Band Alignment and Capstan Tension Bolt Adjustment

Proper alignment of the band is essential to smooth, accurate positioning of the stages. When a band is not aligned or tensioned correctly the axis can stall.

Procedure

Ensure the capstan tension bolt is fully released before proceeding.

Open

1. Loosen the tension bolts on the end/ends of the band so the band moves freely.

Open

2. Move the stage to the end of travel, near the hard stop.

3. Visually locate the band so that it is vertically centered on the capstan shaft.

4. Visually locate the band horizontally so that it is just touching the capstan shaft.

5. Visually align the band parallel to the capstan drive shaft.

6. Tighten the tension bolt enough to hold the band in place.

7. Move the stage to the opposite end of travel and repeat the above procedure.

8. Torque the tension bolt/bolts to 18 Nm.

It may be necessary to repeat each adjustment step several times due to the movement of the band when tightened.

Capstan
The capstan drive holds the motor and drive assembly. The capstan drive must be set up correctly so the proper amount of friction is applied to the band.

If you have a force gauge, please follow the instructions here: Band Alignment Excel 51X - 2500 and Tightening the Idler Tension Bolt

Otherwise proceed with the following procedure:

Ensure the band is correctly aligned before proceeding.

1. Loosen the tension bolt on the capstan drive.

2. Finger tighten the tension bolt.

3. Tighten the tension bolt an additional 1⁄2 – 3⁄4 turn.

4. Check sync error using Alpha Tune Test