The Benefits of Recirculating Ball Screws

Compared to another screw, such as a lead or power screw, ball screws are more efficient and often a better choice. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of recirculating ball screws and the applications they are well suited for.

Efficiency

Ball screws have an excellent reputation for being highly efficient—90 percent efficient to be exact. This means they can turn 90 percent of rotational motion into linear motion. When comparing that number to only 25 percent efficiency for lead screws, it’s easy to see which is more efficient.

Quiet

Recirculating ball screws operate with the smooth use of balls rather than sliding friction. This rolling friction leads to a quiet application.

Low Heat

Just as with the quiet sounds of a recirculating ball screw, the low friction equates to low heat. Heat transfers to machinery, so the less, the better. The low heat allows for greater sustained motion at high speeds and also less damage.

High Load Capacity

Because ball screws are often custom-built for each job, they can bear a high load capacity. An increased number of balls and optimized ball grooves ensure an ability to handle a higher load.

Reliable and Durable

Recirculating ball screws are reliable because of their ability to handle high loads with little to no wear and tear on the ball screw itself. This smooth operation which causes no friction or heat means a durable method for turning rotating motion into linear motion.

When Are Ball Screws Used?

Now that we understand the benefits of recirculating ball screws, let’s look at when a ball screw is commonly used. Anytime rotational motion requires translating into linear motion, a ball screw is a good choice. The following are areas in which we most often find recirculating ball screws:

  • Automobile industry
  • Aircraft and missiles
  • Robotics
  • Machine tools
  • Manufacturing industry

Recirculating ball screws have changed the way we transfer rotational motion into linear motion. They offer greater efficiency, less damage, and years of life when properly maintained.

At Wedin International, we are proud to be trusted ball screw manufacturers, as well as the manufacturers of acme screws, nuts, gears, and splines. Contact us with all of your motion control needs.