Machine builders and end users have many factors to consider when choosing linear motion components and systems – travel length, speed, acceleration, positioning accuracy and repeatability, just to name a few. But sometimes the most challenging requirement isn’t a traditional application spec. It’s the environment that the system will be working in. Many industries have processes […]
Linear bearings
How to calculate linear bearing life
When selecting linear guides, have you ever seen a disclaimer in the catalog or on the manufacturer’s website regarding dynamic load capacities? It typically reads something like this: Dynamic load capacities are based on 100,000 m of travel. When comparing to products for which load capacities are based on 50,000 m of travel, multiply the 100,000 m […]
How Seals Extend the Life of Linear Systems
When selecting a linear system – ball screw, linear guide, or actuator – most of the focus is on application data such as load, speed, travel, and duty cycle. But there’s another factor that should be considered, especially for technically demanding applications or harsh environments. That factor is sealing. How are the bearings protected against […]
Complete guide to selecting and sizing linear guide wheels for motion axes
Updated May 2018 || When it comes to linear guide wheels, here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth design. Linear guide systems are chosen for an application based not only on their precision and speed characteristics, but also on a host of other operating conditions such as environment, length, speed, duty cycle, […]
What You Need to Know about the 2:1 Ratio
by Jonathan R. Schroeder, Engineer The Binding Ratio is a frequently misunderstood mechanical principle, with common misconceptions still causing stalling and application failure. A closer look at the mathematics behind the rule will give you a better comprehension of how to implement it. One of the more frequently misunderstood principles regarding the use of plane […]
New dry-tech sample box from igus
Plastics specialist igus has announced the release of its dry-tech® box, an ingenious sample kit designed to help engineers find the right material bearing for their application. The box contains a set of state-of-the-art card overlays, which filter the bearing choices by criteria – similar to the igus online configurator. The dry-tech sample box includes […]
igus to exhibit new dry-running solutions at SLAS 2014
igus will be presenting some of its latest innovations at the 3rd annual SLAS conference and exhibition, the flagship event of the SLAS, the Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening. Bringing together thousands of professional scientists, researchers, academics, and government delegates looking to leverage laboratory technology and automation to drive results for their respective organizations, […]
Thomson Solution Delivers Smooth, Backlash-free “Horsepower”
The EquusCT from Artec Imaging is a patient position and CT scanning table with floating carousel that offers a high degree of maneuverability for veterinarians practicing equine healthcare. EquusCT utilizes a Thomson ball screw assembly and Thomson bearings and shafting rail assemblies to enable a horse’s head, neck, front and rear legs to be accurately […]
Fresh on the Table: Polymers for Increased Food Safety
Designers and operators of food production lines must adhere to strict food hygiene regulations from the FDA to ensure consumers can buy food safely. This includes avoiding any kind of contamination such as from foreign particles or lubricants during production or transport process. The use of special materials can significantly reduce this risk. Detectable polymers, […]
Corrosion — How bearings fail Part 3 of 6
Recently we examined how surface distress contributes to bearing failure. Now we’ll examine corrosion. Corrosion occurs primarily when either lubricants fail or the seals have failed and the bearings have been exposed to water or corrosive liquids. Corrosion can lead to early fatigue failures through the rust that forms in the bearing, especially if rust occurs in […]
