INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Shaft Body / Journal

The shaft body/journal is the cylindrical load-bearing section of a ball screw shaft that rotates within bearings to transmit motion and force.

Component Specifications

Definition
The shaft body, also known as the journal, is the central cylindrical section of a ball screw shaft designed to interface with support bearings. This precision-ground component provides the rotational axis for the screw, maintains alignment under axial and radial loads, and ensures smooth motion transmission by minimizing deflection and vibration. Its dimensional accuracy and surface finish directly impact the ball screw's positioning precision, load capacity, and service life.
Working Principle
The shaft body rotates within precision bearings (typically angular contact or deep groove ball bearings) to convert rotary motion into linear motion via the ball nut. It maintains geometric stability under combined loads (axial, radial, and moment) while providing a low-friction surface for bearing contact. Proper preload and lubrication at the journal interfaces minimize wear and thermal expansion effects.
Materials
High-carbon chromium bearing steel (e.g., SUJ2, AISI 52100), case-hardened steels (e.g., SCr420, 8620), or stainless steels (e.g., SUS440C) with hardness typically 58-62 HRC. Surface treatments may include black oxide coating or phosphate coating for corrosion resistance.
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Hardness58-62 HRC
Roundness≤ 0.005 mm
Length Range100-6000 mm
Straightness≤ 0.01 mm/m
Surface RoughnessRa 0.4 μm or better
Diameter Toleranceh5 or h6 (ISO)

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards
ISO 3408, DIN 69051, JIS B 1192

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Brinelling from shock loads
  • Fretting corrosion at bearing interfaces
  • Thermal expansion causing binding
  • Surface degradation from improper lubrication
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Insufficient lubrication or contamination
Failure: Accelerated wear and scoring on journal surface
Mitigation: Implement automatic lubrication systems with filtration; use sealed bearing units
Trigger: Misalignment during installation
Failure: Premature bearing failure and shaft deflection
Mitigation: Use alignment fixtures and dial indicators during assembly; specify proper mounting tolerances
Trigger: Excessive preload or overload
Failure: Permanent deformation (Brinelling) of journal surface
Mitigation: Calculate and verify load ratings; install overload protection devices

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Geometric tolerances per ISO 1101:2017; diameter tolerances per ISO 286-1:2010
Test Method
CMM measurement per ISO 10360-2; surface roughness testing per ISO 4287; hardness testing per ISO 6508-1

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Shaft Body / Journal

Manufacturer profiles associated with Shaft Body / Journal.

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Precision component supporting rotating shafts in vibration motors to reduce friction and maintain alignment.
Seal Groove
Precision-machined groove in aluminum bearing housings designed to accommodate sealing elements for fluid containment and contamination prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between shaft body and journal in ball screw terminology?

In ball screw context, 'shaft body' refers to the entire cylindrical section, while 'journal' specifically denotes the bearing contact surfaces. However, these terms are often used interchangeably for the load-bearing portion.

How does journal diameter tolerance affect ball screw performance?

Tighter diameter tolerances (e.g., h5 vs. h6) reduce bearing clearance, improving rigidity and positioning accuracy but requiring more precise mounting. Looser tolerances accommodate thermal expansion but may increase vibration.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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