Electric cylinders are gaining a foothold in the industry

A year ago, Hiwin GmbH launched its electric cylinder - with the clear goal of setting new standards in an established market segment. Today, it is clear that, according to the manufacturer, this approach is paying off. The electric cylinder has proven itself wherever precision, flexibility, and a holistic systems approach are required - and has also proven its worth time and again in practical applications.

Electric cylinders are no longer a niche product. Advantages such as energy efficiency, precision, flexibility, cleanliness, and easy integration make them suitable for use in numerous standard applications. Hiwin, however, is deliberately taking it a step further: The modular product family combines standardization with a high degree of customization, enabling tailor-made “off-the-shelf” solutions. “We knew that comparable products already existed,” says Ilja Dreher, team leader for electric cylinder development at Hiwin. “Our goal was therefore maximum differentiation - an electric cylinder that feels familiar but breaks new ground in the crucial details.”

These differences are evident in the consistently modular design, high configurability, and expanded integration options - such as additional T-slots and flexible screw-connection and centering options. At the same time, the core of the system is based on Hiwin’s long-standing expertise in ball screws. High-quality spindle materials and optimized ball screw nuts significantly increase load capacity and running performance. This results in clear advantages for users: low-vibration motion, reduced noise, higher speeds, and an overall longer service life. These characteristics directly address the key requirements of modern automation solutions—especially where precision and process reliability are critical.

The electric cylinder has already established itself in practical applications: It is used in handling and positioning applications, in assembly processes, and in testing systems. Its modular design allows for quick adaptation to different requirements without the need for complex custom designs.

However, Hiwin states that added value is created not only in the product itself but in the entire system: From digital design through configuration to fast delivery, the company offers a seamless, efficient process. Upon request, customers receive a fully coordinated package consisting of electric cylinders, accessories, motors, and control technology—all from a single source. “We don’t just view the finished product as ‘smart,’ but the entire journey leading up to it,” says Dreher. At the same time, development is ongoing: Hiwin is continuously working to expand the product family as well as to add new features and options.

“Our conclusion after one year: The Hiwin electric cylinder represents the shift from a standalone product to an integrated system solution - powerful, flexible, and field-proven. Companies looking to make their applications more efficient, precise, and future-proof should take a closer look,” concludes Dreher. Another notable achievement is that the Hiwin electric cylinder—EA-S series - was awarded a FOCUS Special Mention at the internationally competitive Baden-Württemberg FOCUS OPEN 2026 design award. With this award, the expert jury recognizes the high quality as well as the particularly innovative and well-thought-out design of the solution in an international competitive environment. The official announcement by the Design Center Baden-Württemberg and the award ceremony will take place in November 2026.