Numerous mechanical innovations came into play during the Industrial Revolution. Over time, more technology entered the mix, and the demand for more versatile machinery surged. That, in turn, led to even more mechanical components being created to give machinery more efficiency, effectiveness, and versatility. Though several inventions came into play over the decades to follow, the ball screw could be considered one of the most important.
While ball screws didn’t emerge until a little over a century ago, well after the Industrial Revolution, they certainly allowed for several improvements upon the machinery that was developed during that time. They provided a way to effectively convert rotational movement into linear motion, and that paved the way for an array of advancements in manufacturing as well as other industries. At this point, ball screws are indispensable. They come in various types and are used in countless applications. They’re also available from a variety of companies, but it’s important to choose the right ball screw manufacturer to get the most out of your investment.
Looking at Different Types of Ball Screws
Before delving into the importance of choosing the right manufacturer, take a moment to learn more about the different types of ball screws on the market. Each one has its own list of benefits and recommended applications. Knowing more about them will help you choose not only the right supplier but the right component to meet your needs.
Ground Ball Screws
Ground ball screws begin as a bar or rod. From there, material is ground away from them to create grooves. They tend to provide more precision than other varieties, so they’re recommended for applications that require the utmost accuracy. They’re generally more expensive than some other types of ball screws because of the time and effort needed to make them and the higher levels of accuracy they provide.
Rolled Ball Screws
Rolled ball screws also start as blank bars. They’re sent through rotating dies to create threads. It’s possible to make longer ball screws via this technique than with grinding. Though ground ball screws are said to offer the highest levels of accuracy, rolled ball screws offer comparable precision. They also tend to have better surface finishes. Rolled ball screws are often less expensive because the rolling process is faster and more efficient.
Preloaded Ball Screws
Preloaded ball screws have internal force applied to them before installation. This can be done in different ways, including installing a double nut or oversized balls in the assembly. Preloading reduces backlash and can improve rigidity, accuracy, and repeatability. Preload amounts range from one percent up to ten percent. Which one is best depends on the application you’re using the assembly for and the level of precision and rigidity you need among other factors.
High-Lead Ball Screws
High-lead ball screws have larger lead angles than conventional versions. That allows them to operate at higher speeds, and they may produce less noise and vibration. Though they can cover more distance than other types of ball screws, having a higher lead reduces their load capacity. It’s important to consider that factor when choosing a ball screw.
Hollow Shaft Ball Screws
Most ball screws have solid shafts, but as the name indicates, that’s not the case with hollow shaft versions. They have hollow cores. That reduces their weight and can allow electrical wiring, hydraulic hoses, fiber optics, or other components to pass through them. They’re often used in specialized industrial applications or in situations where space is limited.
Why Is Choosing the Right Manufacturer Important?
That brings us to the importance of finding the right ball screw manufacturer. For one, a superior manufacturer can make all these types of ball screws and more available to you. They can help you choose the one that will best meet your needs as well. That manufacturer can also offer far more customization options than you’d get from a second-rate supplier. Those are only a few of the factors to consider.
- Quality: One of the most important reasons to choose your ball screw manufacturer carefully is quality. With the right manufacturer, you’ll consistently receive high-quality products that are more likely to provide the precision and repeatability you’re looking for. Those ball screws will be more likely to last longer as well. Keep in mind that the quality of the ball screws you use will affect the quality of your products.
- Efficiency: Additionally, ball screws from a leading manufacturer can improve your operating efficiency. They may produce fewer vibrations and less backlash. They may also have higher load capacities. Since they won’t wear out or break as often, they’ll cause less unexpected downtime. They’ll take less of a toll on the other components of your machinery as well.
- Meeting Industry Standards: First-rate manufacturers are also more likely to meet or exceed the standards of their industry for strength, longevity, safety, and other factors. On top of that, they’ll help to ensure those components meet the standards of your industry. Whether your part of the manufacturing, food production, aerospace, automotive industry, or beyond, you’re most likely held to strict standards. Regulations vary widely from one industry to the next as well. No matter which industry you’re a part of, a leading ball screw manufacturer will help you remain in compliance.
Finding the Best Ball Screw Manufacturer to Meet Your Needs
Several companies manufacture ball screws, but like the different types of ball screws, not all of them are created equally. It’s just as important to choose the right manufacturer as it is to choose the best assembly for your machinery and applications. Look for a manufacturer that offers a variety of products as well as customization options. Ideally, you should choose a manufacturer with experience in creating ball screws for your industry. Be sure to choose one that has a reputation for quality and customer satisfaction as well.
Ball screws can bring you numerous benefits. Those include high load capacity, accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency to name a few. With the right manufacturer on your side, you’ll be able to make the most of those advantages. Keep the different types of ball screws and the factors mentioned here in mind to help you make the right decisions.
