Dimensional Tolerances
Consistent dimensional tolerances along the entire length of a guide shaft are critical for consistent bearing operation. Any variances will be transferred through the bearing producing inconsistent results in the entire assembly. PBC Linear Shafting is produced through a process developed and refined to deliver the highest levels of repeatability in dimensional tolerances. The result is a guide shaft that supplies greater uniformity of load distribution through the bearing, improved system accuracy, and increased bearing life. Rolling element bearings have an increased life expectancy due to a greater normalization of load distribution. Plain bearings experience less friction resistance and decreased binding occurrences due to a more consistent contact interface with the guide shaft.
Benefits Include:
- Improved System Accuracy: The precise dimensional tolerances ensure consistent bearing operation throughout the shaft, leading to higher accuracy and precision in the entire assembly. This consistency is crucial for applications requiring high levels of precision and reliability.
- Increased Bearing Life: Uniform load distribution achieved through consistent dimensional tolerances significantly extends the life expectancy of bearings. This is particularly beneficial for rolling element bearings, where normalized load distribution reduces wear and tear, leading to longer operational life and reduced maintenance costs.
Surface Finish
Surface finish is a key factor in bearing performance, affecting areas such as cleanliness, load, life, and coefficient of friction. All Linear Shafting is ground and polished within a consistent surface finish range resulting in a higher level of predictable performance and lubrication retention for linear bearings.
Benefits Include:
- Increased Range: A decreased amount of wear particulate being generated by the bearing-shaft interface in operation. This minimized particulate generation increases the range of applications (especially in clean rooms) where it can be used.
- Reduce Drag: The polishing process removes microscopic peaks from the shaft surface resulting in a consistently smooth surface reducing drag (friction) and wear on the bearing components.
Hardness
PBC Linear guide shafts are surface hardened to increase their resistance to deflection and damage due to point loading or line contact of rolling element bearings. It also increases the wear capabilities of the material, extending the life of any bearing-shaft assembly by holding acceptable operational tolerances for a longer time. PBC Linear provides the most consistent surface hardness and depth of hardness across a range of sizes as compared to our competitors.
Benefits Include:
- Increased Resistance to Deflection and Damage: The surface hardening significantly enhances the shaft's resistance to deflection and damage, particularly from point loading or line contact of rolling element bearings. This increased durability is essential for maintaining the integrity and performance of the shaft under high loads or in demanding applications.
- Extended Wear Capabilities: The hardening process improves the material's wear capabilities, which directly contributes to the longevity of the bearing-shaft assembly. By maintaining operational tolerances for a longer period, the assembly can achieve prolonged service life, reducing the need for frequent replacements or maintenance.
