Ball screw linear actuators combine a programmable stepper motor with a precision ball screw and recirculating ball nut to move and accurately position loads along a linear axis. Hardened steel balls roll along the helical grooves between the screw shaft and ball nut, replacing the sliding thread contact of conventional lead screws with low-friction rolling motion. This design provides mechanical transmission efficiency above 90%, reducing the torque required to generate equivalent thrust compared with conventional lead screw actuators. Screw lead determines travel per revolution: smaller leads generally provide greater thrust and finer positioning resolution, while larger leads allow higher linear speeds at the same motor RPM (revolutions per minute).
PBC Linear® offers miniature ball screw linear actuators through the BE Series and BS Series, both using external-nut configurations. The motor rotates the ball screw while the non-rotating external ball nut travels axially to move a guided load. External linear guidance supports the load and prevents nut rotation. Both series offer standard, off-the-shelf configurations, while the BE Series provides additional options for motor sizes, screw diameters, leads, nut styles, journals, and accuracy grades.
BE Series ball screw actuators are available with NEMA 08, 11, 14, 17, and 23 stepper motors for applications requiring controlled speed, thrust, and accurate positioning. Standard configurations combine predefined motor lengths, ball screw dimensions, leads, and external nut styles for straightforward product selection. Customizable assemblies allow engineers to specify additional motor and screw combinations, mounting dimensions, and machined journals.
A compatible motor controller regulates position, travel distance, speed, acceleration, timing, direction, and motor revolutions. Multiple motor lengths and screw configurations allow engineers to balance available torque, axial thrust, positioning resolution, and linear speed. Gothic-arch ball grooves and optional preload improve rigidity and reduce backlash, supporting accurate, repeatable positioning.
The BE Series is suited for automation, machine building, medical equipment, laboratory systems, electronics manufacturing, and industrial positioning applications requiring compact, high-efficiency linear motion. The actuators are RoHS compliant, IP40 rated, use Class B motor insulation, and operate from -20°C to +50°C.
Clck to read more about the BS Series Miniature Ball Screw Actuators. Click to shop for Ball Screw Actuators of both lines. Read on for the features of BE Series actuators:
Performance Benefits
- High Transmission Efficiency: Over 90% efficiency significantly reduces the required operational torque.
- Variety of Options: Available in five NEMA frame sizes with multiple motor lengths and a wide range of lead options for tailored application fit.
- Innovative Design: Combines the technologies of hybrid stepper motors with integrated ball screws and nuts for compact and efficient solutions.
- High Torque and Precision: Engineered to provide high torque and precision, fulfilling the needs of demanding applications.
- High-Speed Capabilities: Ideal for high-speed applications, providing a high-quality, innovative solution for rapid operations.
- Flexible Configuration: Offers a variety of nut options within various motor frame sizes, allowing for customization according to specific requirements.
- Easy Rotary to Linear Conversion: The advanced design makes it simpler to transfer rotary motion into linear motion efficiently.
Grade 5, 7, or 10 Accuracy Available
Contact an Application Engineer for ordering a specific grade at application.engineering@pbclinear.com.
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