Linear stepper actuator
Nanotec L / LS stepper linear actuators
Stepper-motor linear actuators in non-captive (LA), captive (LGA) and external-nut (LSA) versions from NEMA 6 to NEMA 23, up to 1,316.6 N and 325.1 mm/s, with 0.4–6.35 mm leads and anti-backlash nut options.
Key specifications
| Force (max) | 1,316.6 N |
|---|---|
| Linear speed (max) | 325.1 mm/s |
| Screw lead | 0.4–6.35 |
| Screw type | lead screw (standard or anti-backlash nut) |
| NEMA sizes | 6, 8, 11, 14, 17, 23 |
| Resolution | 1.5–63.5 µm/step depending on size and lead |
Summarised in our own words from Nanotec Electronic GmbH's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Notes on this data
Stroke lengths not stated on the page.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Nanotec Electronic GmbH. Nanotec and L / LS stepper linear 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 Nanotec 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.
Hybrid stepper with integral anti-rotation lead-screw shaft that extends like a cylinder, for precise short-stroke positioning.
| Published maximum | L / LS stepper linear actuators | Captive Linear Stepper Actuator (Elect… |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 1,316.6 N | 2,400 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | — | 63.5 mm |
| Speed | 325.1 mm/s | — |
Hybrid stepper whose lead screw passes through the motor, giving long travel limited only by screw length; needs external anti-rotation.
| Published maximum | L / LS stepper linear actuators | Non-captive Linear Stepper Actuator |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 1,316.6 N | 2,400 N meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 325.1 mm/s | — |
Hybrid stepper with an external rotating lead screw and travelling nut, the most flexible format for driving slides and stages.
| Published maximum | L / LS stepper linear actuators | External Linear Stepper Actuator |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 1,316.6 N | 2,400 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | — | 500 mm |
| Speed | 325.1 mm/s | — |
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 a linear stepper actuator is
A linear stepper actuator is a hybrid stepper motor with a lead screw built into the motor, so it produces linear motion directly. In captive designs the screw extends from the motor with built-in anti-rotation, like a small cylinder. In non-captive designs the screw passes through the motor and the nut is fixed externally. In external designs the motor turns a screw with a travelling nut. Each step gives a small, predictable linear increment set by the screw lead.
When engineers choose a linear stepper actuator
Choose a linear stepper for short strokes and light loads needing simple, open-loop positioning, such as dosing, valves, laboratory instruments and small mechanisms. It removes couplings and keeps the design compact. The trade-offs are speed and force: stepper torque falls with speed, and lead screws are inefficient. Missed steps under overload go unnoticed without feedback, so add an encoder where positions must be verified.
How to specify the Nanotec L / LS stepper linear actuators
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right L / LS stepper linear actuators variant or an equivalent:
- Format: captive, non-captive or external screw
- Force needed (N) and speed (mm/s)
- Stroke (mm)
- Screw lead and resolution per step (mm)
- Frame size (NEMA or mm)
- Drive voltage and current (V, A)
- Feedback, if verification is required
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using the holding force figure instead of the force at the operating speed
- Omitting anti-rotation on non-captive and external designs
- Running without feedback where a stall would cause a fault
- Expecting high speed from a fine-lead screw
Nanotec L / LS stepper linear actuators: frequently asked questions
What is the Nanotec L / LS stepper linear actuators?
Stepper-motor linear actuators in non-captive (LA), captive (LGA) and external-nut (LSA) versions from NEMA 6 to NEMA 23, up to 1,316.6 N and 325.1 mm/s, with 0.4–6.35 mm leads and anti-backlash nut options. Published series figures include force 1,316.6 N, linear speed 325.1 mm/s. It is made by Nanotec Electronic GmbH; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the Nanotec L / LS stepper linear actuators?
The Nanotec L / LS stepper linear actuators is made by Nanotec (Nanotec Electronic GmbH) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with Nanotec Electronic GmbH; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the force of the Nanotec L / LS stepper linear actuators?
The published series maximum force is 1,316.6 N. Individual models and sizes in the L / LS stepper linear 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 Nanotec L / LS stepper linear actuators?
Yes. On published figures, DINGS' Captive Linear Stepper Actuator (Electric Cylinder) and DINGS' Non-captive Linear Stepper Actuator are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is the difference between captive and non-captive linear steppers?
A captive linear stepper has the screw and a splined shaft built in, so the shaft extends and retracts without turning and needs no external anti-rotation. A non-captive design has the screw passing through the motor, giving longer travel, but the screw must be stopped from turning by the load. External designs turn the screw and drive a separate nut.
Do linear stepper actuators need an encoder?
Not always. Steppers position open loop well when sized with margin and the load is predictable. Add an encoder or a closed-loop drive when a missed step would cause a fault, the load varies, or you need to confirm position after power loss.
Further reading: How to select a stepper motor · Closed loop stepper motors explained · Linear actuators
Other linear stepper actuator series
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