What Is an XY Stage?

A precision XY table allows motion in two degrees of freedom (2-DOF), enabling more accurate sample positioning and extensive coverage. Reliant Systems, Inc. offers several versions to accommodate various manufacturing operations and environments. 

Depending on the type, an XY stage will have a specific motion mechanism to facilitate flat movement along the X and Y planes. 

Rollers

Rollers are the simplest and most cost-effective stage option. However, they offer lower accuracy compared to other options such as crossed rollers, which enhance reliability and stability for improved performance. 

Ball Bearings

Ball bearings provide another cost-effective XY positioning stage option. Many manufacturers favor them over rollers due to their additional versatility. They perform equally well in low-speed and high-speed positioning applications. 

Air Bearings

These stage systems are known for their extraordinarily flat movement, making them the ideal solution for display manufacturing and wafer inspection applications. Although these solutions are traditionally more expensive, significant long-term value is found within frictionless motion that eliminates mechanical contact, resulting in ultra-smooth movement, wear-free operation, and vibration damping. They also provide high speeds, rapid acceleration, contamination-free performance without lubricants, and greater load capacity with enhanced stiffness to maintain rigidity. 

Industries Served

Precision XY stages perform well in various industries and applications:

• Laser processing: These motion solutions ensure high-precision laser beam direction to optimize object cutting, engraving, and marking. 
• Semiconductors: An XY motion stage maximizes wafer table positioning and repeatability within semiconductor manufacturing. 
• Quality control: Utilize precise XY stages to conduct automated surface topography scans to detect manufacturing defects. 
• Medical devices: These stages improve precision with sensitive medical devices. For example, they enhance surgical instrument positioning by providing stability, accuracy, and repeatability.
• Research: Laboratories employ XY stages to precisely position and manipulate samples when conducting experiments. An example is a microscopy application in which researchers must precisely scan a specimen for analysis.

Reliant Systems, Inc. can also support additional applications, including microscopy, metrology, precision machining, and various automated processes.

Why Partner With Us?

At Reliant Systems, Inc., we recognize every industry and application requires a unique approach to precision motion control solutions. Our flexibility and experience enable us to customize our precision XY stages to deliver results that continuously exceed our customers' expectations. 

You can also count on us for attentive support throughout the process. Our dedicated customer support staff will provide dependable guidance from project conception through order fulfillment. You will have access to reliable resources for any questions or concerns. 

Contact Us for More Information and a Quote Today

Learn more about the advantages that a precision XY stage from Reliant Systems, Inc. can bring to your manufacturing process by contacting us today. Call us at 763-856-8300 to discuss your project and request a quote, or return the contact form.