When it comes to converting motion that is rotational to motion that is linear, a ball screw is the best choice. The complete ball screw assembly includes the screw itself as well as the nut. There will be end mounting supports as well, and these will have different configurations that will match up with various applications.
Benefits of Ball Screws
The benefit of using a ball screw is the method of operation to move the nut up and down the screw. Rather than have the nut make contact with the threads on the screw, as in a traditional type of nut and screw assembly, the ball screw uses small balls that run in the thread. This holds the nut off of the threads, limiting friction. The balls themselves are able to move and cycle through the nut either on the inside or the outside. In this way, friction is dramatically reduced, which results in more significant energy transfer without loss.
Precision Manufacturing
One very critical element in the efficiency, as well as the life of the ball screw assembly, is the precise way the screw and the threads are produced. Typically, screws can be rolled, precision rolled or ground to create the thread.
Lack of quality control and precision in the manufacturing of a ball screw assembly will result in less efficiency and greater friction. Not only is this ineffective, but it will reduce the life cycle of the ball nut, often resulting in costly downtime and repairs.
It is also possible to repair a ball screw as needed, which some of the top manufacturers are able to do. For these tasks, they will refurbish or rebuild the screw to create an exact replica of the original. Always check that the company is completing the work in-house and they have the experience and expertise to get the job done correctly.
