Linear Motors

A linear motor is simply one which produces motion in a straight line rather than in a circle. We give an overview of the technology and its applications, including examples of ‘genuine’ linear motors and related devices.
Although space does not permit a full introduction to electromagnetic theory in this article, we should mention that there are linear drive systems where electricity is turned into motion in a straight line which we nevertheless do not count as genuine ‘linear motors’. These are so-called dynamic actuators which operate on a very simple principle using a magnet and a coil, and which have long been used in various applications.