Linear stage
PI (Physik Instrumente) H-850 hexapod linear stage
Six-axis parallel-kinematic hexapod carrying up to 250 kg (H-850.H2A, horizontal base), with ±50 mm X/Y and ±25 mm Z travel, brushless DC gear motors and absolute encoders.
Key specifications
| Temperature | -10–50 °C |
|---|---|
| Stroke (max) | 100 mm |
| Linear speed (max) | 8 mm/s |
| Feedback | Absolute multi-turn rotary encoders |
| Axes | 6 |
| Payload (max) | 250 kg |
| Repeatability | ±0.5 to ±0.6 µm X/Y, ±0.2 µm Z |
| Travel | X/Y ±50 mm, Z ±25 mm, θX/θY ±15°, θZ ±30° |
| Controller | C-887.5xx |
Summarised in our own words from HOERBIGER Holding (Positioning Division)'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1 · Source 2
Notes on this data
stroke_mm_max = full X travel (±50 mm). speed 8 mm/s is the faster G2A variant (50 kg).
Specify Motion is not affiliated with HOERBIGER Holding (Positioning Division). PI (Physik Instrumente) and H-850 hexapod 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 PI (Physik Instrumente) 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 | H-850 hexapod | TRS Twin Profile Rail Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Force | — | 12,590 N |
| Stroke | 100 mm | 2,200 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 8 mm/s | 1,270 mm/s meets or exceeds |
Twin profile-rail screw stage listed in the Tolomatic overview brochure; appears to be the predecessor of the TRS family.
| Published maximum | H-850 hexapod | TKS Dual Profile Rail Bearing |
|---|---|---|
| Force | — | 14,501 N |
| Stroke | 100 mm | 2,438 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 8 mm/s | 1,016 mm/s meets or exceeds |
Economical stainless-tube electric rod actuator in sizes 10, 15 and 20, aimed at replacing pneumatic cylinders for gating, sorting and diverting; SS1/SS2 options give an all-stainless, IP69K washdown build.
| Published maximum | H-850 hexapod | ERD (incl. ERD-SS1 / ERD-SS2 stainless… |
|---|---|---|
| Force | — | 2,224 N |
| Stroke | 100 mm | 610 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 8 mm/s | 1,016 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.
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 PI (Physik Instrumente) H-850 hexapod
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right H-850 hexapod 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
PI (Physik Instrumente) H-850 hexapod: frequently asked questions
What is the PI (Physik Instrumente) H-850 hexapod?
Six-axis parallel-kinematic hexapod carrying up to 250 kg (H-850.H2A, horizontal base), with ±50 mm X/Y and ±25 mm Z travel, brushless DC gear motors and absolute encoders. Published series figures include temperature -10 °C, temperature 50 °C, stroke 100 mm, linear speed 8 mm/s. It is made by HOERBIGER Holding (Positioning Division); Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the PI (Physik Instrumente) H-850 hexapod?
The PI (Physik Instrumente) H-850 hexapod is made by PI (Physik Instrumente) (HOERBIGER Holding (Positioning Division)) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with HOERBIGER Holding (Positioning Division); brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the temperature of the PI (Physik Instrumente) H-850 hexapod?
The published series minimum temperature is -10 °C. Individual models and sizes in the H-850 hexapod 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 PI (Physik Instrumente) H-850 hexapod?
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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