Illustrative cylindrical linear bushings with different outside envelopes
Technical Center

LM vs LME Linear Bearings: Check Dimensions Before Buying

LM and LME linear bearings can share a nominal shaft diameter while having different outside dimensions and fit requirements. They are separate dimensional families, so a matching bore number is not enough for a direct replacement. Check outside diameter, overall length, retention features and the

Illustrative open and closed linear bushings with different shaft supports
Technical Center

Open vs Closed Linear Bushings on Supported Shafts

Choose an open linear bushing when its opening must pass over a continuously supported shaft’s pedestal. A closed bushing surrounds the shaft and is commonly used where the bearing does not need to cross such a support. The shaft support, bearing opening, housing and load direction must be selected

Illustrative linear module and external displacement measuring fixture
Technical Center

Testing Bidirectional Repeatability of Linear Modules

Test bidirectional repeatability by repeatedly approaching the same target positions from both directions under controlled load, speed and temperature conditions. Report the spread within each approach direction and the difference between directions separately. A motor encoder count or command incr

Illustrative guided linear module showing carriage and drive-end space
Technical Center

Effective Stroke vs Overall Length in Linear Modules

Effective stroke is the travel available for the intended task. Overall length is the physical envelope of the selected module and its specified accessories. A 400 mm required move therefore does not imply a 400 mm-long module. Carriage length, end structures, drive hardware and operating clearance

Illustrative indicator contact on a ball nut for axial-movement checks
Technical Center

Measuring Ball Screw Backlash Without Confusing Compliance

To measure ball screw backlash at the nut, prevent the screw from rotating or moving axially, reverse a defined axial load on the nut, and measure the nut’s movement relative to the shaft. A reading taken only at the machine table can also include support-bearing movement, coupling effects, housing

Illustrative ball screw nut and a candidate replacement nut
Technical Center

Can You Replace Only the Nut on a Ball Screw?

Replacing only a ball nut can be appropriate when the manufacturer confirms compatibility with the retained shaft and the shaft remains serviceable. Nominal diameter and lead are necessary identification details, but they do not establish raceway, ball-size, preload or return-system compatibility.

Illustrative screw and nut assemblies with different lead geometries
Technical Center

1605 vs 1610 Ball Screws: Speed, Force and Resolution

In common ball-screw naming, 1605 identifies a nominal 16 mm screw with 5 mm travel per revolution, while 1610 identifies a 16 mm screw with 10 mm travel per revolution. Confirm the supplier’s full code. At the same screw rpm, a 10 mm lead moves twice as fast; at the same axial force, it needs appr

Illustrative ball screw assembly and tachometer for a speed-limit discussion
Technical Center

Ball Screw DN Limits vs Shaft Critical Speed

The DN limit and shaft critical speed address different restrictions. DN relates screw speed to the nut’s rolling-element circulation system using a manufacturer-defined diameter. Critical speed concerns the rotating shaft’s tendency to resonate. The permissible operating speed must satisfy both, a