FORTiS™ enclosed optical encoders for machine tools
Position encoders for use in the harshest environments
Featuring Renishaw's industry-proven RESOLUTE absolute encoder technology within an exceptionally robust enclosed design, FORTiS linear encoders deliver high-performance measurement in the harshest of environments, offering significant benefits over conventional systems:
- Non-contact design - no mechanical wear and greater longevity.
- Reduced hysteresis - smoother feedback and improved dynamic performance.
- Breakthrough in readhead design - tuned mass dampers for class-leading vibration resistance, up to 30 g.
- Superior sealing to IP64 - greater resistance to contamination by fluids and solid debris.
- Patented set-up LEDs - integral LED signal strength indicator for simple and quick installation and set-up.
- Reduced air leakage leading to lower purge air consumption.
Two different extrusion sizes are available to suit space requirements: the FORTiS-S™ standard-width (37 mm), and the FORTiS-N™ narrow-width (18 mm). FORTiS linear encoders are also designed as direct replacements for conventional linear glass scales. They offer full compatibility in fit, form, and function to enable quick and easy installation on existing machine setups. A Functional Safety (FS) variant is available for both sizes.
Watch our introduction to FORTiS enclosed encoders
FORTiS-S standard size (37 mm)
The FORTiS-S linear encoder is the standard-sized encoder, available with measuring lengths from 140 mm to 4240 mm. It is installed directly to a machined surface via flexure holes in the extrusion's body.
FORTiS-N narrow size (18 mm)
The FORTiS-N encoder, with measuring lengths from 70 mm to 2040 mm, features a narrower cross-section extrusion and a more compact readhead for confined spaces. This model can be mounted directly to a machined surface or a mounting spar for greater rigidity.
Downloads: datasheets and technical documents
Further information about the technical specifications of the FORTiS encoder series, such as datasheets and installation guides, are available from our technical downloads section.
FORTiS encoders brochure
Find out more about Renishaw's range of enclosed encoder systems.
To find the most suitable position encoder for your requirements, please download the following brochure.
Technical specifications
| Features | Specifications |
| Serial interfaces |
|
| Extrusion profile width | FORTiS-S: 37 mm FORTiS-N: 18 mm |
| Measuring lengths | FORTiS-S: 140 mm to 4240 mm FORTiS-N: 70 mm to 2040 mm |
| Resolutions | 0.5 nm, 1 nm, 1.25 nm, 10 nm, 12.5 nm, 25 nm, 50 nm |
| Maximum speed | 4 m/s |
| Accuracy grade at 20 °C | Standard: ±5 µm, High: ±3 µm |
| Environment protection | IP53 when installed correctly, IP64 with air purge |
| Other variants | Functional Safety (FS), certified to the standards of ISO 13849:2015 PLd, IEC 61508:2010 SIL2, IEC 61800-5-2:2016 SIL2 |
| Compatible with | Advanced Diagnostic Tool ADTa-100 |
The FORTiS encoder series is compatible with a wide range of industry-standard controllers, including Beckhoff, Bosch, FANUC, Mitsubishi, Num, Omron, Panasonic, Siemens, Yaskawa and more. FORTiS linear encoders offer compatible resolution options and, in many cases, plug-and-play parameter compatibility too.
Renishaw makes a range of readhead cables and extension cables. Refer to the FORTiS cable data sheet for more information.
Discover how FORTiS encoders solve real manufacturing challenges
Solving mechanical vibration problems
Renishaw's FORTIS encoder series uses tuned mass dampers to greatly improve positional stability and vibration resistance, minimizing measurement errors and emergency stops even under severe vibration conditions.
Easy installation that is 'right first time'
FORTIS linear encoders are designed for quick, technician-free installation, using the ultra-fast installation technique. The set-up LED instantly verifies optimization, and the optional ADTa-100 diagnostic tool provides real-time diagnostic data for further assistance.
Reduce air purge by up to 91% on machines
FORTiS absolute enclosed encoders, using DuraSeal lip seals, enable a low flow air purge, reducing compressed air consumption and CO2e emissions by up to 91% compared to alternatives.
Mitigate the effect of heat build-up in machine tools
FORTiS linear encoders enable the creation of fully-closed servo loops, directly mitigating ballscrew thermal expansion, maintaining high CNC accuracy even after extended operation, and outperforming semi-closed loop systems.
How do we ensure encoder reliability?
Renishaw's expertise led to our rigorous FORTiS encoder testing programme for reliability in harsh machine tool environments, which includes, amongst others, tests for:
- Vibration
- Seal wear
- Ingress Protection (IP)
- Long-term operation in a machining chamber
- Salt spray (fog)
- Chemical resistance
- Drop and shock
We have decided to use the FORTiS-N system on our ProSys ADV+ machines because it meets our high accuracy requirements. In addition, the FORTiS encoder integrated setup LED is an innovative feature that adds real value in terms of time saved during machine assembly.
Anderson Europe GmbH, Germany
Find out the technical specifications for our optical encoder series, their options and variants, via our technical documents downloads. Our compliance certificates will give you an additional guarantee of Renishaw's commitment to quality.
Discover which industries use optical encoders and how Renishaw's encoder technology and extensive expertise benefit manufacturers globally. See real-life examples of how customers have gained from Renishaw encoder systems.
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