Compact lead screw actuators are motor- or hand-driven linear guides that use screw diameters of 10mm or less to provide controlled linear motion in space-limited assemblies. With a profile height of only 23mm, PBC Linear Compact Series actuators are designed for applications where standard actuator frames are too large but smooth, repeatable travel is still required.
Lead screw models use precision-rolled 300 Series stainless steel screws with a PTFE coating to reduce friction, wear, and flaking. Available screw diameters are 6mm, 8mm, and 10mm. Miniature ball screw versions use hardened 1050 steel screws up to 8mm in diameter for efficient rolling motion. Constant Force™ anti-backlash nuts maintain preload as the nut wears, reducing play and supporting repeatable positioning.
Guidance options include profile rails for greater rigidity, speed, accuracy, and cantilevered-load support, or Gliding Surface Technology™ with self-lubricating FrelonGOLD® under-carriage liners for quiet, maintenance-free travel, vibration damping, and reliable operation in dirty environments. Drive options include NEMA 17 and NEMA 23 motors, manual hand knobs, and stub shafts for customer-supplied drive systems.
Together, these options make Compact Series lead screw actuators a flexible choice for small automation systems, positioning stages, lab equipment, packaging machinery, and other compact motion control applications.
- Screws: CNC precision rolled, lead accuracy of 0.003”/ft (76 μm/300 mm)
- Lead Screw Material: 300 series stainless steel with PTFE coating
- Ball Screw Material: 1050 hardened steel
- Anti-backlash: Constant Force™ nut for consistent preload
- Drive options: NEMA 17/NEMA 23 motors, manual hand knobs, or stub shafts
- Car and rail cross section: 23 mm x 55 mm
- Maximum horizontal payload: 1,202 lb (5,350 N)
- Maximum stroke length: 1,016 mm (40 in)
- Covered options available to protect the system from debris
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a compact lead screw actuator?
A compact lead screw actuator is a space-saving linear guide with a power source that turns a small-diameter lead screw to move a guided carriage in a straight line. Drive options include a motor, manual hand knob, or a stub shaft that is to be connected to an external drive system.
What is an anti-backlash nut?
An anti-backlash nut reduces free movement between a lead screw and nut, maintaining pressure against the screw threads as wear occurs, helping preserve repeatable positioning.
