--- title: "From Pick-and-Place to Rotary Indexing: How to Choose the Right Actuator for Modern Automation" description: Actuators are devices that convert energy into controlled mechanical motion. Some examples of actuator applications include opening valves, moving robot arms, and operating lifting mechanisms.  Proper actuator selection affects machine accuracy, throughput, flexibility, maintenance requirements, and overall system cost. image: https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hubfs/Featured%20image%20for%20EZS%2c%20DR%2c%20and%20DGII%20blog.png --- [![Oriental Motor U.S.A. 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Some examples of actuator applications include opening valves, moving robot arms, and operating lifting mechanisms.  Proper actuator selection affects machine accuracy, throughput, flexibility, maintenance requirements, and overall system cost. This article examines three common actuator categories and practical application examples using Oriental Motor's EZS Series linear slides, DR/DRS2 Series electric cylinders, and DGII Series hollow rotary actuators. --- Modern factories are demanding greater flexibility from their machines.  These demands include programmable multi-stop positioning, reduced maintenance, networking capability, and the ability to change parameters on the fly. Electric actuators have several key advantages over pneumatic and hydraulic actuators: • Multi-stop precision – electric actuators use motor-driven screws or gear systems with direct electronic control, enabling high multi-stop positioning accuracy and repeatability • Higher efficiency – no leakage losses from pneumatic systems and no friction and heat losses from hydraulic systems • Simple network integration and programming– electric actuators and drivers are easier to network, program, and integrate with host controllers and devices • Lower operating costs – while initially higher, electric actuators have lower long-term costs due to reduced maintenance needs from compressed air or hydraulic fluids • Quieter and less maintenance – electric actuators are quieter and have fewer moving parts exposed to wear compared to pneumatic or hydraulic systems     Oriental Motor’s complete electric actuator solutions are pre-assembled with battery-free absolute encoders for reliable closed-loop operation and offer our patented αSTEP Step-Servo hybrid control technology with low-loss laminations. Program smooth acceleration, stable low-speed travel, and flexible multi-point stops without hardware changes.  Furthermore, our specifications are guaranteed.   Linear actuators move loads along a straight path and are commonly used for transport systems, pick-and-place equipment, vertical lifting axes, and precision assembly operations. Rotary actuators position, index, or rotate a load around a central axis. Typical applications include rotary indexing tables, inspection fixtures, assembly nests, and packaging machinery.   The rest of the article covers: Oriental Motor Actuator Lineup Overview EZS Series Application Example: Cartesian Pick-and-Place Transfer System DR/DRS2 Series Application Example: Precision Press-Fit and Z-Axis Assembly DGII Series Application Example: Rotary Indexing Fixture with Cable-Through Center Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Actuator Summary   Oriental Motor Actuator Lineup Overview We’d like to highlight 3 of our actuators for transferring, positioning, and rotating objects.    | **Transfer** **EZS Series** linear slides are available in standard type, a shorter reversed motor type, and cleanroom types. | **Position** **DR/DRS2 Series** compact linear actuatorsmove light loads and save space with a hollow rotor design. | **Rotate** **DGII Series** hollow rotary actuatorsofferlarge hollow bore diameters and can drive large inertial loads. | | --- | --- | --- | | ![](https://www.orientalmotor.com/images/linear-actuators/linear-actuators-ezsm-series-group-200px.jpg) | ![](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Sep-29-2026-09-44-58-6933-PM.png?upscale=true&width=175&height=175&name=image-png-Sep-29-2026-09-44-58-6933-PM.png) | ![](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Sep-29-2026-09-45-05-5841-PM.png?upscale=true&width=175&height=175&name=image-png-Sep-29-2026-09-45-05-5841-PM.png) | | • Repetitive positioning accuracy: ±0.02 mm • Max load: 60 kg • Max stroke: 850 mm | • Repetitive positioning accuracy: ±0.003 mm (ground ball screw) • Max stroke: 50 mm • Max thrust: 500 N | • Repetitive positioning accuracy: ±15 arcsec • Max torque: 50 Nm • Max moment load: 500 Nm | | Typical Applications:  Transport axes, Cartesian systems, pick-and-place motion | Typical Applications:  Precision insertion, dispensing, Z-axis positioning | Typical Applications:  Rotary indexing tables, fixture rotation, cable-through-axis designs | [![Browse Our Linear & Rotary Actuators Lineup](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/2284573/interactive-404112362221.png)](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLJ4ZxuHKWgo0KbdplTANgZNcXESB%2FKAUfUHCuWZnqq3s%2BEPK7I%2F1FTE6hNOvLZVZjmNXM8WVNmlhaXWqiUh6wYtowoDJyLgV%2BvdbTNMKBj2H1SonwSp8cFVWe5F441iAslI3IAwjNU6FdgKxmzxn79AAL5pmSri%2FmJmEzfK9EJUOjQS4MBRCWJhAPyJYXp7LKtbdIkcquo%2FnTP%2BAXTuzxnPZV3PPN53vjpHvWVsTRs%3D&webInteractiveContentId=404112362221&portalId=2284573)   **EZS Series Application Example: Cartesian Pick-and-Place Transfer System** A tray-to-tray transfer system used for handling small electronic components, precision molded parts, or medical-device subassemblies typically requires: ✅ Long horizontal travel ✅ Repeatable positioning ✅ Moderate payload capacity ✅ Compact machine footprint ✅ Integration into multi-axis automation systems   In many cases, the actuator must not only generate motion but also guide and support the load throughout the transfer cycle.   Application Example: XYZ Positioning X- and Y-axis horizontal motion: EZS Series linear slides Z-axis for vertical travel: DR Series compact linear actuator   Why EZS Series Is a Strong Fit The EZS Series is a ball-screw-driven linear slide designed for applications requiring long travel distances and integrated load support. Depending on the model, stroke lengths range from 50 mm to 850 mm, providing flexibility for both compact workstations and larger transfer systems. A key advantage of the EZS platform is its use of THK LM Guide technology. The linear guide structure provides high rigidity and strong resistance to moment loads, making the actuator suitable for carrying offset payloads and handling dynamic motion without sacrificing positioning consistency. For Cartesian XYZ automation systems, the combination of a rigid guide mechanism and a ball-screw drive improves transport performance by minimizing deflection and maintaining accurate load positioning throughout the stroke. This becomes increasingly important as cycle rates increase or payloads become less balanced. The EZS Series can also be integrated into XY and XYZ assemblies. When paired with Oriental Motor's battery-free absolute encoder technology, the system can retain positional information without requiring routine homing after power cycling, which reduces startup time and simplifies machine operation.   [![Learn More About EZS Series Linear Slides](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/2284573/interactive-403792363238.png)](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLJCoKQHNU3qht88TV7tBvGz3IBJnU5NFt7QS%2FNT3D%2Fh5rtEK3tSIkTE9pystwtVcS3XDJcsJ2%2F1PEBP7r7qaU1ycOR9WqtvKREj6gpOYQHX2JOLmoJiZ4AwcN%2FeKWSy%2FWdsdyeRM%2Fn0IgnWfiBmZGTpvXERM5eq16RhNPJN9wROjlcvr1RUR2mZJEARFvEs0D1FzM63IVVAMJEDzgdyXCKLtBwurxM%2ByADmYQQeziC3B8Tjy7qeOwzfju9PFiG9hyUaWluVJqRNZLiknSCXhkjcmlQP5L8%3D&webInteractiveContentId=403792363238&portalId=2284573)   DR/DRS2 Series Application Example: Precision Press-Fit and Z-Axis Assembly Many assembly processes require short-stroke, highly repeatable vertical motion. Examples include: ✅ Connector insertion ✅ Press-fit assembly ✅ Precision component placement ✅ Dispensing operations ✅ Electronic assembly stations   These applications require the actuator to deliver accurate positioning and controlled thrust within a compact footprint.   Application Example: Cartesian XYZ pick-and-place system X- and Y-axis horizontal motion: EZS Series linear slides Z-axis for vertical travel: DRS Series compact linear actuator     Why DR/DRS2 Series Is a Strong Fit The DR Series and DRS2 Series are designed specifically for compact precision linear motion. The actuator integrates the motor and ball screw into a single package, reducing the number of external mechanical components while simplifying installation. Available stroke configurations include 40 mm and 50 mm, making the DRS2 particularly suitable for short-motion applications. Depending on the model selection, thrust ratings can reach up to 500 N. For precision assembly operations, one of the most significant advantages is positioning capability. Certain configurations offer repetitive positioning accuracy as fine as ±0.003 mm and minimum movement increments of 0.001 mm. These characteristics let engineers precisely control insertion depth, dispensing position, and component placement. The integrated mechanical design also helps minimize backlash while providing stable thrust generation. In installation scenarios where space is limited, the compact architecture can significantly reduce overall machine dimensions. Combined with AZ Series absolute positioning technology, the DRS2 Series can eliminate the need for external homing sensors, simplifying wiring and reducing commissioning complexity.   [![Learn More About DR/DRS Series Compact Linear Actuators](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/2284573/interactive-404123129544.png)](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLblaOm0oKaFMn%2FpPPGLTgiD4JoNoZz4qwfyvYICbyY50YKf0BmifQ1OeYUvsuQwS1CKmq4mtMX2V%2BFOC8V5MfxCV7zb%2F6L3ywYfwulqZtR%2BHndgzUE37GNrr%2BXC%2BQmrVaBDJ25DMNJt5Jq8LEhrQ0j%2BV%2BlmvM8NNWHnoq5%2BWnyDOHjwmZLh2DeMBGriQvvlYMnScD6wJB%2FGMcKzK2WLE0OyGlj%2FAO%2BnokwwlLVRFZYq%2FlwvN8WGpDWm%2BeXuBAx50SF&webInteractiveContentId=404123129544&portalId=2284573)   | FYI: Pneumatic Cylinder Comparison | | --- | | Traditionally, many insertion operations relied on pneumatic cylinders. While pneumatic systems remain effective for simple extend-and-retract motion, they typically offer limited flexibility when multiple positions, programmable speeds, or precise positioning control are required. Electric cylinders let engineers program multiple positions, adjust motion profiles on the fly, and improve process consistency.  These advantages become particularly valuable in modern flexible manufacturing environments. |   DGII Series Application Example: Rotary Indexing Fixture with Cable-Through Center Rotary indexing and positioning applications are common throughout manufacturing equipment, including: ✅ Vision inspection stations ✅ Rotary assembly nests ✅ Filling equipment ✅ Robot peripheral axes ✅ Multi-station indexing fixtures   These systems often require precise angular positioning while supporting substantial loads directly on the rotary axis.   Application Example: DGII hollow rotary actuator for vision inspection     Why DGII Series Is a Strong Fit The DGII Series combines a hollow rotary table and closed-loop stepper motor into a single integrated actuator. Unlike conventional rotary solutions that often require external bearings and rotary transmission mechanisms, the DGII Series is designed to support loads directly on its output table. This rotary actuator uses cross-roller bearings to provide high rigidity and stable rotational performance. Depending on frame size, hollow diameters range from 28 mm to 100 mm, enabling cables, pneumatic tubing, or fluid lines to pass directly through the center of the axis. This hollow structure can be particularly beneficial in vision inspection systems and rotary assembly equipment, where complex cable routing can otherwise create design challenges or reduce reliability. The integrated bearings and direct load mounting also simplify machine design. Engineers can mount fixtures or tooling directly to the output table without requiring additional support structures. For applications with thrust forces and off-center loads, the DGIII Series supports axial loads up to 4000 N and a permissible moment load of up to 500 N·m. Like other AZ Series-based products, DGII variants equipped with absolute encoder technology can simplify startup procedures and reduce dependency on conventional homing sequences.   [![Learn More About DGII Series Hollow Rotary Actuators](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/2284573/interactive-403792363243.png)](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLIx7epwZ13cuASDk%2FmEmzBGjSgEny%2BZof8KF4IWl8j%2FitKLY15VRroM2480%2Blf7%2B62jJMzBZWMx%2BkVtqGqHDVu9Mh4h7LQRV2O%2FRIccZAAG7h8f%2BUIqkQC0ZXsfzE2JeZ1ROg%2FgEfWPVSZhdjKWChaRiExNyHb4jW0baX7kVHNK5tS2Z%2BYkn%2FYMYhzJSV9YMWLS8fEMCRBreONaV%2F6ovy5SFdBNm8RwFiAOXZG%2Fw7LGUwqWTZU5KAE3eqE5EUzW8JNBKrYxeTj%2Bvw%3D%3D&webInteractiveContentId=403792363243&portalId=2284573)   | FYI: Traditional Rotary Table Comparison | | --- | | Compared with many belt-driven rotary mechanisms, the DGII architecture offers higher rigidity, reduced mechanical complexity, direct mounting, simplified cable management, and compact overall system design. |   With its cross roller bearings, the DGII is best viewed as a highly rigid rotary positioning solution for indexing and rotational applications.   Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Actuator Successful actuator selection is about more than achieving the required thrust, speed, or torque. Many machine performance issues can be traced back to choosing an actuator that doesn't match the application's mechanical requirements.      ![](https://www.orientalmotor.com/images/linear-actuators/electric-linear-actuators-top-350px.jpg)    Here are some tips for actuator selection: Do you need to push or move a load? Before comparing specifications, define what the axis needs to accomplish.  Linear cylinders push with a piston, while linear slides use a moving carriage and linear guide to move and support a load.  Selecting a linear cylinder for moving the load will still work, but it requires an additional linear guide to support the load during transfer.   How much load do you need to move and how far? Many actuators offer different specifications that you can use to narrow down options, especially stroke and load.  For example, if you need to move a larger load or a long distance, a linear slide is better.  If you need to move something small a shorter distance, a compact linear actuator is better.   Don't skip moment load calculations A common mistake is selecting an actuator based solely on the stroke and load capacity without considering how the load will be supported throughout the travel.  Exceeding the actuator's moment load can reduce positioning performance, increase wear, and shorten service life.  Use a guided actuator to support moment loads. Avoid over-specifying accuracy. Select the positioning performance that the process actually requires.  Precision and accuracy require better components, such as a ground ball screw instead of a rolled ball screw.  Excessive accuracy requirements can increase cost and complexity without improving product quality or throughput.   How long do you need the actuator to last? Each actuator has a reference life specification that estimates the product's service life under average operating conditions.  For a more accurate calculation based on your specific operating conditions, temperature, and/or duty cycle, please get in touch with our technical support engineers. By answering these questions early in the machine design process, engineers can often narrow actuator choices quickly and reduce both integration effort and project delays.   Here are a few product selection examples between the EZS Series, DR/DRS Series, and DGII Series.   EZS Series is well suited for transport axes, gantries, and Cartesian handling systems. | Choose EZS Series When: ☑️ Long linear travel is required. ☑️ The actuator must guide the load. ☑️ Multi-axis Cartesian motion is planned. ☑️ Moment loads must be supported directly by the actuator. ☑️ Transfer accuracy and rigidity are important. | ![Moment load handling capability of the EZS Series linear slides](https://www.orientalmotor.com/images/linear-actuators/linear-slides-ezs-az-high-permissible-moment.jpg) | | --- | --- |   DR/DRS2 Series excels in compact, high-precision linear applications such as insertion, dispensing, and assembly. | Choose DR/DRS2 Series When: ☑️ Motion distance is short. ☑️ High thrust is required in a compact package. ☑️ Fine positioning accuracy is critical. ☑️ Vertical insertion or dispensing is involved. ☑️ Space limitations are a key design concern. | ![Design of a compact linear actuator](https://www.orientalmotor.com/images/linear-actuators/drs-linear-actuator-structure.jpg) | | --- | --- |   DGII Series provides a robust solution for rotary indexing, high-rigidity positioning, and cable-through-axis machine designs. | Choose DGII Series When: ☑️ Rotary indexing is required. ☑️ Large inertial loads need direct mounting. ☑️ Cables, air lines, or fluid tubing must pass through the axis. ☑️ High rigidity and precise angular positioning are necessary. ☑️ Designers want to simplify rotary machine architecture. | ![DGII Series hollow rotary actuator hollow bore diameters](https://www.orientalmotor.com/images/rotary-actuators/lm-dgii-series-hollow-output-simple-wiring-piping-450px.jpg) | | --- | --- |   These practical tips can help automation engineers select the actuator technology that best fits the real-world needs of the machine.  By selecting the right actuator early in the design process, engineers can improve machine performance, simplify integration, and avoid redesigns.   Topics: [Absolute Positioning](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/topic/absolute-positioning), [Alphastep Hybrid Control](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/topic/alphastep-hybrid-control), [Linear Actuators](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/topic/linear-actuators), [VIDEOS](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/topic/videos), [Application Examples](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/topic/application-examples), [Rotary Actuators/Index Tables](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/topic/rotary-actuators-index-tables), [Factory Automation](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/topic/factory-automation) ![Johann Tang](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/8cc777610596a2b2230de2963e906c0b) #### Written by [Johann Tang](https://blog.orientalmotor.com/author/johann-tang) Johann Tang is a Product Specialist at Oriental Motor USA Corp. Before joining the marketing team, he spent 14 years in sales and technical application support, and he also led product training on various types of fractional-horsepower electric motors, gear motors, actuators, drivers, and controllers. If you have any questions, please feel free to use the live chat window, 1-800-GO-VEXTA (1-800-468-3982), or techsupport@orientalmotor.com, to reach our product support team. Sorry, comments have been turned off. 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For over a century we have concentrated on technological advancement and product design improvement. This emphasis is evident in the sophisticated devices that we market today. Oriental Motor's sales and service network is international, with offices throughout North America, Europe and Asia. #### More Links - [\[fa icon="caret-right"\] Home](http://www.orientalmotor.com) - [\[fa icon="caret-right"\] About Us](http://www.orientalmotor.com/company/index.html) - [\[fa icon="caret-right"\] Contact Us](http://www.orientalmotor.com/contact/index.html) #### Contact Us \[fa icon="phone"\]  1-800-GO-VEXTA (468-3982) \[fa icon="envelope"\]  sales@orientalmotor.com \[fa icon="home"\]  570 Alaska Avenue, Torrance CA 90503 \[fa icon="chevron-up"\]Back to top ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Johann Tang", "url" : "https://blog.orientalmotor.com/author/johann-tang" }, "dateModified" : "2026-10-02T00:59:27.884Z", "datePublished" : "2026-10-02T00:59:27.000Z", "headline" : "From Pick-and-Place to Rotary Indexing: How to Choose the Right Actuator for Modern Automation", "image" : [ "https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hubfs/Featured%20image%20for%20EZS%2c%20DR%2c%20and%20DGII%20blog.png" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.orientalmotor.com/from-pick-and-place-to-rotary-indexing-how-to-choose-the-right-actuator-for-modern-automation", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.orientalmotor.com/hubfs/OM-brand-logo-640x83.jpg" }, "name" : "Oriental Motors" } } ```