The SMC MXJ6-10C is a compact precision air slide table designed for short-stroke, high-accuracy linear motion in automation equipment. It belongs to SMC’s MXJ series, which integrates the cylinder and guide mechanism into one body to improve rigidity, reduce installation space, and simplify alignment compared with a standard cylinder plus external guide arrangement. SMC classifies MXJ as an air slide table / guided cylinder platform for compact precision transfer tasks.
For this specific model code:
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MXJ = MXJ air slide table series
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6 = 6 mm bore class (SMC catalog bore size designation)
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10 = 10 mm stroke
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C = metal stopper on both ends (adjuster option in SMC “How to Order”)
That combination makes the MXJ6-10C suitable for applications where the movement is short but repeatability, compactness, and guided stability matter more than long travel.
Key Specifications
| Item | Specification / Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | SMC |
| Model | MXJ6-10C |
| Series | MXJ Series (Air Slide Table / Guided Air Cylinder) |
| Product Type | Precision air slide table |
| Bore Size | 6 mm class |
| Stroke | 10 mm |
| Action | Double acting |
| Fluid | Compressed air |
| Piping Port Size | M3 × 0.5 |
| Operating Pressure | 0.15 to 0.7 MPa |
| Proof Pressure | 1.05 MPa |
| Ambient / Fluid Temperature | -10 to 60°C |
| Lubrication | Non-lube |
| Adjuster Option | Metal stopper on both ends (“C”) |
| Max. Allowable Load Mass (MXJ6 reference) | 0.15 kg (metal stopper), 0.2 kg (rubber bumper reference) |
| Table Length L (MXJ6-10 reference) | 42.5 mm |
| Product Net Weight | 105 g |
Product Structure and Engineering Value
The MXJ series is designed as an integrated slide table rather than a general-purpose rod cylinder. This construction is important in precision automation because it reduces the number of mounting interfaces and mechanical tolerances that can accumulate error. In practical terms, the MXJ6-10C provides:
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Better guided motion in a smaller footprint
The guide and actuator are packaged together, which helps maintain traveling parallelism and positional consistency in compact assemblies. This is particularly useful in semiconductor-support equipment, electronics assembly, miniature fixture systems, and light-duty parts handling. -
Short stroke optimization
A 10 mm stroke is ideal for “micro-transfer” functions such as stop-and-release, indexing assist, separation, ejecting, clamping support, or tiny slide positioning steps. In many machines, these short movements happen repeatedly at high cycle counts, so a rigid guided unit is preferable to improvised mechanisms. -
Mechanical stopping with dual-end adjuster configuration
The “C” option in the model code indicates metal stopper on both ends, which is a meaningful configuration for users who need controlled stroke-end behavior and fine adjustment capability in both extension and retraction directions. This is helpful when machine timing, part contact position, or sensor trigger repeatability needs to be tuned.
Typical Applications
The SMC MXJ6-10C is commonly selected for compact automation modules where installation space is limited and repeatability matters. Typical uses include:
1) Small-part transfer and alignment
In automated assembly stations, the MXJ6-10C can move a component into a precise position before inspection, insertion, or fastening. Because the stroke is short, cycle time can be optimized while maintaining stable motion.
2) Stopper mechanisms in feeding systems
For parts feeders, tray systems, or indexing plates, a guided air slide is often used as a stopper or pusher. The integrated structure reduces side play and improves consistency compared with a simple rod cylinder.
3) Sensor-triggered shuttle actions
In PLC-controlled equipment, a short guided movement may be used to trigger a part-present check, engage a mechanical interlock, or shift a small payload. The MXJ platform supports auto switch configurations in the series, which helps with end-position feedback in sequence control. SMC’s MXJ catalog also notes model ordering and switch compatibility structure in the platform.
4) Compact tooling actuation
Industrial fixtures often require a short, accurate linear movement to present or retract tooling elements. The MXJ6-10C is a practical option when a full linear guide module would be too large or too expensive.
Performance and Selection Considerations
Load and moment capacity
For the MXJ6 size class, SMC’s catalog provides a maximum allowable load mass reference of 0.15 kg (metal stopper) and 0.2 kg (rubber bumper) under the specified conditions. Since the MXJ6-10C is a metal stopper variant, the metal-stopper load reference is the relevant baseline for initial sizing. Actual allowable load depends on mounting orientation, speed, moment arm, and impact conditions, so final design should use the catalog moment/load graphs and correction values.
Pneumatic requirements
The MXJ6 series uses standard compressed air and an M3 × 0.5 port, with a general operating pressure range of 0.15 to 0.7 MPa. For stable repeatability and service life, filtered and dry air is recommended. SMC also specifies non-lube operation for the series, which simplifies maintenance in most factory air systems.
Temperature environment
The specified ambient/fluid temperature range of -10 to 60°C makes the MXJ6-10C suitable for typical indoor industrial environments. If the application is near heat sources, washdown zones, or contamination-heavy processes, additional protection or a different actuator family may be more appropriate.
Installation Notes
To get reliable performance from the MXJ6-10C, the following installation practices are recommended:
| Installation Topic | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Mounting surface | Use a flat, rigid base to avoid body distortion and loss of guide accuracy |
| Load position | Keep the payload center of gravity close to the guide centerline |
| Impact control | Avoid excessive collision speed at stroke end; tune air flow with speed controllers |
| Tubing routing | Prevent tubing force from pulling the slide body sideways |
| Fasteners | Use correct bolt length; avoid interference with internal body areas |
| Magnetic environment | Avoid attaching magnets near the body/table because SMC notes possible auto switch malfunction risk due to magnetization |
SMC’s MXJ catalog specifically includes precautions about magnetic influence and bolt interference in the dimensions/notes sections, which are worth checking during machine design and maintenance.
Why MXJ6-10C Is a Good Choice
The SMC MXJ6-10C is a strong choice when you need a compact, guided, pneumatic linear actuator for short travel. Its main advantages are:
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Compact size for dense machine layouts
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Integrated guided structure for better rigidity and repeatability
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Short 10 mm stroke optimized for fast micro-motions
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Dual-end metal stopper configuration for controlled mechanical adjustment
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Low weight (~105 g) for lightweight tooling and small moving assemblies
For machine builders, this model is especially practical in equipment where precision motion is needed but a servo axis would be excessive in cost, size, or complexity.
SEO-Oriented Product Summary
SMC MXJ6-10C is a compact precision air slide table with a 6 mm bore and 10 mm stroke, designed for short-stroke guided linear motion in industrial automation systems. As part of the SMC MXJ series, it combines cylinder actuation and guide function in one body for improved rigidity, accurate movement, and space-saving installation. The “C” model code indicates a metal stopper on both ends, making it suitable for adjustable stroke-end control in small transfer, stopper, and alignment mechanisms.
