Motion Control

Motion Control is a sub-field of automation where the position or velocities of machines are controlled by using devices like pumps, linear actuators or electric motors.
Motion Control is an important part of robotics and CNC machine tools – however, these applications are typically more complex compared to those of specialised machines. In many cases mechanical components like gears, shafts, bearings, ball screws, belts and pulleys are used to transform the motion of an actuator into the desired motion needed for a specific application.
To control the motion of an application, feedback sensors and switches are used to close the position or velocity control loops to the motion controller.

Latest products for motion control applications

We are constantly expanding our motion control product offer with the latest cutting-edge solutions from the leading industrial brands and the most innovative start-ups

EPCO electric cylinders - perform perfectly, work intelligently






Pneumatic actuators
support fast movements for less and offer end positions with a limited controlled motion in-between. For applications which require a more flexible solution with unlimited positions at a defined speed, acceleration and force, electric cylinders are the preferred choice - however, prices are typically much higher than the pneumatic alternative. 


With the EPCO series from Festo, RS now offers the perfect product for those who are looking for flexible and precise positioning with very little noise and easier installation/configuration.
EPCO electric cylinders have an integrated motor with encoder and in combination with the CMMO-ST motor controller they provide a closed loop system which can be easily set up via an integrated web server or with a free to download configuration tool.

EPCO electric cylinders from Festo are intended to serve light industrial applications in factory automation.

Find more information and useful links on Designspark  

Use intelligent power supplies to predict errors in your motion control system





From a first view, it is easy to oversee the features that make QUINT4 from Phoenix Contact outstanding. e.g. the option to pre-define customised settings in an app or software and upload these via NFC to the power supply. This feature allows to configure many QUINT4s easily with the same settings, but also to change or adjust uploaded settings even of an already installed unit quickly.

Even better, imagine there is a power supply that has the intelligence to trigger alarms or provide the option to monitor data from a system. With the 4-20mA output that is available on QUINT4, it is possible to indicate critical operating states before an error occurs. Especially for motion control systems where mechanical parts like bearings or brushes play an essential role and need regular exchange to ensure smooth and precise positioning, this can be of huge benefit. If for instance, a bearing comes to its life-end the increasing friction would require an increased force from a motor, so would cause a higher power consumption which could be used to trigger events from the analogue output for predictive maintenance purposes. 

The above are just a few of innovative features which make QUINT4 more than just another power supply. 

Find out more about QUINT 4 on Designspark

More predictive maintenance solutions

We are constantly expanding our Industrial IoT offer with smart solutions which can be easily integrated into the existing production line. Products like the SKF Machine Condition Indicator, the Calex NFC sensor and the Flir AX8 thermal sensor can be used to predict and anticipate the failure of the most critical conveyor parts such as motors, bearings, actuators, belts and rollers

Discover all the latest Industrial IoT solutions

Complete solutions and services for the conveyor system maintenance

Conveyors - Parts and consumables

RS Components is here to support the maintenance of conveyor systems with a complete offer of spare parts and consumables that, combined with our services, will help you to keep your production line up and running.

Conveyors - Related added value services

Critical and long lead time spare parts
Keeping safety stock of all critical and long lead time parts of a conveyor is essential. With a wide range of products and brands available from stock and our fast delivery, RS Components can help you to cut down your stock holding

Obsolete parts
RS Components is working close with suppliers which allow us to still offer components which are already phased out by the manufacturer. In addition we highlight possible replacements of obsolete parts on our websites. This supports our customers in having a smooth transition to the new equivalent which often provides improved performance and features.

Preventive and planned maintenance
With our forward order service we can deliver your spare parts exactly when and where you need them.
Find out more about Forward Orders

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