Festo Optimized Stepper Motor Family: EMMB-ST/EMMT-ST with CMMT-ST Drive for Closed-Loop Positioning

Stepper motor technology continues to advance, narrowing the gap with servo motors and offering closed-loop positioning for applications without high-speed or dynamic load demands. Today, the humble stepper can offer surprising cost effectiveness with uncompromised performance at extra low voltage.

Festo’s new, optimised EMMB-ST and EMMT-ST stepper motor family can be used in conjunction with the CMMT-ST servo drive controller to create a coordinated servo system at an attractive price. The stepper motor family includes models designed for regular and advanced industrial automation applications, enabling machine builders and system designers to choose the most cost-efficient option.

EMMB-ST Basic Series: Cost-Effective Performance

The EMMB-ST range of stepper motors is the basic series for regular industrial applications. This cost-effective model is particularly suitable for series machine manufacturers and applications in electronics and small parts handling. Key features include:

• One Cable Plug (OCP) design: Saves space and enables front or rear cable alignment
• Reliable and cost-effective operation: Consistent performance with low maintenance
• IP20 protection (shaft IP40)

EMMT-ST Premium Series: Higher Protection, Superior Connectivity

The premium range of EMMT-ST stepper motors are designed for applications that require a higher IP rating and outstanding levels of connectivity. Key highlights include:

• IP65 rated (shaft IP40): Suitable for harsh industrial environments
• UL certification: Meeting North American market requirements
• Rotatable M17 plug: OCP cable with a solid M17 plug that can be rotated through 310 degrees for maximum installation flexibility

CMMT-ST Servo Drive: Multi-Protocol with Energy Management

The compatible CMMT-ST servo drive controller supports multiple fieldbus protocols as standard, as well as Safe Torque Off (STO) and Safe Stop 1 (SS1) functions. The controller features an energy management function that can make the most ordinary positioning system more sustainable. For example, it can save energy in battery systems in Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), forklifts or small load carriers.

At just 27mm wide and only needing a 24 or 48V DC power supply, the CMMT-ST controller offers a convenient choice for centralised or decentralised architectures.

Digital Selection and Commissioning Tools

Festo online selection and configuration tools, such as the Electric Motion Sizing Tool, mean that specifiers can select the right drive package quickly and reliably. Faster and easier commissioning is also possible using Festo’s Automation Suite (FAS) software.

Starter Kit: Quick Proof of Concept

Festo offers a starter kit containing:

• CMMT-ST controller with multi-protocol function
• EMMT-ST stepper motor
• Matching motor/encoder cables with OCP technology

The kit is easy to use and intuitive to install with the Festo Automation Suite software and provides the full range of functions. Also included is one hour of remote support from Festo’s expert applications team to give you a head start.

Typical Applications

• Electronics manufacturing: Precision small-part handling and positioning
• AGVs / AMRs: Mobile robot drive systems with energy recovery
• Material handling: Conveyor lines, sorting systems
• Compact automation: Packaging machines, labelling systems and more

The Festo EMMB-ST/EMMT-ST stepper motor family and CMMT-ST drive are now available through Festo’s global sales network. Contact our technical engineers for sizing support or to request a starter kit for evaluation.