Editorial Technical Reference

Guide Rod / Linear Bearing

This page explains how Guide Rod / Linear Bearing 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 provides linear guidance and support for moving parts within a material hold-down system.

View Full Specifications Explore Manufacturing Sources
Guide Rod / Linear Bearing in a manufacturing environment
Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Guide Rod / Linear Bearing

Definition
In a Material Hold-Down System, the Guide Rod / Linear Bearing assembly is a critical sub-component responsible for ensuring precise, low-friction linear motion of the hold-down mechanism. It constrains movement to a single axis, preventing lateral deflection and maintaining alignment under load during material clamping operations. The guide rod is a hardened, ground shaft that provides a rigid, straight track. The linear bearing, a housing containing recirculating ball or roller elements, rides along this rod. The bearing converts sliding friction into rolling friction, allowing the attached hold-down plate or arm to move smoothly and precisely with minimal resistance and wear. This assembly is essential for applications requiring repeatable positioning and high accuracy, such as in clamping fixtures, presses, and automated machinery. The guide rod and bearing are available in standard metric sizes, with shaft diameters ranging from 12 to 80 mm and lengths from 100 to 2000 mm, with custom lengths up to 6000 mm on request. Dynamic load ratings range from 2.5 to 120 kN, and static load ratings from 4.0 to 180 kN, based on a 100 km travel life. Shaft tolerance grades are G6 to G8, with bearing bore tolerance H6, and surface roughness is 0.2 to 0.4 µm Ra. Operating temperature is -20 to 80°C, with high-temperature versions up to 150°C. Maximum sliding speed is 2 to 5 m/s. Materials include hardened and ground bearing steel (GCr15/52100) and stainless steel (440C). Shaft and bearing material is GCr15, hardened to 58-62 HRC. Weight per meter ranges from 0.9 to 39 kg. These specifications are reference ranges; verify model-specific values with the manufacturer.
Working Principle
The guide rod provides a rigid, straight track. The linear bearing contains recirculating balls or rollers that roll along the rod, converting sliding friction into rolling friction. This reduces resistance and wear, allowing the hold-down plate to move smoothly and precisely along the rod's axis. The bearing housing maintains the rolling elements in a recirculating path, ensuring continuous motion. The system constrains movement to a single axis, preventing lateral deflection and maintaining alignment under load.
Common Materials
Hardened and ground bearing steel (e.g., GCr15/52100), Stainless steel (e.g., 440C)
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Shaft Diameter12–80 mmStandard metric sizes; custom diameters available.ISO 10285
Shaft Length100–2000 mmCustom lengths up to 6000 mm on request.
Dynamic Load Rating2.5–120 kNBased on 100 km travel life.ISO 10285
Static Load Rating4.0–180 kNMaximum load without permanent deformation.ISO 10285
Tolerance GradeG6–G8Shaft tolerance; bearing bore tolerance H6.ISO 286
Surface Roughness0.2–0.4 µm RaCritical for seal life and smooth motion.ISO 1302
Operating Temperature-20–80 °CFor standard steel; high-temp versions up to 150°C.
Maximum Sliding Speed2–5 m/sDepends on lubrication and load.
Shaft MaterialGCr15Equivalent to AISI 52100; hardened to 58–62 HRC.GB/T 18254
Bearing MaterialGCr15Balls and races; cage made of steel or polymer.GB/T 18254
Hardness58–62 HRCShaft and bearing race hardness.ISO 6508
Weight per Meter0.9–39 kg/mFor shaft; depends on 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
  • Guide Rod (Shaft) Part
    Provides a hardened, precision-ground, straight track for linear motion.
    Material: Hardened bearing steel or stainless steel
  • Linear Bearing Housing Part
    Outer casing that houses the rolling elements and mounts to the moving part of the hold-down system.
    Material: Steel or aluminum alloy
  • Recirculating Ball/Roller Elements Part
    Provide rolling contact between the housing and the rod, minimizing friction.
    Material: Chrome steel
  • Seals/Wipers Part
    Protect the internal bearing components from dust, chips, and contaminants.
    Material: Synthetic rubber (e.g., Nitrile)

Application & selection

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Up to 50 MPa static, 20 MPa dynamic
other spec: Max velocity: 2 m/s, Load capacity: 10 kN
temperature: -40°C to +120°C
Media Compatibility
✓ Hydraulic fluids ✓ Industrial lubricants ✓ Clean air systems
Unsuitable: Abrasive slurry environments
Sizing Data Required
  • Shaft diameter (mm)
  • Required stroke length (mm)
  • Maximum axial load (N)

Risk, maintenance & compliance

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Linear Bearing Brinelling
Cause: Impact loading or shock during operation, improper installation causing dents on raceways, leading to premature wear and vibration.
Guide Rod Scoring/Galling
Cause: Inadequate lubrication, contamination ingress (dust, debris), or misalignment causing metal-to-metal contact and surface damage.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible grinding or squeaking noises during linear motion
  • Visible scoring marks or discoloration on the guide rod surface
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular lubrication schedules with appropriate grease/oil and install protective bellows or seals to prevent contamination.
  • Ensure precise alignment during installation and use proper mounting tools to avoid preloading or distortion of components.

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 10285-1:2011 (Linear motion rolling bearings - Part 1: Dynamic load ratings and rating life) ANSI/ABMA 9:1990 (Load Ratings and Fatigue Life for Ball Bearings) DIN 718-2:1985 (Plain bearings; linear bearings; dimensions, tolerances)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Bore diameter: +/-0.01mm
  • Straightness: 0.05mm per 1000mm length
Quality Inspection
  • Dimensional verification with CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine)
  • Hardness testing (Rockwell C scale)
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.

Compare the published product scope and source details, then include your specifications and quantity in an enquiry.

Manufacturers of Guide Rod / Linear Bearing

Manufacturer profiles associated with Guide Rod / Linear Bearing.

Sourcing Guide Rod / Linear Bearing from China?
Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.
Request manufacturers We manufacture this

Explore company information and manufacturing capabilities, then discuss the scope of your project with a relevant supplier.

Buyer enquiry

Request manufacturing insight for Guide Rod / Linear Bearing

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 to include
Share your product specifications, quantity, destination and target delivery date.

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 [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical shaft diameter range for this guide rod?

The shaft diameter ranges from 12 to 80 mm, per ISO 10285. Custom diameters may be available on request.

What materials are used for the guide rod and bearing?

The shaft is typically made of hardened and ground bearing steel (GCr15/52100) or stainless steel (440C). The bearing balls and races are also GCr15, with a steel or polymer cage.

What is the maximum sliding speed?

The maximum sliding speed is 2 to 5 m/s, depending on lubrication and load conditions.

What is the operating temperature range?

The standard operating temperature is -20 to 80°C. High-temperature versions can operate up to 150°C.

Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Related equipment

Applied To / Applications

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

Material Hold-Down System
View system integration details

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Downstream Applications

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.

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 12 October 2026

Need to Manufacture Guide Rod / Linear Bearing?

Compare manufacturer profiles with relevant product and process capability.

Create Manufacturer Profile Contact Us
Previous Product
Z-axis Ram/Spindle
Last Product
Get QuotesChat