What Is Ball Screw Support Unit?

Support units are special parts for bearings used in a set together with a ball screw. Support units come in various shapes, such as square, round and round 2-surface chamfered. There are also 2 different types—models used at the fixed side and models used at the support side.

Ball screws are an essential component in various types of machinery, such as industrial robots, aerospace applications, and medical devices. They are used to provide linear motion and transform rotational motion into smooth and precise linear motion. Ball screws are an indispensable part of many different mechanisms, providing accuracy and precision that cannot be achieved by other types of screws. To ensure the highest level of performance, ball screws often require support units.

The ball screw is a mechanical component that converts rotary motion into linear motion with minimal friction. It consists of a screw shaft and a nut assembly complete with a set of precision steel balls. The steel balls roll in helical grooves in the nut and the shaft, transmitting the rotational motion to linear motion.

Compared to other screws, ball screws offer high accuracy and efficiency due to the minimal friction losses during operation. However, they are also more complex to produce and require more precise manufacturing techniques, making them more expensive than standard screws.

Support units are specialized components used in conjunction with ball screws to ensure their proper function and longevity. Ball screws require a support structure to prevent excessive vibration, deflection, or wobble. Any of these issues can cause issues with the overall precision of the linear motion, leading to reduced accuracy and reliability. Support units help to reduce wear and tear on the ball screw and ensure its longevity by providing proper alignment, preventing buckling, and minimizing vibration. By using support units, ball screws can deliver smooth and precise linear motion with a high level of accuracy and reliability. Types of Support Units for Ball Screws There are various types of support units for ball screws, each designed to meet specific needs.

The most common types of support units include:

1. Fixed Support Units

Fixed support units offer a rigid structure that helps to secure the ball screw in place. These units are ideal for high-precision applications where maximum stability is required.

2. Simple Support Units

Simple support units are used in applications where a moderate level of support is needed. They provide flexibility for the ball screw, allowing for minor adjustments to compensate for alignment issues.

3. Differential Support Units

Differential support units are designed to provide support for ball screws with a high lead, ensuring that minimum deflection and uniform motion is maintained.

4. The Importance of Choosing the Right Support Units

The performance of ball screws is directly related to the quality of their support units. A poorly designed or selected support unit can cause long-term issues with accuracy, precision, and reliability.

Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right support units that meet the specific needs of the application. At our company, we specialize in the design and production of ball screws and their associated support units. Our experienced engineers and technicians can design custom support units to meet the precise needs of your application. We strive to offer innovative solutions that provide maximum accuracy, precision, and durability.