Ball Screw Shaft

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Ball Screw Shaft

Definition

The ball screw shaft is a critical component in ball screw assemblies, which are widely used in industrial machinery for precise linear positioning and force transmission. It is a hardened and ground cylindrical rod with a helical groove (thread) machined along its length. The shaft serves as the primary load-bearing element that interacts with the ball nut, enabling efficient conversion of rotary motion into linear motion. The shaft is typically made from alloy steel (e.g., SCM420, SCM440) or stainless steel, with a hardness of 58–62 HRC (induction hardened) and a ground surface finish of 0.2–0.4 μm Ra for smooth operation. Standard parameters include nominal diameters from 16 to 80 mm, leads from 5 to 40 mm, accuracy grades from C3 to C7 (per ISO 3408), and shaft lengths from 500 to 6000 mm (custom lengths available). Straightness is specified as 0.05–0.1 mm/m (per ISO 1101), and operating temperature ranges from -20 to 80°C. The shaft material may also be specified as GCr15 (equivalent to 52100 bearing steel) per GB/T 18254. Weight varies from 2 to 120 kg depending on diameter and length. These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application. The shaft is designed to work with a matching ball nut and recirculating balls, which roll along the helical grooves to minimize friction. It is essential to confirm the actual specifications, including accuracy grade, lead, and material, with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement. The shaft is a component, not a standalone product, and its performance depends on proper installation, lubrication, and alignment within the ball screw assembly.

Working Principle

The ball screw shaft operates within a ball screw assembly, where it rotates relative to a stationary or moving ball nut. The nut contains recirculating balls that roll along the matching helical grooves on the shaft. As the shaft rotates, the balls transfer motion to the nut, converting rotary motion into linear motion with high efficiency and minimal friction. The helical groove profile and the precision ground surface ensure smooth engagement and accurate positioning. The shaft's hardness and surface finish contribute to wear resistance and consistent performance over time. The linear travel per revolution is determined by the lead of the shaft. The shaft may be driven by a motor or other rotary actuator, and the nut may be fixed or move along the shaft depending on the application. Proper lubrication and alignment are critical to maintain the recirculating ball path and prevent premature wear.

Common Materials

Alloy Steel (e.g., SCM420, SCM440), Stainless Steel

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Nominal Diameter	16–80 mm	Standard sizes; custom diameters availableISO 3408
Lead	5–40 mm	Determines linear travel per revolutionISO 3408
Accuracy Grade	C3–C7	C3 for high precision, C7 for general useISO 3408
Shaft Length	500–6000 mm	Custom lengths up to 6000 mm
Hardness	58–62 HRC	Induction hardened for wear resistanceISO 683-17
Surface Roughness	0.2–0.4 μm Ra	Ground finish for smooth operationISO 4287
Straightness	0.05–0.1 mm/m	Ensures accurate linear motionISO 1101
Operating Temperature	-20–80 °C	Higher temps may require special lubrication
Shaft Material	GCr15	Equivalent to 52100 bearing steelGB/T 18254
Weight	2–120 kg	Depends on diameter and length

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

Threaded Section Part
The precision-ground helical groove that guides the recirculating balls, defining the screw's lead and accuracy.

Material: Hardened Alloy Steel
Shaft Body / Journal Part
The smooth, unthreaded sections at the ends for mounting bearings and couplings, providing rotational support.

Material: Alloy Steel

Applied To / Applications

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

Linear Guideways & Ball Screws

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Ball Screw Shaft

Manufacturer profiles associated with Ball Screw Shaft.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are available for the ball screw shaft?

The shaft is typically made from alloy steel (e.g., SCM420, SCM440) or stainless steel. The material may also be specified as GCr15 (equivalent to 52100 bearing steel) per GB/T 18254. The choice depends on the application's load, environment, and corrosion resistance requirements.

What accuracy grades are available?

Accuracy grades range from C3 to C7 per ISO 3408. C3 is for high precision applications, while C7 is for general use. The grade affects the positioning accuracy and must be selected based on the required performance.

What is the maximum shaft length?

Standard shaft lengths range from 500 to 6000 mm, with custom lengths available up to 6000 mm. The length affects the straightness and rigidity, so it must be verified for the specific application.

How should I verify the specifications for my application?

Always confirm the model-specific values, including nominal diameter, lead, accuracy grade, material, hardness, and straightness, with the legal manufacturer or supplier. These parameters are critical for proper function and must be validated against your application's requirements.

Data Basis

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Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Axial load capacity: 5 kN to 500 kN depending on diameter and preload
other spec:	Maximum linear speed: 3 m/s, Accuracy grade: C3 to C7 per ISO 3408
temperature:	-20°C to 120°C (standard), up to 200°C with special materials

Product Specifications

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