November 26, 2013 - Heidenhain releases LIP 400 series linear encoder system. The LIP 400 series is compatible with high and ultra high vacuum levels, and offers a small mechanical package with options of necessary encoder electronics to be inside or outside the vacuum chamber, depending on outgassing requirements. With an output signal period of 2 microns, and a measuring range of up to 420 mm, the LIP 400 linear encoder series is easily designed into motion stages. It also has an accuracy grade of either ± 1 micron, or even ± 0.5 micron for those applications needing high-end metrology.
The encoder system has a position stability of 2 nanometers and a low cyclical error (or interpolation error) of ± 20 nanometers. Two different types of glass can be ordered for the scale and scanning unit reticle: a normal float glass with 8 PPM thermal growth or ZERODUR (a 0 PPM thermal growth) glass ceramic for thermal stability considerations. The encoders are made of low outgassing materials, designed for quick pump down times, produced in a clean room environment, and shipped in a nitrogen-flushed custom packaging.
