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Kollmorgen Introduces the SFD-M Encoder: Precision and Cost Savings Combined

April 4, 2025

Kollmorgen Corp., a leader in motion control and automation, is excited to announce the launch of the Smart Feedback Device, Multi-Turn (SFD-M) encoder. This new tool is set to provide machine builders with high-resolution, multi-turn feedback, offering absolute position data right from system startup.

Chris Cooper, who heads global product management at Kollmorgen, shared, “Our new SFD-M encoder brings multi-turn absolute functionality with outstanding position accuracy and resolution, all without adding any extra cost compared to our single-turn encoders.” This advancement is designed to boost precision and productivity while significantly cutting costs, potentially saving you hundreds per motor and thousands on complex machinery.

The SFD-M integrates smoothly with Kollmorgen’s AKD and AKD2G drives and pairs effortlessly with Kollmorgen-housed servo motors. It features multi-turn performance, four times the positioning accuracy, and a big reduction in EMF noise compared to its predecessor, the SFD-3 single-turn encoder.

With over a century of expertise in motion, Kollmorgen offers a product lineup that includes motors, drives, linear actuators, AGV control systems, and automation platforms. These are all crafted to give you a competitive edge through enhanced performance, reliability, and ease of use.

The SFD-M stands as a cost-effective alternative to high-end third-party encoders, offering significant savings in precision, efficiency, and effectiveness in machine design. It tracks rotor shaft positions across each full rotation without needing a reference home position, logging total rotations in both directions. This absolute multi-turn capability is crucial for applications like machine tool positioning and satellite tracking.

Furthermore, the SFD-M retains absolute position data even when the system is powered down, saving you from time-consuming startup homing sequences. Unlike traditional encoders that rely on batteries or mechanical gear trains, prone to noise and failure, the SFD-M uses energy-harvesting technology to maintain data without these issues. This battery-free operation not only reduces maintenance but also supports environmental sustainability by cutting down on resource consumption and waste.

Key specifications of the SFD-M include a resolution of 24 bits per revolution, 16,777,216 counts per revolution, and an accuracy of 0.0772 arc-sec per count, with a multi-turn absolute range of 65,536 motor revolutions.

 

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