Integrated robot joint actuator
MAB Robotics MA-D direct-drive actuators
Gearless, backdrivable actuators with integrated MD controller and 14-bit encoder in 30 to 100 mm sizes, including hollow-shaft versions; the MA-D-gl80 gives 1 Nm rated and 2.9 Nm peak and 2,390 rpm at 48 V.
Key specifications
| Voltage (max) | 48 V |
|---|---|
| Outer diameter (max) | 87 mm |
| Data / bus | CAN FD, CANopen |
| Rated torque (max) | 1 Nm |
| Peak torque (max) | 2.9 Nm |
| Speed (max) | 2,390 rpm |
| Supply | 12–48 V DC |
| Feedback | 14-bit absolute encoder |
| Weight | 339 g |
| Sizes | gl30, gl35, gl40, gl60, gl80, gl100 (and HS hollow-shaft versions) |
Summarised in our own words from MAB Robotics Sp. z o.o.'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1 · Source 2 · Source 3
Notes on this data
Torque, speed, mass and diameter are for MA-D-gl80 v2.0 (KV60 option); the gl100 is larger.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with MAB Robotics Sp. z o.o.. MAB Robotics and MA-D direct-drive actuators 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 MAB Robotics 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.
High-rigidity Wanshsin inline planetary with three backlash classes down to super-precision, for machine tools, automation and AGVs.
| Published maximum | MA-D direct-drive actuators | WSH |
|---|---|---|
| Peak torque | 2.9 Nm | 7,200 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Rated torque | 1 Nm | 2,400 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 2,390 rpm | 6,000 rpm meets or exceeds |
Right-angle version of the high-rigidity WSH, with a spiral bevel stage and ratios up to 200:1.
| Published maximum | MA-D direct-drive actuators | WSHR |
|---|---|---|
| Peak torque | 2.9 Nm | 4,200 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Rated torque | 1 Nm | 1,400 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 2,390 rpm | 6,000 rpm meets or exceeds |
Wanshsin inline planetary designed for high radial loads, offered in three precision classes.
| Published maximum | MA-D direct-drive actuators | WTH |
|---|---|---|
| Peak torque | 2.9 Nm | 6,150 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Rated torque | 1 Nm | 2,050 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 2,390 rpm | 6,000 rpm 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 robot joint actuator is
An integrated robot joint actuator packages a brushless motor, a reduction gear, encoders, a servo drive and often a brake or torque sensor into one module that bolts in as a robot joint. Gearing may be planetary, strain-wave or cycloidal. Many are designed for legged robots, humanoids and cobots, with low gear ratios or quasi-direct drive to keep the joint back-drivable and responsive. Communication is typically over CAN or EtherCAT, with position, velocity and torque control modes.
When engineers choose an integrated robot joint actuator
Choose an integrated joint actuator to build robots faster with fewer parts, especially legged, humanoid, exoskeleton and collaborative robots. Back-drivable versions suit force control and impacts. The trade-offs are torque density, precision and industrial qualification: low-ratio designs trade output torque for transparency, and some units are aimed at research rather than production duty. For industrial arms with heavy duty cycles, a dedicated harmonic actuator or motor and gear set may be better.
How to specify the MAB Robotics MA-D direct-drive actuators
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right MA-D direct-drive actuators variant or an equivalent:
- Peak and continuous output torque (Nm)
- Output speed (rpm)
- Gear type and ratio
- Back-drivability and torque sensing
- Supply voltage (V DC)
- Communication interface and control modes
- Mass and size (kg, mm)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using peak torque as continuous torque
- Ignoring thermal limits in legged robots
- Overlooking bus bandwidth with many joints
- Assuming research-grade units meet industrial life requirements
MAB Robotics MA-D direct-drive actuators: frequently asked questions
What is the MAB Robotics MA-D direct-drive actuators?
Gearless, backdrivable actuators with integrated MD controller and 14-bit encoder in 30 to 100 mm sizes, including hollow-shaft versions; the MA-D-gl80 gives 1 Nm rated and 2.9 Nm peak and 2,390 rpm at 48 V. Published series figures include voltage 48 V, outer diameter 87 mm, rated torque 1 Nm, peak torque 2.9 Nm. It is made by MAB Robotics Sp. z o.o.; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the MAB Robotics MA-D direct-drive actuators?
The MAB Robotics MA-D direct-drive actuators is made by MAB Robotics (MAB Robotics Sp. z o.o.) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with MAB Robotics Sp. z o.o.; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the voltage of the MAB Robotics MA-D direct-drive actuators?
The published series maximum voltage is 48 V. Individual models and sizes in the MA-D direct-drive actuators 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 MAB Robotics MA-D direct-drive actuators?
Yes. On published figures, Wanshsin WSH and Wanshsin WSHR are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is a quasi-direct-drive actuator?
A quasi-direct-drive actuator uses a high-torque motor with a low gear ratio, typically below about 10:1, so the joint is back-drivable and responds quickly to external forces. This suits legged robots and force control. The trade-off is lower output torque than high-ratio joints of similar size.
Why integrate the drive in a robot joint actuator?
Integrating the drive reduces cabling and lets each joint communicate over a shared bus, which simplifies robot design. It also allows the drive to sit close to the motor, improving control. The trade-off is that heat from both motor and drive must be managed inside the joint.
Further reading: How to select a harmonic actuator · Frameless motor sizing robot joints · Gearboxes and harmonic drives
Other integrated robot joint actuator series
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