Micronix Advanced Capabilities: Non-Magnetic

Non-Magnetic

Magnetically sensitive applications require motion systems that are compatible with a defined magnetic environment. In practice, there are two primary requirements: positioners that must not generate a magnetic field, and positioners that must remain unaffected by external magnetic fields, which means using low-permeability materials. Both conditions need to be clearly specified, as they directly affect measurement accuracy, imaging quality, and overall system performance.

Magnetic permeability is a measure of how a material responds to a magnetic field. Materials with a relative permeability near 1 are generally considered non-magnetic because they neither concentrate nor distort magnetic fields. For example, aluminum has a relative permeability of approximately 1.000022, making it nearly invisible to magnetic fields, while soft iron has a relative permeability of 200-5000, which can strongly influence sensitive magnetic environments. Careful material selection, component sourcing, and assembly ensure the system meets the necessary permeability requirements.

Piezo Motor Technology, Intrinsically Non-Magnetic

Micronix piezo-based stages are the foundation for non-magnetic applications. Unlike electromagnetic motors, piezo elements operate through solid-state deformation rather than magnetic fields or current-driven coils. This means the motors themselves produce no magnetic field and are unaffected by external magnetic influences.

To support demanding applications, Micronix positioners are constructed using low-permeability, non-magnetic materials throughout. This allows the stage to deliver precise, repeatable motion while operating near sensitive magnetic equipment.

Micronix PPS-20 non-magnetic configuration with ceramic bearings

Materials Used in Non-Magnetic Configurations

Non-magnetic PPS stages achieve their performance through carefully selected materials, including:

• Bare aluminum structural elements
• Compatible encoders with glass scales
• Ceramic and titanium bearings and hardware
• Non-magnetic D-sub connectors for motor and encoder
• Silver-braided cable jackets
• Brass threaded inserts

These materials maintain strength, precision, and durability, resulting in compact PPS stages ideal for applications with strict magnetic requirements.

Chart: Material selection is determined in collaboration with engineering, where application requirements are assessed to ensure appropriate choices for both composition and magnetic permeability.