum feedthrough incl. according connectors
Suitable tools for tightening the screws to the connections
Connecting the L-509 to a Controller
1. Remove the ESD protection from all connections of the L-509.
2. Connect the cable(s) of the vacuum side to the corresponding connector(s) of vacuum
feedthrough.
3. Connect the cable(s) of the air side to the corresponding connector(s) of vacuum
feedthrough.
4. Use the integrated screws (if applicable) to secure the connections against accidental
There is a risk of minor injury from crushing between the moving parts of the positioner or
the load and a fixed part or obstacle.
Use protective structures to keep limbs away from areas in which they could be caught
by moving parts.
Observe the safety distances in accordance with DIN EN ISO 13857 when installing
protective structures.
NOTICE
Contamination of the positioner!
Contamination, in particular due to sweat or grease on the skin, cannot normally be
completely cleaned by wiping.
Wear cleanroom gloves always when handling the positioner.
Make sure that the positioner does not come into contact with contaminated surfaces or
tools.
Make sure that the positioner is stored in a cleanbox, cleanroom or in a sealed vacuum
chamber.
HINWEIS
Heating of the L-509 during operation!
The heat produced during operation of the L-509 can affect your application.
Due to lack of surrounding air, heat dissipation from the motor is reduced significantly in a
vacuum.
Install the L-509 so that the application is not impaired by the dissipated heat.
Avoid exceeding the allowed max. velocity of 5 mm/s. Operation within the allowed
velocity range is automatically ensured by correct selection/detection of the product
model in the motion control software.
Collisions can damage the positioner, the load to be moved, and the surroundings.
Make sure that no collisions are possible between the positioner, the load to be moved,
and the surroundings in the motion range of the positioner.
Do not place any objects in areas where they can be caught by moving parts.
Stop the motion immediately if a controller malfunction occurs.
If possible, adapt the travel range limits of your mechanical system in the software that
you use for commanding the motion.
NOTICE
Damage if an incorrect controller or motor cable is connected!
Connecting a positioner to an unsuitable controller or using an unsuitable motor
cable can cause damage to the positioner or controller.
Only connect the positioner to a suitable controller (p. 12).
To connect the positioner to the controller, only use a motor cable that is
suitable for the controller. Suitable cables for the vacuum and atmospheric side
are supplied as follows:
− C-663.11 controller: C-815.38 motor cable
− C-663.12 controller: C-815.00SA0338-0300 motor cable.
− SMC Hydra controller: 720090620-0300 motor cable
NOTICE
Operating voltage excessively high or incorrectly connected!
Operating voltages that are excessively high or incorrectly connected can cause damage to
the L-509.
Do not exceed the operating voltage range (p. 38) that is specified for the L-509.
Operate the L-509 only when the operating voltage is properly connected; see "Pin
Assignment" (p. 43).
NOTICE
Damage or considerable wear due to high accelerations!
High accelerations can cause damage to or considerable wear on the mechanics.
Stop the motion immediately if a controller malfunction occurs.
Ensure that the end of the travel range is approached at low velocity.
Determine the maximum velocity for your application.
Unintentional motion of the L-509 is possible when it is connected to the controller. Defective
software or incorrect operation of the software can also result in unintentional motion.
Do not place any objects in areas where they can be caught by moving parts.
Before connecting the L-509, check whether a macro is defined as the startup macro in the
controller, and cancel the selection of the startup macro if necessary.
INFORMATION
Improper setting of the servo-control parameters can impair the performance of the L-509.
This can have the following consequences:
Oscillation
Imprecise approach of the position
Settling time is too long
If the performance of the L-509 is not satisfactory, check the settings for the servo-control
parameters of your controller.
You have read and understood the general notes on startup (p. 25).
For starting up with a load or in a multi-axis system: You have properly installed the
positioner (p. 24).
You have read and understood the user manual of the controller used.
You have read and understood the manual of the PC software used.
The controller and the required PC software have been installed. All connections on the
controller have been set up (see "Connecting the L-509 to the Controller" (p. 24) and
the user manual of the controller).
Starting up the positioner
1. Start up the controller (see user manual of the controller).
Configure the controller during startup using the PC software for the positioner used
(see user manual of the controller, and the PC software):
− If you use a controller from PI: Select the entry in the positioner database that
exactly fits the positioner model used (p. 28).
− If you use a controller from another manufacturer: Enter the parameters into the
corresponding PC software that exactly fit the positioner model used; see the
overview of the operating parameters for DC motor controllers or stepper motor
controllers.
2. Before sealing the vacuum chamber, start a few motion cycles for testing purposes (see
user manual of the controller).
6.2.1 L-509 Entries in the Positioner Database of PI
For PI controllers, you can select the connected positioner from a positioner database in the
corresponding PC software. The appropriate operating parameters are thus loaded to the
controller. You can find a detailed description in the user manual for the controller or in the
manual for the PC software used.
Contamination, in particular due to sweat or grease on the skin, cannot normally be
completely cleaned by wiping.
Wear cleanroom gloves always when handling the positioner.
Make sure that the positioner does not come into contact with contaminated surfaces or
tools.
Make sure that the positioner is stored packed in a cleanbox, cleanroom or in a sealed
vacuum chamber.
NOTICE
Damage due to improper maintenance!
Improper maintenance can result in misalignment and failure of the L-509.
Only loosen screws according to the instructions in this manual.
7.2 Performing a Maintenance Run
Depending on the operating conditions and the period of use of the L-509, the following
maintenance measures are required:
Maintenance run
The maintenance run serves to distribute the existing lubricant.
After 500 operating hours or at least after 1 year, perform a maintenance run over the
entire travel range, in order for the existing lubricant to be distributed evenly.
If you operate your positioner continuously over only a short travel range (<20%of the
entire travel range), perform a run across the entire travel range approximately every
2000 motion cycles.
Lubrication
Under laboratory conditions, the positioner needs extra lubrication in exceptional cases only.
For continuous industrial use, the lubrication intervals must be defined individually.
Do not relubricate the L-509 without consulting our customer service department.
Mechanical system
does not move; no
operating noise can
be heard.
Controller not correctly
connected or defective.
When a PI controller is
used: Axis motion error.
Platform has triggered the
limit switch.
Check the controller.
Motion error = The difference between the current
position and the commanded position exceeds the
specified maximum value in closed-loop operation. For
example, motion errors can be caused by malfunctions
of the drive or the position sensor of the positioner.
1. Read out the error code of the controller in the PC
software. If there is a motion error, error code 1024 is output.
2. Check your system and make sure that all axes can
be moved safely.
3. Switch on the servo mode for the affected axis in
the PC Software.
For details, see the user manual of the controller.
If you use a controller from PI:
1. Switch on the servo mode for the affected axis
again in the PC software.
2. Command an axis motion away from the limit
switch in the PC software.
Actual position
deviates from the
displayed position.
If the problem that occurred with your system is not listed in the table above or cannot be
solved as described, contact our customer service department (p. 35).
an external load torque or
the mass to be driven in
the case of strong
acceleration or
deceleration.
The motor skips steps. The information on the current
position is lost without the controller detecting the
state.
In accordance with EU law, electrical and electronic equipment may not be disposed of in EU
member states via the municipal residual waste.
Dispose of your old equipment according to international, national, and local rules and
regulations.
In order to fulfil the responsibility as the product manufacturer, PI miCos GmbH undertakes
environmentally correct disposal of all old PI miCos equipment made available on the market
after 13 August, 2005 without charge.
Any old PI miCos equipment can be sent free of charge to the following address: