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Aluminum Extrusion Builds Precision SIMO® Linear Actuators
Aluminum Extrusion for Precision SIMO® Linear Actuators

Aluminum Extrusion for Precision SIMO® Linear Actuators

Aluminum extrusion is a cost-effective way to produce lightweight profiles for linear actuators and guides with a consistent cross section, but standard extrusions still contain natural bow, twist, camber, and other geometric variation. PBC Linear addresses these limitations with the proprietary SIMO® process, which machines the critical surfaces of a linear guide extrusion in one synchronized pass. The result is a precision-machined rail with tight tolerances maintained consistently along its full length. For design engineers, that means straighter rails, easier alignment, less installation time, and more reliable linear motion.

Discover the SIMO Series Linear Actuators

  • What does SIMO stand for? Simultaneous Integral Milling Operation
  • How does SIMO work? SIMO uses multiple cutters and mills in a synchronized operation to machine extrusions in one quick pass, eliminating hours of painstaking cutting/machining that other extruding processes would require. This precise machining method produces linear rails with 6 times better straightness, 2 times less twist, and 2 times better flatness than competitive linear motion systems based on extrusions.
  • What are the advantages of SIMO manufacturing? The SIMO process has been shown to hold tolerances of ± 0.001"/0.025mm throughout the length of the rail. This provides engineers with an extremely accurate length product and ensures quick installation and alignment.
  • What are the costs of SIMO? SIMO enabled rails offer repeatable linear motion at affordable prices. The one-minute video above shows how machined precision is available at extrusion prices because of the patented SIMO process.
  • Where can you find SIMO products? SIMO qualified linear rails are used in a range of PBC Linear product families including Integral-V® Technology (IVT), Uni-Guide® Linear Slides, Linear Actuator Technology, and the SIMO Series Linear Motion Platform.
Linear Actuator Extrusions

Swaging process

The swaging process and the method developed for manufacturing embedded raceways ensures the pre-engineered alignment of parallel rails while guaranteeing the security of the hardened steel raceways throughout the life of the unit. This process combines aluminum and steel to create a lightweight, precise, and durable solution for longer rails. All of the critical edges of the rails are then cut using the SIMO process, making them more rigid, accurate, and repeatable. This pre-engineered alignment lowers the cost of components, which in turn lowers the cost of assembly time and overall installation cost. Combined, these processes allow PBC Linear to offer more efficient and cost-effective products and services.

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Cite This Page
Source: PBC Linear - “Aluminum Extrusion Builds Precision SIMO® Linear Actuators”
https://pbclinear.com/blogs/blog/simo-process-overview
Last updated: August 2026