Linear Guide Rail
Linear guide rails can be divided into three types: roller linear guide rails, cylindrical linear guide rails, and ball linear guide rails. They are used to support and guide moving components to perform reciprocating linear motion in a given direction. Depending on the friction properties, linear motion guide rails can be classified into sliding friction guide rails, rolling friction guide rails, elastic friction guide rails, fluid friction guide rails, and other types.
Definition
Linear guide rails, also known as line rails, slide rails, linear guides, or linear slide rails, are used in applications that require linear reciprocating motion. They can withstand certain torque and achieve high-precision linear motion under high loads. They are referred to as linear guide rails in mainland China and linear guides or linear slide rails in Taiwan.
Classification
Linear guide rails are classified into square ball linear guide rails, dual-axis core roller linear guide rails, and single-axis core linear guide rails.
Function
The function of linear guide rail motion is to support and guide moving components to perform reciprocating linear motion in a given direction. Depending on the friction properties, linear motion guide rails can be classified into sliding friction guide rails, rolling friction guide rails, elastic friction guide rails, fluid friction guide rails, and other types. Linear bearings are mainly used in automated machinery, such as imported machine tools, bending machines, laser welding machines, etc. Linear bearings are used in conjunction with linear shafts. Linear guide rails are mainly used in mechanical structures with high precision requirements. The moving and fixed elements of linear guide rails do not require intermediate media but use rolling steel balls.
Automatic Self-aligning Capability
The combination of DF (45-°45)° from the arc groove allows for automatic self-aligning ability. During installation, the elastic deformation of the steel balls and the transfer of contact points enable the internal absorption of slight surface deviations, resulting in high-precision and stable smooth motion.
1. Interchangeability
Due to strict control over production and manufacturing precision, the dimensions of linear guide rails can be maintained within a certain level. The design of the slider includes retainers to prevent the steel balls from falling out. Therefore, some series have interchangeable precision. Customers can order guide rails or sliders according to their needs, or store guide rails and sliders separately to reduce storage space.
2. High Rigidity in all directions
By using a four-row arc groove and a contact angle of 45 degrees for the four rows of steel balls, the steel balls achieve an ideal two-point contact structure, enabling them to withstand loads from the vertical and horizontal directions. When necessary, preloading can be applied to improve rigidity.
Application Fields
1. Linear guide rails are mainly used in automated machinery, such as imported machine tools, bending machines, laser welding machines, and more. Of course, linear guide rails are used in conjunction with linear shafts.
2. Linear guide rails are primarily used in mechanical structures that require high precision. The moving and fixed elements of linear guide rails do not require intermediate media but use rolling steel balls. Rolling steel balls are suitable for high-speed motion, have low friction coefficients, and high sensitivity, meeting the working requirements of moving components such as tool holders and drag plates in machine tools. If the force applied to the steel balls is too great and the steel balls endure preloading for too long, it can increase the resistance to motion.
Usage Precautions
Linear guide rails are precision components, so they require careful handling. Even with high-performance linear guide rails, improper usage can lead to subpar performance and damage to the guide rails. Therefore, the following points should be noted when using linear guide rails:
1. Prevent corrosion: When handling linear guide rails directly, thoroughly wash away sweat from hands and apply high-quality mineral oil before operation. Pay special attention to rust prevention during the rainy season and summer.
2. Maintain cleanliness: Keep the linear guide rails and their surrounding environment clean. Even microscopic dust that is invisible to the naked eye can increase wear, vibration, and noise of the guide rails.
3. Install with care: Install linear guide rails with caution. Avoid strong stamping, direct hammering of the guide rails, and applying pressure through the rolling elements.
4. Use appropriate installation tools: Use suitable and accurate installation tools for linear guide rails. Try to use dedicated tools and avoid using fabrics or short fibers.
Slider
A slider is a mold component that can slide vertically or at a certain angle perpendicular to the opening and closing direction of the mold during the mold's opening action. Sliders are used when the product structure requires the use of a slider for proper mold release. The material itself has appropriate hardness, wear resistance, and sufficient friction resistance to withstand motion. The hardness of the cavity or core part on the slider should be at the same level as other parts of the mold cavity and core.
Industrial Process Equipment
Molds are important process equipment for producing various industrial products. With the rapid development of the plastics industry and the widespread application of plastic products in industries such as aviation, aerospace, electronics, machinery, shipbuilding, and automotive, the requirements for molds have become increasingly stringent. Traditional mold design methods are no longer able to meet today's demands. Compared to traditional mold design, computer-aided engineering (CAE) technology has significant advantages in improving productivity, ensuring product quality, reducing costs, and alleviating labor intensity.
Applications
Linear guide rails are widely used in various fields, including spray equipment, CNC machine tools, machining centers, electronics, automated machinery, textile machinery, automotive, medical equipment, printing machinery, packaging machinery, woodworking machinery, mold opening, and many others.
