Ball Screw and Linear Guide Components

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Ball Screw or Linear Guide

Definition

Ball screws and linear guides are precision mechanical components used in machinery and equipment manufacturing to enable accurate linear positioning and motion control. Ball screws convert rotational motion from a motor into linear motion using a screw shaft and nut with recirculating ball bearings, achieving high efficiency and precise positioning. Linear guides provide smooth, low-friction linear motion along a fixed path using rolling elements between a rail and a carriage block, offering high rigidity and load capacity. Both components are critical in automated machinery, CNC machines, and industrial equipment where repeatable movement is essential.

Typical specifications for these components include nominal diameters from 16 to 80 mm, leads from 5 to 40 mm, and accuracy grades from C3 to C7 per ISO 3408. Dynamic load ratings range from 10 to 120 kN, and static load ratings from 20 to 250 kN, per ISO 3408-5. Maximum travel speeds are typically 60 to 120 m/min, with operating temperatures from -20 to 80 °C. Lubrication can be grease or oil, and sealing protection ranges from IP54 to IP65 per IEC 60529. Common shaft materials include GCr15 or 42CrMo4, and nut materials include GCr15 or 20CrMnTi, with weight ranging from 1 to 50 kg/m.

When selecting these components, verify model-specific values such as load ratings, accuracy, and environmental suitability with the manufacturer. Standards like ISO 3408 and IEC 60529 serve as references for procurement and verification, not as proof of compliance. Always confirm that the chosen component meets the application's requirements for load, speed, and precision.

Working Principle

Ball screws operate by converting rotational motion from a motor into linear motion through a screw shaft and nut with recirculating ball bearings. The balls roll between the shaft and nut, reducing friction and enabling high efficiency. Linear guides use rolling elements (balls or rollers) between a rail and a carriage block to enable smooth linear movement with minimal friction and high rigidity. The rolling elements recirculate within the carriage, allowing for continuous motion along the rail.

Common Materials

Carbon steel, Stainless steel, Alloy steel

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Nominal Diameter	16–80 mm	Determines load capacity and stiffness.ISO 3408
Lead	5–40 mm	Affects speed and resolution.ISO 3408
Accuracy Grade	C3–C7	C3 for high precision, C7 for general use.ISO 3408-3
Dynamic Load Rating	10–120 kN	Higher values for longer life.ISO 3408-5
Static Load Rating	20–250 kN	Maximum load without permanent deformation.ISO 3408-5
Maximum Travel Speed	60–120 m/min	Limited by critical speed and DN value.
Operating Temperature	-20–80 °C	Outside range may affect lubrication and materials.
Lubrication Type	Grease or oil	Grease for simplicity, oil for high speed.
Sealing Protection	IP54–IP65	Higher IP for dusty or wet environments.IEC 60529
Shaft Material	GCr15 or 42CrMo4	Hardened and ground for durability.GB/T 18254, EN 10083
Nut Material	GCr15 or 20CrMnTi	Carburized for wear resistance.GB/T 18254, GB/T 3077
Weight	1–50 kg/m	Affects inertia and system dynamics.

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
Main rotating component that converts torque to linear force

Material: Hardened steel
Ball nut
Contains recirculating balls and moves along screw shaft

Material: Steel or bronze
Rail Part
Fixed track providing linear guidance path

Material: Hardened steel
Carriage block
Moving component that travels along the rail

Material: Steel with polymer seals
Recirculating balls/rollers Part
Reduce friction between moving components

Material: Chrome steel or ceramic

Applied To / Applications

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

Controller & Drive System

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Ball Screw or Linear Guide

Manufacturer profiles associated with Ball Screw or Linear Guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a ball screw and a linear guide?

A ball screw converts rotary motion into linear motion, while a linear guide provides linear guidance with low friction. They are often used together in motion systems.

How do I select the right accuracy grade?

Accuracy grades range from C3 (high precision) to C7 (general use). Choose based on the required positioning accuracy of your application; verify with the manufacturer.

What maintenance is required?

Regular lubrication is necessary, either grease or oil depending on speed and load. Check sealing protection (IP54–IP65) for dusty or wet environments. Monitor for increased noise or play.

What are typical failure modes?

Common failures include loss of lubrication, contamination, overloading, and wear. Exceeding load ratings or operating outside temperature limits can cause premature failure.

Data Basis

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

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Dynamic load capacity: 5-500 kN depending on size and type, static load capacity: 7-700 kN
other spec:	Maximum speed: 0.5-5 m/s, accuracy grade: C0-C10 (2-50 μm/300mm), preload options: light/medium/heavy
temperature:	-20°C to 120°C (standard), up to 200°C with special materials/lubrication

Ball Screw or Linear Guide

Product Specifications

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards