Editorial Technical Reference

Ball Screws/Linear Motors

This page explains how Ball Screws/Linear Motors 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

Precision linear motion components that convert rotational motion to linear motion or directly produce linear force for positioning systems.

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

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Ball Screws/Linear Motors

Definition
Ball screws and linear motors are critical actuation components used within multi-axis positioning stages to provide precise linear movement. Ball screws employ recirculating ball bearings to translate rotational motion into linear motion with high efficiency and accuracy. They consist of a screw shaft and a nut, with balls rolling between them to reduce friction and convert torque into thrust. Linear motors, on the other hand, generate linear force directly through electromagnetic principles, eliminating the need for mechanical conversion. This enables high-speed, high-acceleration positioning with minimal backlash and reduced maintenance requirements. Both types of components are essential in applications requiring precise positioning, such as CNC machinery, semiconductor manufacturing, and automated assembly systems. The selection between ball screws and linear motors depends on factors like required speed, acceleration, load capacity, and precision. Ball screws typically offer high stiffness and load capacity, while linear motors excel in speed and dynamic response. Materials commonly used include high-carbon chromium bearing steel for shafts and nuts, stainless steel for corrosion resistance, aluminum alloy for lightweight structures, rare-earth permanent magnets, and copper windings for motors. Key parameters to consider include shaft diameter (16–80 mm), lead (5–40 mm), dynamic load rating (5–120 kN per ISO 3408), static load rating (10–250 kN per ISO 3408), travel accuracy grade (C3–C7 per ISO 3408-3), repeatability (±0.005–±0.02 mm), maximum speed (3000–6000 rpm), operating temperature (-20 to 80°C), ingress protection (IP54–IP65 per IEC 60529), shaft and nut material (GCr15 per GB/T 18254), and weight (2–50 kg). These values are reference ranges and must be verified with the manufacturer for specific models. Always confirm model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement.
Working Principle
Ball screws operate through a screw shaft and nut with recirculating ball bearings that roll between them, converting torque to thrust. The balls reduce friction and provide high efficiency. Linear motors work on electromagnetic principles where a magnetic field generated by coils interacts with permanent magnets to produce direct linear force without mechanical contact. This direct drive eliminates backlash and allows for high acceleration and speed.
Common Materials
High-carbon chromium bearing steel, Stainless steel, Aluminum alloy, Rare-earth permanent magnets, Copper windings
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Shaft Diameter16–80 mmDetermines load capacity and stiffness
Lead5–40 mmAffects speed and resolution
Dynamic Load Rating5–120 kNBasis for life calculationISO 3408
Static Load Rating10–250 kNMaximum load without permanent deformationISO 3408
Travel Accuracy GradeC3–C7C3 for high precision, C7 for general useISO 3408-3
Repeatability±0.005–±0.02 mmCritical for positioning applications
Maximum Speed3000–6000 rpmLimited by critical speed of screw
Operating Temperature-20–80 °COutside range may affect lubrication and materials
Ingress ProtectionIP54–IP65Higher IP for dusty or wet environmentsIEC 60529
Shaft MaterialGCr15Bearing steel for hardness and wear resistanceGB/T 18254
Nut MaterialGCr15Same as shaft for consistent performanceGB/T 18254
Weight2–50 kgDepends 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
    Primary rotating element with precision-ground threads that transfers motion
    Material: High-carbon chromium bearing steel
  • Ball nut Part
    Contains recirculating ball bearings that engage with screw threads
    Material: Bearing steel
  • Recirculation system
    Returns balls to starting point in continuous loop
    Material: Stainless steel
  • Forcer/Coil assembly
    Electromagnetic coil assembly that generates moving magnetic field in linear motors
    Material: Copper windings, epoxy resin
  • Magnet track
    Stationary permanent magnet array that interacts with forcer in linear motors
    Material: Rare-earth magnets, aluminum backing

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Ball Screws/Linear Motors.

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: Not applicable (mechanical component)
other spec: Max speed: 3 m/s (ball screws), 5 m/s (linear motors); Accuracy: ±5-50 μm/m; Load capacity: 1-100 kN
temperature: -20°C to +80°C (standard), up to +120°C with special seals/lubrication
Media Compatibility
✓ Clean industrial environments ✓ Machine tool applications ✓ Semiconductor manufacturing
Unsuitable: High particulate/dust environments without proper sealing
Sizing Data Required
  • Maximum axial load (N)
  • Required travel length (mm)
  • Positioning accuracy/repeatability (μm)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Backlash and Positioning Inaccuracy
Cause: Wear of ball screw nut or ball bearings due to inadequate lubrication, contamination ingress, or excessive axial loads, leading to loss of preload and increased clearance.
Ball Screw Seizure or Binding
Cause: Contamination (e.g., dust, metal chips) entering the recirculation system, combined with lubrication failure, causing abrasive wear, ball jamming, or thread damage.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible grinding, clicking, or squealing noises during operation indicating contamination or lubrication issues.
  • Visible metal flakes or discolored grease around the ball nut, signaling excessive wear or overheating.
Engineering Tips
  • Implement a strict lubrication regimen using manufacturer-specified grease or oil, with intervals adjusted for operating speed, load, and environmental contaminants.
  • Install and maintain effective seals or wipers on the ball nut, and use protective bellows or covers in dusty or wet environments to prevent contamination ingress.

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 B5.48-1977 (Ball Screws) DIN 69051-1:2018 (Ball screw drives - Part 1: General specifications and acceptance conditions)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Lead accuracy: +/-0.005 mm per 300 mm
  • Runout tolerance: 0.01 mm maximum
Quality Inspection
  • Dimensional accuracy verification with CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine)
  • Dynamic load testing for fatigue life assessment

Manufacturers of Ball Screws/Linear Motors

2 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.

JimiTech
Huizhou, Guangdong, 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

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

A ball screw converts rotational motion from a motor into linear motion using recirculating ball bearings, providing high stiffness and load capacity. A linear motor produces linear force directly via electromagnetic interaction, offering high speed and acceleration with minimal backlash and no mechanical transmission.

How do I select the right shaft diameter and lead for a ball screw?

Shaft diameter affects load capacity and stiffness; typical ranges are 16–80 mm. Lead affects speed and resolution; typical ranges are 5–40 mm. Selection depends on application requirements such as load, speed, and precision. Always verify with manufacturer data.

What are the typical accuracy grades for ball screws?

Travel accuracy grades range from C3 to C7 per ISO 3408-3. C3 is for high precision, while C7 is for general use. The grade indicates the permissible deviation in travel per unit length.

What maintenance is required for ball screws and linear motors?

Ball screws require periodic lubrication and inspection for wear or backlash. Linear motors have fewer moving parts, reducing maintenance, but require protection from contamination and proper cooling. Follow manufacturer guidelines for service intervals.

Data Basis

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

Preliminary Technical Classification
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