PDR160 Rotary Stage from Primatics

Primatics PDR160 Rotary StageWhen precision, repeatability, and speed matter, the Primatics PDR160 rotary table delivers exceptional rotary positioning performance. Built with direct-drive motor technology and high-resolution encoder feedback, the PDR160 eliminates backlash and mechanical wear common in worm-driven systems. This makes it an ideal solution for semiconductor inspection, laser processing, metrology, and automated test systems requiring continuous, ultra-accurate rotational motion.

Its compact footprint, oversized cross-roller bearing, and simplified cable management make integration easier for machine builders and engineers seeking long-term reliability with minimal maintenance.

Advantages

PDR160 Rotary Stage Advantages & Features

Precision Without Compromise

The PDR160 is engineered for applications where even the smallest angular deviation can affect quality. Unlike traditional geared rotary tables, its direct-drive architecture removes backlash, reduces friction, and improves responsiveness.

Key Advantages:

  • Sub-arcsecond repeatability for ultra-precise positioning
  • Resolution down to 0.063 arcseconds
  • 360° continuous rotary travel
  • High servo stiffness for dynamic performance
  • Reduced maintenance due to fewer wear components
  • Compact mechanical profile for space-constrained systems

For manufacturers focused on yield, consistency, and throughput, the PDR160 helps improve process accuracy while reducing long-term service requirements.

At the core of the PDR160 is a high-pole-count brushless servo motor paired directly with a high-resolution optical encoder mounted to the rotating platen. This combination allows for smoother velocity control, excellent repeatability, and faster stabilization after movement.

Performance Features:

  • High acceleration for shorter cycle times
  • Low velocity ripple at slow rotational speeds
  • Minimal thermal buildup during operation
  • Improved angular control for inspection systems
  • Error-mapped accuracy options available

This level of performance is especially valuable in semiconductor wafer inspection, laser machining, and optical alignment systems.

Integration

PDR160 Rotary Stage Integration

Machine builders need components that are easy to install and dependable over time. The PDR160 simplifies integration with a single cable connection and a built-in home sensor for fast referencing.

Its oversized cross-roller bearing provides superior load support and rigidity, allowing the stage to maintain accuracy even under heavier payloads.

Integration Benefits:

  • Single-cable electrical connection
  • Large center aperture for cable or hose routing
  • Compact footprint for easier machine design
  • Home sensor for repeatable initialization
  • Cleanroom-ready ISO 4 option available

The result is a rotary platform designed for uptime, cleaner cable routing, and easier system architecture.

It’s easy to integrate the PDR160 into an automation system. It includes a simplified single-cable interface, built-in homing capability, and a center aperture for cable management, making it easier to integrate into custom automation platforms.

Applications

PDR160 Rotary Stage Applications & Industries

The PDR160 excels in environments where rotational precision directly affects product quality and process repeatability.

Common Applications:

  • Semiconductor wafer inspection
  • Laser micromachining
  • Optical metrology
  • Automated vision inspection
  • Precision assembly systems
  • Medical device manufacturing
  • Photonics alignment systems

Because direct-drive technology eliminates gear wear, the PDR160 is especially well suited for high-duty-cycle systems requiring consistent performance over time.

Industries

The PDR160 is frequently used in semiconductor manufacturing, photonics, laser processing, metrology, and medical device production—anywhere ultra-precise rotational positioning is critical.

The PDR160’s high encoder resolution, low velocity ripple, and fast settling allow precise angular positioning and stable measurements—critical for metrology and optical inspection.

An ISO 4 cleanroom option is available, making it suitable for cleanroom environments like semiconductor and contamination-sensitive applications. 

Q & A

PDR160 Rotary Stage Q & A

+Why would I choose a direct-drive rotary table over a worm-driven rotary stage?
Direct-drive rotary tables like the PDR160 eliminate backlash, mechanical wear, and torque inconsistencies associated with gears. This results in faster settling times, smoother low-speed performance, and better long-term accuracy for precision automation applications.
+How accurate is the Primatics PDR160?
The PDR160 offers angular resolution as fine as 0.063 arcseconds and positioning accuracy of ±5 arcseconds. This level of precision makes it ideal for measurement, alignment, and inspection applications.
+What is the maximum load capacity of the Primatics PDR160?
The PDR160 supports up to 20 kg of axial load, making it suitable for larger fixtures, tooling, and inspection payloads without sacrificing precision.
+Does the PDR160 require regular maintenance?
Because it uses direct-drive technology instead of gears or belts, maintenance requirements are significantly lower. Fewer moving parts mean less wear and greater reliability over time.
+How does the PDR160 improve machine throughput?
The direct-drive motor enables faster acceleration and shorter settling times, reducing cycle delays and improving overall machine productivity.


 

Downloads

Download Primatics PDR160C Rotary Stage Datasheet

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