Iron-core linear motor
Yaskawa SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear iron-core linear motor
Iron-core linear servomotor with magnets either side of the coil to cancel the attraction force, for high-force axes on modular magnet tracks.
Key specifications
Detailed figures vary by model. Ask an engineer for the variant you need.
Summarised in our own words from Yaskawa Electric Corporation's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-29. Source 1
Notes on this data
Yaskawa pages load ratings by script and returned none; force and speed left out rather than taken from resellers. Listed under Sigma-5 on yaskawa.com; current status not confirmed.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Yaskawa Electric Corporation. Yaskawa and SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a Yaskawa part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Compact iron-core linear motors with high force density for point-to-point moves with micron-level positioning.
View AJM →High-force iron-core linear motors in five widths with optional water cooling, reaching several kN continuous.
View AKM →Narrow, cost-effective iron-core linear motors with low cogging for long-stroke, space-constrained axes.
View AQM →Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What an iron-core linear motor is
An iron-core linear motor is a direct-drive linear motor whose coils are wound on a laminated iron core in the moving forcer, running over a flat track of permanent magnets. Current in the coils interacts with the magnet field to produce thrust directly, with no screw, belt or gearbox. The iron core concentrates the magnetic flux, so force density is high and heat can be conducted away through the core. Position feedback comes from a linear encoder.
When engineers choose an iron-core linear motor
Choose an iron-core linear motor for high continuous force, high acceleration and long strokes, such as machine tools, gantries and heavy automation. Direct drive removes backlash and wear in the transmission. The trade-offs are cogging, which causes small force ripple, and a strong attraction force between forcer and magnet track, often many times the rated thrust, which must be carried by the guides. For very smooth, low-ripple motion with light loads, an ironless motor may suit better.
How to specify the Yaskawa SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear variant or an equivalent:
- Peak and continuous force (N)
- Stroke and speed (mm, m/s)
- Moving mass and acceleration (kg, m/s²)
- Attraction force and guide load capacity (N)
- Cooling: natural, forced air or water
- Bus voltage and drive current (V, A)
- Linear encoder type and resolution
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sizing guides without including the magnetic attraction force
- Ignoring cogging in smooth-scan or low-speed applications
- Leaving out heat dissipation into the machine structure
- Allowing ferrous debris to collect on the open magnet track
Yaskawa SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear: frequently asked questions
What is the Yaskawa SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear?
Iron-core linear servomotor with magnets either side of the coil to cancel the attraction force, for high-force axes on modular magnet tracks. It is made by Yaskawa Electric Corporation; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the Yaskawa SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear?
The Yaskawa SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear is made by Yaskawa (Yaskawa Electric Corporation) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with Yaskawa Electric Corporation; brand names are used only to identify the product.
Is there an alternative to the Yaskawa SGLT / SGLTW twin-magnet linear?
Yes. On published figures, Akribis Systems AJM and Akribis Systems AKM are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is the difference between iron-core and ironless linear motors?
Iron-core motors wind coils on an iron core, giving higher force and better heat removal, but with cogging and a strong magnetic attraction to the track. Ironless motors have coils without iron running between two rows of magnets, so there is no cogging or attraction, giving very smooth motion with lower force and less heat capacity.
Why does an iron-core linear motor need strong guides?
The iron core is strongly attracted to the magnet track, typically with a force several times the rated thrust. That load acts on the guide bearings all the time, even at rest. Guides must be sized for payload, process forces and this attraction, or bearing life will be much shorter than expected.
Further reading: How to select a linear motor · Linear actuators
Other iron-core linear motor series
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