The preloading of the linear guide slider refers to adjusting the preload force between the slider and the guide rail during installation, in order to improve the rigidity of the linear guide rail and eliminate gaps, thereby enhancing motion accuracy and stability. According to the size of the preload force and the different application scenarios, preloading types are mainly divided into light preloading, medium preloading, heavy preloading, and overweight preloading.
1、 Light preloading
Light preloading is suitable for equipment with a fixed load direction and low vibration and impact forces. For example, automatic packaging machines, automatic door and window processing machines, etc. The characteristic of this preloading type is that the preloading force is small, which can meet the accuracy requirements of general equipment, and will not cause excessive internal load on the slider and guide rail.
2、 Medium preloading
Medium preloading is suitable for equipment with cantilever loads or torque effects, equipment for single axis use, and equipment with light loads and high precision requirements. For example, industrial robots, grinding machine worktable feed shafts, etc. The characteristic of this preloading type is moderate preloading force, which can ensure accuracy while also considering the service life of the slider and guide rail.
3、 Heavy preloading
Heavy preloading is suitable for equipment that requires high rigidity, large vibration and impact forces, and machine tools with high load cutting. For example, machining centers, NC lathes, etc. The characteristic of this preloading type is that it has a large preload force, which can provide higher rigidity, but may cause significant internal loads on the slider and guide rail.
4、 Overweight preloading
Overweight preloading is suitable for equipment that requires higher rigidity and significant vibration and impact forces. For example, the Z-axis of work machinery. The characteristic of this preloading type is that the preload force is very large, which can provide extremely high rigidity, but may cause significant internal loads on the slider and guide rail.
Advantages and disadvantages of preloading
Advantages: Improve the rigidity of linear guides and eliminate gaps, thereby enhancing motion accuracy and stability.
Disadvantage: An increase in preloading can also cause an increase in internal load on the rolling elements, which may reduce the service life of the slider.
Basis for selecting preloading level
The basis for selecting the preloading level mainly includes the load direction of the equipment, the magnitude of vibration and impact force, accuracy requirements, and whether high rigidity is required. When selecting the preloading level, it is necessary to consider these factors comprehensively to ensure the optimal performance and service life of the linear guide system.
The content of this article is a summary and introduction of the basic knowledge of "linear guide" products by Shanglong Automation Parts. We hope to help users in various industries deepen their understanding of the products, better choose high-quality products that meet the needs of enterprises, and solve the problems encountered in product selection. If you have any other questions, you can also consult Shanglong Automation for free.