Compact actuator
THK ES (Economy slider) compact actuator
Economy ball-screw slider with stepper or 50 W servo motor and THK TSC/TLC controllers; series maximum 600 mm stroke, 600 mm/s and 10 kg horizontal payload at +/-0.02 mm repeatability.
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Key specifications
| Force (max) | 266 N |
|---|---|
| Stroke (max) | 600 mm |
| Linear speed (max) | 600 mm/s |
| Repeatability | 0.02 mm |
| Payload (max) | 10 kg |
| Motor | stepper (28/35/42 mm) or 50 W servo |
| Controller | TSC (stepper), TLC (servo) |
Summarised in our own words from THK CO., LTD.'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Notes on this data
266 N is the theoretical pressing thrust with 6 mm lead.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with THK CO., LTD.. THK and ES (Economy slider) are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
THK ES (Economy slider) replacement and alternative options
Use these supply-network options as a starting point for an engineering check. We can also help source the original THK part. Published series figures do not establish an exact-model or drop-in replacement: confirm ratings, fit, interfaces and approvals for your application.
Ballscrew-driven linear module with built-in guide rail, supplied with or without an AC servo motor, for industrial positioning and multi-axis XY/XYZ systems.
| Published maximum | ES (Economy slider) | LE Ballscrew Linear Actuator (semi-sea… |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 266 N | 2,050 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 600 mm | 1,450 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 600 mm/s | 1,600 mm/s meets or exceeds |
Fully enclosed, dust-resistant version of the LE ballscrew module for cleanroom and contamination-sensitive work.
| Published maximum | ES (Economy slider) | LEC Ballscrew Linear Actuator (fully s… |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 266 N | 945 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 600 mm | 1,250 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 600 mm/s | 1,250 mm/s meets or exceeds |
Ball-screw servo electric cylinder in seven frame sizes from 32 to 150, with inline or reverse-parallel motor mounting and optional force sensing, aimed at hydraulic and pneumatic replacement.
| Published maximum | ES (Economy slider) | SRB Linear Servo Actuator |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 266 N | 49,033 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 600 mm | 1,000 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 600 mm/s | 1,250 mm/s 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.
Typical applications
What a compact actuator is
A compact actuator is a self-contained electric linear actuator, typically with a low-voltage brushed DC motor, a gear stage and an acme or ball screw driving a rod. Most include built-in limit switches and can be powered by simply connecting 12 or 24 V DC, reversing polarity to change direction. Options often include position feedback by potentiometer, Hall sensors or encoders, and onboard control electronics. They are designed for simple, cost-effective movement rather than high-precision servo control.
When engineers choose a compact actuator
Choose a compact actuator for intermittent adjustments such as opening, lifting, tilting and positioning in mobility, medical furniture, agricultural and light industrial equipment. Installation is simple and cost is low. The trade-offs are duty cycle, speed and precision: many units are rated for intermittent duty, typically around 25% on time, and brushed motors wear. For continuous cycling or tight positioning, a servo-driven rod actuator is more appropriate.
How to specify the THK ES (Economy slider)
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ES (Economy slider) variant or an equivalent:
- Supply voltage (V DC) and current limit (A)
- Force push and pull (N)
- Stroke (mm) and retracted length
- Speed under load (mm/s)
- Duty cycle (% on time)
- Feedback: limit switches, potentiometer, Hall or encoder
- Sealing (IP code) and temperature range (°C)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Running a 25% duty actuator continuously and overheating the motor
- Ignoring the drop in speed under load and voltage
- Not allowing for side loads in pivot mountings
- Assuming acme units always hold position under vibration
THK ES (Economy slider): frequently asked questions
Can you help replace THK ES (Economy slider) or source the original?
Send the full model code, quantity and required date. Our engineers can check original-part availability and assess suitable alternatives, including Motion Control Products options where appropriate. We confirm compatibility and any changes needed before recommending a replacement.
What is the THK ES (Economy slider)?
Economy ball-screw slider with stepper or 50 W servo motor and THK TSC/TLC controllers; series maximum 600 mm stroke, 600 mm/s and 10 kg horizontal payload at +/-0.02 mm repeatability. Published series figures include force 266 N, stroke 600 mm, linear speed 600 mm/s, repeatability 0.02 mm. It is made by THK CO., LTD.; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the THK ES (Economy slider)?
The THK ES (Economy slider) is made by THK (THK CO., LTD.) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with THK CO., LTD.; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the force of the THK ES (Economy slider)?
The published series maximum force is 266 N. Individual models and sizes in the ES (Economy slider) 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 THK ES (Economy slider)?
We can assess suitable replacement options. On published figures, Motion Control Products LE Ballscrew Linear Actuator (semi-sealed) and Motion Control Products LEC Ballscrew Linear Actuator (fully sealed) are options to assess from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What does duty cycle mean for an electric actuator?
Duty cycle is the proportion of time the actuator can run without overheating, usually given as a percentage and a time window. A 25% rating means, for example, about two and a half minutes of running in every ten. Exceed it and the motor overheats. For continuous motion choose a unit rated for higher duty.
Do 12 V actuators hold their position when power is removed?
Many acme-screw compact actuators resist back-driving because of the screw and gear friction, and some add a brake. Ball screw versions are efficient and can back-drive under load. Vibration can still cause creep, so check the static holding force on the datasheet for the orientation and loads in your application.
Further reading: How to select a linear actuator · How to size a linear actuator · Linear actuators
Other compact actuator series
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