Linear stage
HIWIN LMSSA linear stage
Single-axis linear motor stage with ironcore or ironless forcer in five widths; series maximum 2,048 N peak and 725 N continuous force, 5 m/s and 2,700 mm stroke, with optical or magnetic encoders to 0.1 um.
Key specifications
| Peak force (max) | 2,048 N |
|---|---|
| Continuous force (max) | 725 N |
| Stroke (max) | 2,700 mm |
| Linear speed (max) | 5,000 mm/s |
| Linear speed (max) | 5 m/s |
| Repeatability | 0.001 mm |
| Feedback | optical (0.1-1 um, analogue/digital/absolute) or magnetic (1 um) encoders |
| Resolution (finest) | 100 nm |
Summarised in our own words from HIWIN Technologies Corp.'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Notes on this data
Repeatability +/-1 um with optical encoders. 5 m/s applies to some models/high-voltage windings; 1.5 m/s limit with digital 0.1 um encoder.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with HIWIN Technologies Corp.. HIWIN and LMSSA 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 HIWIN 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.
Screw-driven rodless stage on twin profile rails with a wide, flat carrier, built for heavy, high-moment loads in machine tools, gantries and XYZ systems.
| Published maximum | LMSSA | TRS Twin Profile Rail Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 2,048 N | 12,590 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 2,700 mm | 2,200 mm |
| Speed | 5,000 mm/s | 1,270 mm/s |
Twin profile-rail screw stage listed in the Tolomatic overview brochure; appears to be the predecessor of the TRS family.
| Published maximum | LMSSA | TKS Dual Profile Rail Bearing |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 2,048 N | 14,501 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 2,700 mm | 2,438 mm |
| Speed | 5,000 mm/s | 1,016 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 | LMSSA | BCS Rodless Screw (BCS/MCS) |
|---|---|---|
| Force | 2,048 N | 11,700 N meets or exceeds |
| Stroke | 2,700 mm | 3,048 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 5,000 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 stage is
A linear stage is a precision positioning axis in which a carriage or table moves along precision guides, driven by a ball screw, lead screw, belt or linear motor. Compared with a general rodless actuator, a stage emphasises straightness, flatness, accuracy and repeatability, with careful control of pitch, yaw and roll. Stages commonly integrate limit sensors, home sensors and linear or rotary encoders, and they can be stacked into XY, XYZ or gantry systems.
When engineers choose a linear stage
Choose a linear stage when the application depends on positioning accuracy and smooth guided motion, such as inspection, metrology, laser processing, semiconductor and laboratory automation. The trade-offs are cost and payload: precision guides and feedback add cost, and stage precision depends on mounting surface flatness. For general automation where a tenth of a millimetre is enough, a standard rodless actuator is usually more economical.
How to specify the HIWIN LMSSA
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right LMSSA variant or an equivalent:
- Travel (mm)
- Accuracy, repeatability and resolution (µm)
- Straightness and flatness of travel (µm)
- Payload and moment loads (kg, Nm)
- Speed and settling time (mm/s, ms)
- Drive type: screw, belt or linear motor
- Encoder type, mounting surface and environment (cleanroom, vacuum)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mounting a precision stage on a surface that is less flat than the stage
- Confusing repeatability with accuracy
- Ignoring thermal effects from the motor in precision work
- Stacking axes without considering the combined error
HIWIN LMSSA: frequently asked questions
What is the HIWIN LMSSA?
Single-axis linear motor stage with ironcore or ironless forcer in five widths; series maximum 2,048 N peak and 725 N continuous force, 5 m/s and 2,700 mm stroke, with optical or magnetic encoders to 0.1 um. Published series figures include peak force 2,048 N, continuous force 725 N, stroke 2,700 mm, linear speed 5,000 mm/s. It is made by HIWIN Technologies Corp.; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the HIWIN LMSSA?
The HIWIN LMSSA is made by HIWIN (HIWIN Technologies Corp.) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with HIWIN Technologies Corp.; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the peak force of the HIWIN LMSSA?
The published series maximum peak force is 2,048 N. Individual models and sizes in the LMSSA 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 HIWIN LMSSA?
Yes. On published figures, Tolomatic TRS Twin Profile Rail Stage and Tolomatic TKS Dual Profile Rail Bearing are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is the difference between accuracy and repeatability on a linear stage?
Repeatability is how closely the stage returns to the same position, while accuracy is how close it moves to the commanded position. A stage can be very repeatable but not accurate if the screw has lead error. Accuracy can be improved with linear encoders or error mapping.
When should a linear stage use a linear motor instead of a screw?
Linear motors suit high speed, high acceleration and smooth motion with no backlash or wear, especially on long strokes. Screw-driven stages suit higher static force, vertical axes and lower cost. Linear motor stages need a linear encoder and careful thermal design, so they are typically more expensive.
Further reading: How to select a linear stage · How to select a linear motor · Linear actuators
Other linear stage series
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