Vacuum
- Three standard vacuum levels LV 10-3 torr HV 10-6 torr UHV 10-9 torr eUHV 10-10 torr
- Ultra-lowoutgassing motors
- Lubrication: Special vacuum lube No lube, e.g. ceramic balls
Precision Motion for Demanding Environments
Special-Environment Precision Positioning Systems
PI miCos positioning technologies can be configured for demanding environments where standard motion hardware is not suitable. Solutions include vacuum-compatible designs, cryogenic positioning, and radiation-resistant motion for research, aerospace, beamline, and advanced instrumentation applications.
Positioning for Special Environments
Select the environmental configuration that matches the operating conditions. The legacy PI miCos categories below are retained from the original pages for reference.
Cyrogenic
- Temperatures: to 3K
- Vacuum levels: to 10-10 torr
- Lubrication Dry lube such as Dicronite Ceramic bearings
Aero-Space Products
- Piezo and Voice Coil Tech
- Space operation capable
- Vacuum capable
What Matters in System Selection?
Performance depends on the complete motion architecture, not on a single specification. Consider the mechanics, drive technology, feedback, controller, environment, and integration requirements together.
Vacuum-ready configurations
Materials, lubrication, cabling, motors, and sensors can be selected for reduced outgassing and operation at low pressure.
Cryogenic operation
Specialized mechanics and bearing approaches support precision motion at very low temperatures.
Radiation resistance
Component choices can be adapted for environments where radiation exposure limits conventional motion hardware.
Selection Guide
Use these criteria as a starting point when comparing motion technologies for a new design or when replacing a legacy system.
| Technology | Typical Use | Key Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum | Low-pressure and UHV systems | Vacuum-compatible materials, lubricants, motors, sensors, and cabling |
| Cryogenic | Low-temperature research and instrumentation | Material compatibility, lubrication strategy, thermal behavior, and precision at temperature |
| Radiation Resistant | Space, beamline, and research environments | Radiation-tolerant components and environment-compatible motion architecture |
Need a Positioning System for a Special Environment?
PI provides precision motion systems for vacuum, cryogenic, cleanroom, and other demanding applications. Contact PI to discuss environmental requirements, travel, load, precision, and integration.