Co-axial screw rail
Lead screws translate rotary to linear motion, but require other components such as linear rails to support and guide the moving load. Moreover, such systems may require bellows to protect the screw and rail from debris in harsh environments.
To prevent binding and maintain smooth operation, alignment between the screw and rails is critical. By reducing the number of components and time-consuming alignment procedures, a co-axial screw-rail design saves space and cuts cost. And because the rail shields the screw, the design may eliminate the need for protective bellows.
The patent-pending design uses a proprietary coating on the carbon-steel rail to improve toughness and corrosion resistance. And TFE coating on the 303 stainless-steel screw and the rail smoothes operation. Nuts use a reinforcement and lubrication package compounded right into the polyacetal material. Available in 1-, 3.254-, and 1.252-inch outside-diameter rail sizes, the screw rail can be used for grippers, conveyor-width adjustment, medical and fluid dispensing equipment, and robotic position systems.
Dave Arguin
Kerk Motion Products
One Kerk Drive
Hollis, NH 03049
(603) 465-7227.