Integrated-motor actuator
IAI ELECYLINDER integrated-motor actuator
IAI's simplified electric actuator family with motor, encoder and controller in the body, run from simple on/off signals; slider types reach strokes of up to 2,800 mm and payloads of up to 400 kg in the large series, and radial cylinders up to 6,000 N push force (series maxima).
Key specifications
| Ingress protection | Sliders IP40/IP43/IP44 by model; rod types IP67 |
|---|---|
| Force (max) | 6,000 N |
| Stroke (max) | 2,800 mm |
| Payload (max) | 400 kg |
| Variants | Slider, rod, radial cylinder, table, gripper, rotary, stopper, belt-driven, cleanroom, dust/splash-proof |
| Control | Built-in controller; on/off (solenoid-valve style) signals; speed, acceleration and deceleration set as percentages |
Summarised in our own words from IAI Corporation's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1 · Source 2
Notes on this data
Repeatability, supply voltage and network options not published on the pages read. force_N_max is the radial cylinder push force; rotary models 0.6-25.2 Nm.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with IAI Corporation. IAI and ELECYLINDER 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 an IAI 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.
Rod actuator with a built-in servo motor driving a ball or roller screw, in four sizes up to 30.6 kN, offered in white food-grade and black heavy-duty finishes.
| Published maximum | ELECYLINDER | IMA Integrated Motor Actuator |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 6,000 N | 30,600 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 2,800 mm | 457 mm |
| Speed | — | 1,334 mm/s |
Screw-driven rodless actuator with recirculating ball-bearing guidance integral to the extrusion, so it carries loads up to 35.6 kN (with carrier options) without external guides.
| Published maximum | ELECYLINDER | B3S Screw-Drive Rodless |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 6,000 N | 12,010 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 2,800 mm | 4,547 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | — | 1,524 mm/s |
Economical rodless screw actuator derived from the BC2 band cylinder, with solid-bearing rods and a stainless band seal for light to moderate loads.
| Published maximum | ELECYLINDER | BCS Rodless Screw (BCS/MCS) |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 6,000 N | 11,700 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 2,800 mm | 3,048 mm meets or exceeds |
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 integrated-motor actuator is
An integrated-motor actuator combines the servo motor and the screw in one body, often with the motor rotor driving the screw or nut directly instead of through a coupling or belt. Many use an inverted roller screw inside a hollow rotor for a very compact, stiff design. Some versions also integrate the servo drive and position controller, so the actuator needs only power and a command or fieldbus connection. The result is a shorter, sealed unit with fewer parts to align.
When engineers choose an integrated-motor actuator
Choose an integrated-motor actuator when space is tight, a clean sealed package is wanted, or decentralised control reduces cabinet size and cabling. It suits welding guns, robot cells and hygienic plant. The trade-offs are flexibility and service: the motor cannot be changed independently, thermal limits are shared and repairs may mean replacing the whole unit. A separate motor and actuator lets you change motor size or brand later and is often easier to source as spare parts.
How to specify the IAI ELECYLINDER
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ELECYLINDER variant or an equivalent:
- Force, peak and continuous (N)
- Stroke (mm) and speed (mm/s)
- Supply voltage: mains AC or low-voltage DC (V)
- Control interface: analogue, pulse, Modbus or industrial Ethernet
- Feedback and absolute position needs
- Duty cycle and ambient temperature (°C)
- Sealing and cleaning requirements (IP code)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Overlooking heat build-up when motor and screw share one housing
- Assuming any drive will run it, when integrated units may need a matched drive
- Not checking cable routing and connector orientation on the machine
- Forgetting spare strategy when the whole unit is one part
IAI ELECYLINDER: frequently asked questions
What is the IAI ELECYLINDER?
IAI's simplified electric actuator family with motor, encoder and controller in the body, run from simple on/off signals; slider types reach strokes of up to 2,800 mm and payloads of up to 400 kg in the large series, and radial cylinders up to 6,000 N push force (series maxima). Published series figures include force 6,000 N, stroke 2,800 mm, payload 400 kg. It is made by IAI Corporation; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the IAI ELECYLINDER?
The IAI ELECYLINDER is made by IAI (IAI Corporation) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with IAI Corporation; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the force of the IAI ELECYLINDER?
The published series maximum force is 6,000 N. Individual models and sizes in the ELECYLINDER range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the IAI ELECYLINDER?
Yes. On published figures, Tolomatic IMA Integrated Motor Actuator and Tolomatic B3S Screw-Drive Rodless are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What are the advantages of an integrated motor actuator?
Combining motor and screw removes couplings, belts and the alignment that goes with them, so the actuator is shorter, stiffer and easier to seal. Versions with built-in drives also reduce cabinet space and cable runs. The downside is less flexibility for changing motor size and a larger, more expensive spare part.
Can an integrated actuator be controlled from a PLC?
Yes. Versions with built-in drives typically accept analogue, pulse and direction, discrete I/O or industrial Ethernet commands from a PLC. Versions without a drive need a compatible servo drive, often from a matched range. State the controller and network protocol at the outset so the right variant is selected.
Further reading: How to select a linear actuator · Ball screw vs roller screw · Linear actuators
Other integrated-motor actuator series
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