The Advantages of Ball Screws
A ball screw is designed to take rotary motion and convert it to linear motion. It comes with a screw shaft, rotating nuts, and ball bearings that sit between the thread of the screw and the nut. When the ball screw moves, the nut moves smoothly along the threads.
Many people mistake a ball screw for a lead screw as they do look very similar. They also function similarly. However, a ball screw has certain advantages over a lead screw. When choosing which device to use, a manufacturer must be aware of the Advantages of Ball Screws.
Highly Efficient
A ball screw is more efficient than other types of screws. Lead screws only offer 20 to 80 percent efficiency, while a ball screw’s efficiency is 90 percent. More of the rotary motion of the ball screw is converted to linear motion and the conversion process takes less time. This efficiency minimizes energy loss. Less heat is generated and the system responsiveness improves. Ball screws can handle high loads even though they are very small, unlike lead screws. In fact, ball screws may be able to handle thrust loads of thousands of pounds.
Accuracy
When a manufacturer needs accuracy, ball screws are the right choice. The level of precision varies by device, based on whether a ground or rolled ball screw is selected. There is very little friction thanks to the rolling action of the ball bearings, so motions are controlled and repeatable. Positioning accuracies are 0.01 mm or better in most cases, making ball screws ideal for applications with tight tolerances. Manufacturers can count on superior repeatability. The ball screw returns to the same position each time, so manufacturers often use them for CNC machining, assembly automation, and pick-and-place robotics. They know the finished products will have minimal variability.
Reduced Friction
When a manufacturer properly maintains its ball screws, they last longer. There is less wear on the screw shaft and nut thanks to the rolling action of the balls. Lead screws have a shorter lifespan because of the sliding friction. The ball screw design eliminates this. Manufacturers must lubricate the ball screws and protect them from contamination to extend their lifespan. Those that do will find their ball screws can easily complete millions of cycles of use before they must be serviced or replaced. The company saves money thanks to the reduced maintenance requirements and extended lifespan of these devices.
Versatility
Manufacturers may choose from a range of sizes, materials, and configurations. This means they can be used in several applications. In addition, they come in different lengths. Manufacturers choose the shaft diameter and nut style that fits the application where the screw will be used. When doing so, the manufacturer must consider load, speed, and space constraints. Doing so ensures the right ball screw is selected for each application.
Ball screws are a cost-effective option. They use less external power than hydraulic or pneumatic systems while offering other benefits. Every company should look into ball screws today and make the switch wherever possible to see these benefits.