Editorial Technical Reference

Ball Screw

This page explains how Ball Screw is classified within Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A precision mechanical component that converts rotary motion into linear motion with minimal friction using recirculating ball bearings.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Ball Screw

Definition
A ball screw is a precision mechanical component used to convert rotary motion into linear motion with high efficiency and low friction. It consists of a threaded shaft and a ball nut, with recirculating ball bearings that roll between the threads, minimizing sliding friction and backlash. This component is critical in the Axis Drive System (X/Z) of CNC machines, industrial automation equipment, and precision machinery, where it provides high-precision linear positioning and smooth motion transmission. By efficiently converting rotational torque from servo motors into accurate linear movement along the X and Z axes, the ball screw enables precise control of tool or workpiece position, contributing to machining accuracy and repeatability.

Ball screws are manufactured from materials such as bearing steel, alloy steel, or stainless steel, selected based on load, environmental, and corrosion requirements. Key parameters include nominal diameter (16–80 mm), lead (5–40 mm), accuracy grade (C3–C7 per ISO 3408), dynamic load rating (10–120 kN), static load rating (20–250 kN), maximum rotational speed (3000–6000 rpm), operating temperature (-20 to 80 °C), shaft length (200–6000 mm), screw weight (2–150 kg), and lubrication type (grease or oil). These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application.

Standards such as ISO 3408 provide a basis for dimensional and accuracy specifications, but they do not guarantee compliance of any particular product. When selecting a ball screw, consider load capacity, required precision, speed, and environmental conditions. Verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier. Regular maintenance, including proper lubrication and inspection for wear, is essential to ensure long service life and reliable operation. Failure to maintain correct lubrication or operating within limits can lead to premature wear, loss of accuracy, or mechanical failure.
Working Principle
The ball screw operates on the principle of rolling contact. When the screw shaft rotates, the ball nut moves linearly along the shaft. Ball bearings are recirculated through internal raceways in the nut, creating a rolling contact mechanism that minimizes friction and backlash. This design provides high efficiency and positioning accuracy, as the rolling elements reduce sliding resistance compared to traditional lead screws. The recirculation system ensures continuous operation, and the preload can be adjusted to eliminate backlash for precise positioning.
Common Materials
Bearing steel, Alloy steel, Stainless steel
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Nominal Diameter16–80 mmDetermines load capacity and stiffness.ISO 3408
Lead5–40 mmAffects linear speed and resolution.ISO 3408
Accuracy GradeC3–C7C3 for high precision, C7 for general use.ISO 3408
Dynamic Load Rating10–120 kNBasis for fatigue life calculation.ISO 3408
Static Load Rating20–250 kNMaximum load without permanent deformation.ISO 3408
Maximum Rotational Speed3000–6000 rpmLimited by critical speed and DN value.
Operating Temperature-20–80 °CLubricant and material limits.
Shaft Length200–6000 mmCustom lengths available.
Screw Weight2–150 kgDepends on diameter and length.
Lubrication TypeGrease/OilGrease for low maintenance, oil for high speed.

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

Components / BOM
  • Screw shaft Part
    Rotating component with precision-ground helical raceway that guides ball bearings
    Material: Bearing steel
  • Ball nut
    Moving component containing recirculating ball bearings that engage with screw shaft raceway
    Material: Alloy steel
  • Ball bearings Part
    Precision balls that roll between screw shaft and nut to minimize friction
    Material: Chrome steel
  • Return system
    Internal or external mechanism that recirculates ball bearings through the nut
    Material: Steel or plastic
  • Seals Part
    Protect internal components from contamination and retain lubrication
    Material: Rubber or synthetic polymer

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Axial load capacity: 1-500 kN depending on diameter and preload
other spec: Maximum linear speed: 1-3 m/s, Accuracy grades: C0-C10 (2-52 μm/300mm travel), Life expectancy: 1-10 million cycles based on load
temperature: -20°C to +80°C (standard), up to +120°C with special seals/lubrication
Media Compatibility
✓ Machine tool applications (CNC, lathes) ✓ Precision positioning systems ✓ Automation/robotics equipment
Unsuitable: High particulate/dust environments without protective covers
Sizing Data Required
  • Required axial load capacity (N)
  • Maximum travel length (mm)
  • Required positioning accuracy (μm/300mm)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Backlash and positioning inaccuracy
Cause: Wear of ball tracks and balls due to insufficient lubrication, contamination ingress, or excessive preload leading to loss of precision
Ball recirculation failure
Cause: Contamination (dust, chips, debris) blocking return tubes or damage to recirculation components causing jamming or excessive noise
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible grinding, clicking, or rumbling noises during operation
  • Visible metal flakes or discolored grease around screw/nut housing
Engineering Tips
  • Implement strict contamination control with proper seals/wipers and maintain clean lubrication system with manufacturer-specified grease
  • Monitor and adjust preload periodically, ensure proper alignment during installation, and avoid exceeding dynamic/static load ratings

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 3408-1:2006 (Ball screws - Part 1: Vocabulary and designation) ANSI/ASME B5.48-1977 (Ball Screws) DIN 69051-1:2014 (Ball screw drives - Part 1: General specifications, acceptance conditions)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Lead accuracy: ±0.005 mm per 300 mm travel
  • Screw shaft straightness: ≤0.02 mm/m
Quality Inspection
  • Lead accuracy measurement with laser interferometer
  • Ball screw assembly backlash testing

Manufacturers of Ball Screw

9 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Changzhou Jkongmotor Co., Ltd.
Changzhou, Jiangsu, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
FUYU Technology
Sichuan, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Hangzhou Chinabase Machinery Co., Ltd.
Hangzhou, Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Jiangsu Right Heavy Machinery Co.,Ltd.
Jiangsu, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
NUODUN Linear
Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Shanghai Metal Corporation
Shanghai, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Suzhou JiuJun Intelligent Equipment Co., Ltd.
Shanghai, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Zhejiang Guangjin Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.
Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Zhejiang Waxing Electromechanical Co., Ltd.
Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

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.

Supply Chain Compatible Machinery & Devices

Automated Powder Coating System

Integrated industrial system for applying dry powder coatings to metal substrates.

Explore Specs →
Centrifugal Pump Impeller

The centrifugal pump impeller is a critical rotating component that converts mechanical energy from the motor into kinetic energy in fluid systems.

Explore Specs →
High-Precision CNC Laser Cutting Machine

Computer-controlled industrial machine using focused laser beams to cut sheet metal with micron-level accuracy.

Explore Specs →
Industrial-Grade Hydraulic Cylinder Piston Rod

This industrial-grade piston rod is a precision-ground cylindrical component designed for use in hydraulic cylinders.

Explore Specs →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of a ball screw?

A ball screw converts rotary motion into linear motion with high efficiency and low friction, using recirculating ball bearings. It is used in CNC machines and automation equipment for precise positioning.

What materials are ball screws made of?

Common materials include bearing steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel. The choice depends on load requirements, environmental conditions, and corrosion resistance needs.

What accuracy grades are available?

Accuracy grades range from C3 (high precision) to C7 (general use), as per ISO 3408. The required grade depends on the application's positioning accuracy demands.

How should I verify specifications for a specific ball screw?

Always confirm model-specific values such as diameter, lead, load ratings, and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier, as the listed ranges are reference values only.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

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.
Buyer enquiry

Request manufacturing insight for Ball Screw

Ask for use case, specification boundaries, supplier type, and RFQ preparation information for this product.

Where it goes
Straight to the CNFX editorial desk, and to the manufacturer if this product is linked to a claimed profile. Nothing is broadcast to a supplier list.
Your details stay here
We do not sell or rent enquiry data, and we do not add you to a mailing list. Used only to answer this request.
No commission, no middleman
CNFX is a directory. We take no cut of any order and never negotiate on a supplier's behalf.
What we don't claim
A listing is not an endorsement. Qualify every supplier and verify every figure yourself before ordering.

Your business information is used only to process this request.

Thank you! Your message has been sent. We'll respond within 1–3 business days.
Sorry, we couldn't send your message. Please try again, or email us at contact@cnfx.com.

Need to Manufacture Ball Screw?

Compare manufacturer profiles with relevant product and process capability.

Previous Product
Axis Drive System (X/Z)
Next Product
Ball Screw / Lead Screw
Get QuotesChat