The well-known bearing life equation, often referred to as L10 life, is a fundamental element in the sizing and selection of recirculating linear bearings. Through statistical analysis and real-world testing, the L10 life equation can predict, with 90 percent reliability, the life that a recirculating bearing can be expected to achieve. But even this universally […]
What’s the difference between backlash and hysteresis in linear systems?
In linear systems, backlash and hysteresis are often referred to as the same phenomenon. But while they both contribute to lost motion, their causes and methods of operation are different. Backlash: The enemy of linear systems Backlash is caused by clearance, or play, between mating parts, which introduces a dead band when the direction of […]
Why are planetary gearboxes preferred for servo applications?
In a servo application — one in which a feedback device is used to control torque, position, or speed of a linear or rotary system — the ratio of the load inertia to the motor inertia is a critical factor in system performance. A lower inertia ratio allows the motor to more precisely control the load […]
How to size a rack and pinion drive
In linear motion applications, ball screws are widely recognized for their ability to provide high thrust forces, while linear motors are gaining market share in high-speed applications, and belt drives continue to maintain their reputation as the best solution for long travel lengths. But rack and pinion drives are the often-overlooked workhorses behind gantry and […]
Where are glass scale linear encoders used?
Linear encoders are generally classified by their scanning technology — optical or magnetic. Magnetic encoders use a metal scale (often referred to as a “tape”), while optical encoders use a scale made of either metal or glass. Although magnetic encoders have seen great improvements in resolution and accuracy in recent years, for single-micron and sub-micron […]
Ball screw standards: What you need to know about DIN, ISO, and JIS
If you’re involved in ball screw sizing or selection, you’ve probably noticed that there are several different standards that govern various aspects of ball screw design, from lead accuracy and load capacity to ball nut tolerances and rigidity. Fortunately, in many cases, these standards are in harmony and provide the same (or virtually equivalent) specifications. […]
Profiled rail accuracy: When accuracy class doesn’t tell the whole story
You’ve chosen a profiled rail and bearing for a high-precision application — machining, cutting, or metrology, for example. The bearing (aka carriage, or runner block) has good load capacity and rigidity, so it should provide long life and low deflection. But when you integrate the assembly into your application, you notice that the system doesn’t […]
Choosing the right stage actuation for dynamic-metrology applications
When measurements are made to discrete product on the fly, it’s key that the motion system minimize error and correct for the rest. Brian Handerhan | Business development manager • Life sciences Patrick Lehr | Product manager • Precision mechanics Electromechanical & Drives Division • Parker Hannifin Corp. Dynamic metrology is the collection of data […]
7 tools every mechanical engineer should have
As computer programs and mobile apps take over our lives, one of the great things about being a mechanical engineer is that there are still aspects of the job that allow — and sometimes require — us to do things by hand, the “old fashioned” way. Granted, drafting boards and T-squares have been replaced by CAD […]
Selecting shafts for linear bearings: two things you need to know
In a round shaft linear bearing system, the shaft acts as the inner raceway of the bearing and plays a significant role in the wear and life of the system. Both recirculating and plain linear bearings can use a wide variety of shaft materials, depending on the application or environmental requirements. Shafts for recirculating linear […]
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