Ball Screw / Lead Screw – Precision Linear Motion Component

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Ball Screw/Lead Screw

Definition

The ball screw/lead screw is a precision mechanical component used to convert rotary motion into linear motion. In a servo-driven alignment pusher, it serves as the critical transmission element, translating the rotational movement of the servo motor into precise linear displacement of the pusher mechanism. This enables accurate positioning and force application during alignment tasks. The component consists of a threaded shaft (screw) and a matching nut. In ball screws, recirculating ball bearings roll between the screw and nut threads, minimizing friction and achieving high efficiency (typically 90–98%). In lead screws, the nut slides directly on the screw threads, resulting in lower efficiency but simpler construction. The rotation of the screw causes the nut (or the screw, depending on the design) to move linearly along the axis. Key parameters include nominal diameter (16–80 mm), lead (5–40 mm), accuracy grade (C3–C7 per ISO 3408-3), dynamic load rating (5–120 kN), static load rating (10–250 kN), maximum travel speed (60–120 m/min), operating temperature (-20 to 80°C), backlash (0.01–0.05 mm), screw length (200–6000 mm), shaft diameter (16–80 mm), and weight (1–150 kg). Materials on file are alloy steel and stainless steel. These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application with the legal manufacturer or supplier. The component is designed and tested according to ISO 3408 standards, but compliance must be confirmed through documentation. When selecting a ball screw/lead screw, consider load capacity, speed requirements, accuracy needs, and environmental conditions. Regular maintenance includes lubrication and inspection for wear or backlash increase. Failure signs include unusual noise, vibration, or loss of positioning accuracy. Always consult the manufacturer for application-specific guidance.

Working Principle

A threaded shaft (screw) rotates within a matching nut. For ball screws, recirculating ball bearings roll between the screw and nut threads, minimizing friction. For lead screws, the nut slides directly on the screw threads. This rotation causes the nut (or the screw, depending on design) to move linearly along the axis.

Common Materials

Alloy Steel, Stainless 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 linear speed per revolution.ISO 3408
Accuracy Grade	C3–C7	C3 for high precision, C7 for general use.ISO 3408-3
Dynamic Load Rating	5–120 kN	Basis for fatigue life calculation.ISO 3408-5
Static Load Rating	10–250 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	Lubricant and material limits.
Efficiency	90–98 %	Ball screw high, lead screw lower.
Backlash	0.01–0.05 mm	Critical for positioning accuracy.ISO 3408-3
Screw Length	200–6000 mm	Custom lengths available.
Shaft Diameter	16–80 mm	Matches nominal diameter.
Weight	1–150 kg	Depends on length and diameter.

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
The threaded rotating element that provides the helical raceway.

Material: Alloy Steel
Nut
The component that travels along the screw shaft, converting rotation into linear motion. Contains ball bearings (for ball screws) or internal threads (for lead screws).

Material: Alloy Steel
Ball Bearings (Ball Screw only) Part
Recirculating balls that roll between the screw and nut threads to reduce friction and wear.

Material: Chrome Steel
Wipers/Seals Part
Protect the internal raceway from contamination by dust and debris.

Material: Rubber or Polyurethane

Applied To / Applications

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

Servo-Driven Alignment Pusher

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Ball Screw/Lead Screw

Manufacturer profiles associated with Ball Screw/Lead Screw.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review · Page last updated 6 September 2026

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

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Manufacturing capability

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a ball screw and a lead screw?

A ball screw uses recirculating ball bearings between the screw and nut, reducing friction and achieving higher efficiency (90–98%). A lead screw has direct sliding contact between the nut and threads, resulting in lower efficiency but simpler and often more cost-effective design.

What accuracy grades are available?

Accuracy grades range from C3 to C7 per ISO 3408-3. C3 offers higher precision, suitable for applications requiring tight positioning, while C7 is for general use. The specific grade must be selected based on the application's accuracy requirements.

How do I determine the correct size for my application?

Key parameters include nominal diameter, lead, dynamic and static load ratings, and maximum travel speed. These must be matched to your load, speed, and accuracy needs. Always verify with the manufacturer or supplier using your application data.

What maintenance is required?

Regular lubrication is essential to reduce wear and maintain efficiency. Periodically check for backlash increase, unusual noise, or vibration, which may indicate wear or misalignment. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and guidelines.

Data Basis

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

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Axial load capacity: 1 kN to 500 kN depending on diameter and lead
other spec:	Maximum linear speed: 1-3 m/s, positioning accuracy: ±5-50 μm/300mm, repeatability: ±1-10 μm
temperature:	-40°C to 120°C (standard), up to 200°C with special materials/lubrication

Ball Screw/Lead Screw

Product Specifications

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards