MFA Series Miniature Linear Stages
  • 25 mm travel in a low-cost and compact design
  • All-steel construction provides exceptional load capacity and stiffness
  • Precision-ground, double-row linear ball bearings ensure ultra-smooth and accurate linear travel
  • High-resolution, encoder feedback enables ultra-smooth motion with 100 nm sensitivity
  • Vacuum-compatible versions to 10-6 hPa.
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DescriptionSpecifications Models Catalog PDF

Designed for space-limited applications and compact multi-axis assemblies, MFA Series linear stages supply very high resolution, single-axis translation in a low-cost, motorized package. Typical applications for this stage are fiber optic alignment, laser diode research, bio-medical applications and inspection systems.

MFA linear stages are available in two versions: The MFA-CC DC-motor features an integrated gear-box and a motor-mounted high resolution 2,048 cts/rev rotary encoder. The high-resolution position feedback and low-friction mechanical design ensures ultra-smooth motion with 100 nm sensitivity. The DC motor supplies an optimized output torque that permits the use of a lower ratio step-down gear allowing for faster motion with higher reliability and lower backlash. Hence, the MFA-CC is the recommended choice for applications that require small incremental motion with high dynamic speed range and good repeatability. The MFA-PP and MFA-PPD stepper motor versions are more economic solutions for less demanding applications. End-of-run limit switches prevent bearing damage from accidental over-travel.

MFA stages feature an all-steel construction that provides a higher stiffness-to-weight ratio and lower thermal expansion compared to aluminum designs. The result is superior performance in a smaller footprint. The smooth motion of the MFA linear stages is further accentuated by Newport's proprietary double-row linear ball bearing design with bearing ways that are directly machined into the structural eframe of the stage. Compared to alternative solutions that use commercial bearings, MFA linear stages offer a higher load capacity and stiffness with low pitch and yaw errors.

Another benefit of Newport's integrated bearing ways is the availability of 4 widely spaced mounting holes for base mounting and XY-assemblies. This provides better stress distribution and allows for more rigid multi-axis combinations than other designs that provide only a line contact with 2 mounting holes.

Assembly


MFA stages in an XYZ configuration