Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are end stops available for support rail assemblies?
PBC Linear does not offer end stops for any Round Shaft Technology.
Are Simplicity bearings FDA approved?
Standard Simplicity bearings with the Frelon liner and anodized aluminum housing are not considered FDA “approved.” However, they are FDA compliant when installed properly. If the food item is not yet packaged, Simplicity bearings are compliant as long as there is no contact with the food item. If the bearings are located over the unpackaged food item, there should be some sort of shield between the bearings and the food. If the bearings are located away to the side or below the unpackaged food, no shielding is necessary. If the food item is already packaged, there is no issue. The Frelon W liner is suitable for food contact.
Can I use Simplicity bearings on cold rolled steel shafting?
Simplicity Frelon lined bearings are designed to run on shafting with a surface finish of 8-12 RMS for best performance, but can accept up to 16 RMS. Rougher shafting can be used, but both bearing and shafting will wear at accelerated rates and binding may occur. Likewise, shafting that is smoother than 8 RMS will result in accelerated wear because the Frelon will not be able to accomplish the transfer process.
Can you interchange Simplicity Plain Bearings to other manufacturer's (or part number) bearings?
Simplicity linear plain bearings are made to industry standards and can offer a dimensional interchange to most other manufacturers’ linear bearings. This comparison applies primarily to ID, OD, and length. Differences such as distance between snap ring grooves, materials, or load ratings should be addressed according to the customer's specific application. It is the customer's responsibility to verify proper fit for their application.
I need a system with low friction. Which PBC product offers the lowest coefficient of friction?
A rolling element, such as ball bearing or roller, will offer a lower coefficient of friction than a sliding element (plain bearing).  There are many factors to consider in addition to coefficient of friction, so it’s important for PBC to understand all aspects of the application to offer proper guidance.
How thick is the Frelon liner?
The thickness has been optimized to provide long life for almost all applications.  The exact thickness is confidential.
I require a flange mount larger than 1" diameter, what are my options?
For an off-the-shelf item, the SDS, DDS, and PAC die sets offer options for a flange mount in diameters up to 2".
What is the average life of a bearing?
Basic life or L-10 as defined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA), is the life that 90% of a sufficiently large group of apparently identical bearings can be expected to reach or exceed. The median or average life, sometimes called Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF), is about five times the calculated basic rating life. PBC Linear has a broad range of linear motion solutions and a detailed approach to calculating life.
Is there a brake for Simplicity pillow blocks?
PBC does not offer a brake for the Simplicity pillow blocks.
The bearing plugs on my square bearing seems loose, can I use Loctite?
You may use removable thread locker to hold the adjustable bearing plugs in position on the square bearing.
Why do the metric pillow block housings list one bolt size in the catalog, but the CAD model measures differently?
Referencing the catalog, threaded portion that extends from the bottom surface of the pillow block and refers to the thread listed in the table. This is intended for a fastener coming from the bottom and threading into the block from the mounting framework.

The counter bored part of the mounting hole originates from the top, or open side of the block, and this mounting direction is intended for a smaller diameter fastener installed from this side of the pillow block. This ensures the fastener has enough clearance to go all the way thru the threaded section of the block without interference, and thread into the mounting framework.
Do the seals add to the overall length of Simplicity Bearings?
Seals are installed into grooves machined into the ID of the bearing, therefore the overall length of the bearing is not affected.
What do the terms accuracy and repeatability mean?
  • Accuracy refers to the ability to achieve a commanded position
  • Repeatability refers to the ability to go to any given spot in a consistent grouping
For more information please see our blog: Factors Which Affect Accuracy & Repeatability
What are the press fit/slip fit dimensions for Simplicity bearings?
PBC Linear recommends use of the compensated ID bearings for press fit applications. Inch (PS & PSF) and metric (PSM & PSFM) sleeve bearings have fit info in the dimensional tables specific to each particular series in the Round Shaft Technology catalog.
What are the velocity and acceleration limits of a Simplicity Plain Bearing product?
For a Simplicity Plain Bearing product the velocity and acceleration is rated in terms of speed or “PV” — this is a calculated value based on “P”resure (or load) multiplied by “V”elocity (speed) to determine the acceptable speed of the bearing in a given application.

Please see our Round Shaft Technology catalog for specific technical specifications.
What does the 2:1 ratio for cantilevered loads mean?
In general terms, if the load or driving force is located (1) off centerline of the bearing(s), or (2) in the line of movement but some distance from the bearings, this distance must not be greater than twice the distance of bearing separation on the same shaft.  Or, if only one bearing is used, the distance must not be greater than twice the length of the bearing itself.  Binding will occur if the 2:1 ratio is exceeded.  Besides proper bearing separation, another method of preventing binding is to use a counterbalance. Please see our blog Cantilevered Loads and the 2:1 Ratio for more detail
What effect will “X” chemical have on Simplicity bearings?
Frelon J has almost universal chemical inertness. Only molten sodium and fluorine at elevated temperatures and pressures show any signs of attack. FrelonGOLD has fillers that can be attacked by certain harsh chemicals. The standard anodized aluminum shell has good chemical resistance in most industrial applications. The optional 316 stainless steel shell has excellent chemical and corrosion resistance in most industrial applications. Check the chemical reaction chart for specific chemicals. The information provided is for reference only – the user must test specific applications.
What is L-10 life?
The L-10 (L10) life is the number of hours in service that 90% of bearings will survive. Or, conversely, 10% of bearings will have failed in the L-10 number of service hours. L10 life is the preferred term in specifying bearing life and is defined by the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA). PBC Linear provides load ratings on all our products in order to calculate L10.
What is the coefficient of friction (COF) for Simplicity bearings?
The coefficient of friction for filled Teflon can range from .125 to .4 depending on the fillers used.  FrelonGOLD has an average COF of .125, while FrelonJ has an average COF of .12
What is the difference between the 2-sided and 4-sided square bearings?
The 2-sided bearing has only 2 sides with adjustable plugs, the other 2 sides have a Frelon pad. The 4-sided bearing has all 4 sides with bearing plugs.
What is the dynamic load rating for a Frelon-lined bearing?
Plain bearings do not have a dynamic load rating, but are rated by their limiting PV, which is a combination of load over a given surface area and the velocity.

P – pressure or load in pounds per square inc (psi) or kilograms per square centimeter (kg/cm2).
V – velocity or surface speed in feet per minute (fpm or sfm) or meters per minute (m/min).
PV – pressure velocity value, P x V

NOTE: All three parameters must be met by an application for the bearing to perform properly. Max P times Max V does NOT equal Max PV: if one increases, the other must decrease in order to not exceed Max PV.
For a more in-depth look at PV, please see our blog: Calculating PV for a Plain Bearing
What is the max RPM (rotary application) for Simplicity?
Simplicity bearings are designed specifically for linear motion, and are not the ideal choice for high speed rotary applications.  However, when applied properly, Simplicity bearings will work very well in rotary applications. Stationary rotary applications do not allow the heat to be spread over an extended area – it is retained in the ID of the bearing, thus limiting speed and load.  - 40 sfm for precision ID - 140 sfm for compensated ID
What is the operating temperature for the Square bearings?
−400° F to 400° F (−240° C to 204° C)
What is the temperature range for Simplicity?
−400° F to 400° F (−240° C to 204° C)
What is the thread size for the lube fitting on bearings and housings that have the lube option?
¼-28 UNF thread
What lubrication is recommended for use with Frelon?
Recommended lubricants include:  way-lube oils, lightweight petroleum based oils and greases, or 3-in-1 type oils.  Lubrication can greatly increase the performance of a bearing when properly applied, but please refer to the catalog for detailed information.  
What seal materials are available?
Inch series seal materials include Polymod, urethane, and Viton.  Metric seals are available in urethane only.
What’s the difference between compensated and self-aligning?
Compensated refers to the ID of the bearing. Self-aligning refers to the capability of the bearing within a housing to “rock” in all directions to allow for some shaft deflection and misalignment.
What’s the difference between precision and compensated ID?
Simplicity bearings are available with two classes of running clearance.  Precision (FL) has the tightest running clearance of approximately .001” (.025mm).  This class is ideal for applications that require high precision.  Compensated (FLC) has additional clearance built into the ID of the bearing to .003” (.0381mm).  The FLC helps to accommodate or “compensate” for slight misalignments.
When I have both a standard and compensated fit Simplicity bearing how can I tell which is which when the bearings are not marked and no longer have the packaging?
A compensated fit bearing is looser fit to the shaft diameter, a simple method of checking would be to place both precision and compensated bearings on the shaft the compensated bearing should feel loose by comparison to the standard precision fit bearing.
Where can I find the housing bore tolerances which should be utilized for installation of Simplicity plain bearings?
Refer to Pages 138 - 141 (Installation Simplicity Linear Plain Bearings) in the appendix of the RST (Round Shaft Technology) Catalog
Why am I experiencing sticks, slips, and stutters using plain bearings?
As it relates to linear plain bearing technology stick-slip is often described as a temporary cycle of alternating rest and motion.  If this type of motion is repeatedly observed at the same location, then it is likely that an unknown force is acting upon the system at that location. The most common external forces are caused by misalignment or deflection of the linear shafts or an imperfection in the rail which can be caused by damage. Please see our blog Cantilevered Loads and the 2:1 Ratio for more detail.
Does PBC Linear offer ball bearings that are corrosion resistant?
Corrosion resistance for recirculating ball bearings is tricky, and PBC does not offer linear ball bearings in stainless steel or other corrosion resistant material. Reference the Round Shaft Technology catalog for available materials. PBC Linear does offer a plain bearing solution with a standard anodized aluminum housing that stands up well to most situations. For more extreme environments, PBC Linear offers the option of a 316 stainless steel housing. Combine this with our available 316 stainless shafting and your application should become corrosion resistant.
Does the EPK25G flange mount have seals?
Seals are integral on all PBC linear ball bearing products.
Does the IPP series of pillow blocks have seals?
Seals are integral on all PBC linear ball bearing products.
Is the IP-G series of linear ball bearings self-aligning?
No, the IP-G series has a straight OD. The IPS series is self-aligning.
What is the temperature range for linear ball bearings?
−4° F to 176° F (−20° C to 80° C)
Do you offer 1566 steel linear shafting?
PBC offers 1060 steel linear shafting, which is very similar to 1566.
Does PBC Linear offer hollow round shafting?
PBC linear only offers solid round shafting, however, we do have a unique alternative in Simplicity Square Shafting.  This shafting has a unique bearing style with adjustable and replaceable plugs which allow for a completely custom fit. More details on this great product can be found in our catalog.
For Simplicity 60 Plus shafting, can you provide a certification showing the exact depth of my case hardness for each shaft ordered?
When producing shafting we run each full length bar through the hardening process, where we have a minimum hardness depth that we assure is maintained for each full bar.  We do not however measure and record the maximum depth of hardness as a standard process. 
How are the load ratings for SRA aluminum support rails calculated?
The load ratings PBC provides are based on the bearing used on the Shaft Rail Assembly, NOT the shaft and rail.
Is Simplicity 60 Plus 440 stainless steel shafting magnetic?
400 series stainless steel is magnetic because it has a high amount of carbon content.  This allows it to have some corrosion resistance, while steel being able to achieve a case hardness.  If you are looking for the most corrosion resistant series of stainless steel please check out our 316 stainless steel which has very little carbon content.  The downside with 300 series is that it can not be hardened making it a very poor choice when using any rolling element bearing.
I was asked to supply the “Y” dimension when ordering my length product – what does that mean?
On all length products that have mounting holes, there is typically a standard hole-to-hole pattern defined by “X” in our literature.  When PBC cuts these products to the customer’s length specification, we need to know where the customer wants that hole pattern to start relative to the cut end.
What are the approximate yield and tensile strength estimates for PBC Linear Case 60 Plus C1060 steel shafting?
  Case Core
Tensile 335,000 psi 100,000 psi
Yield 250,000 psi 75,000 psi

Note: Case hardness depth will vary by shaft diameter.  Minimum case hardness depths specified on page 45 for inch series and  page 82 for metric series in the RST (Round shaft Technology) Catalog
What are the approximate yield and tensile strength estimates for PBC Linear Case 50 Plus 440C stainless steel shafting?
  Case Core
Tensile 341,500 psi 113,805 psi
Yield 182,750 psi 60,900 psi

Note: Case hardness depth will vary by shaft diameter.  Minimum case hardness depths specified on page 45 for inch series and  page 82 for metric series in the RST (Round shaft Technology) Catalog
What do surface finish terms RMS and Ra mean?
RMS means root mean square which is an average of peaks and valleys of a material surface.  The square root of the average height deviations from the mean line/surface squared.  Ra stands for roughness average and is simply the average height across the microscopic peaks and valleys.  The linear shafting that PBC Linear manufactures has a surface finish of 8-12 Ra.  This is the recommended range for all Simplicity plain and Simplicity ball products.
What grade of aluminum is the Feather Shaft/Feather Rail?
It is 6000 series aluminum, tempered to T6.
Are the rollers replaceable on the IVT carriages?
Rollers are permanently installed to ensure accuracy and load capabilities and are not replaceable.
Are the rollers replaceable on the Redi-Rail sliders?
Rollers are permanently installed to ensure accuracy and load capabilities and are not replaceable.
Can Hevi-Rail be welded?
Hevi-Rail is a low carbon rail product and can be welded under good standard MIG welding practices.

Yes. Bearings with pre-welded flange plates are only capable of the system max. Static load capacities shown in the CRT (Cam Roller Technology) catalog. The actual bearings are rated for higher load ratings if configured without the pre-welded flange plate and utilized with customer supplied Hardened Rail HRC 55 (minimum 2.54 mm depth provided).
 
Is it correct that the version of the Hevi-Rail bearing without the welded flange plate, has a higher load capacity than the version with the welded flange plate?

Yes, that is correct. The Welded Bearing/Flange Plate Assembly is rated to accomodate up to the System Maximum Static Load Ratings as published in the CRT (Cam Roller Technology) catalog. These same "System Maximum Static Load Ratings” also apply to the maximum load rating that the Mild Steel U-Channels and I-Channels can accommodate on a per. Roller basis. These are the limiting factors in the system.

Can you replace just the rollers on a Redi-Rail slider?
No. Redi-Rail underwent a design change in 2006 from a threaded shaft attachment to the current solid stud shafts that are pressed in.
 
Does PBC Linear offer heat treated versions of Hevi-Rail channels?
No,  PBC Linear only offers Hevi-Rail channels in mild steel.
 
A word of caution: If you’re considering outsourcing Heat Treatment of Hevi-Rail Channels, discuss, review and potentially test samples with a Heat Treatment Specialist for best methods of Heat Treatment.  Improper Heat Treatment methods may result in material distortion, bowing and stress fracturing of Hevi-Rail Channel.
 
The S450J2 MOD. material can be heat treated, but usually requires a re-straightening after heat treatment due to warping from the heat treatment if the whole bar is heat treated.
 
Preferred Method - Surface hardening with induction heating with a mechanical clamping or guiding of the bar through the induction coils is what others use that prevents warping.
 
Improper Heat Treatment of Hevi-Rail channels can lead to bowing - twist distortion and stress fracturing of channel.
Does PBC Linear provide wrenches for the Commercial Rail and why would I need one?
Yes, PBC Linear has wrenches available for the Commercial Rail. Commercial Rail has an adjustable bearing on each slider allowing the user to customize the fit for every application. You may find the wrenches here.
 
Does Redi-Rail have a reference surface to aid in rail alignment?
The Redi-Rail product provides a reference notch along the length of the rail to indicate the reference edge.

Reference Surface
How can I tell the difference between compensated and precision Mini-Rail carriages?
Compensated carriages will have a dimple, or mark, on the underside.
How do I protect Hevi-Rail products from oxidation and corrosion?

PBC Linear suggests sand blasting or bead blasting Hevi-Rail channels to remove any signs of oxidation or rust that may have been acquired during shipment and storage. Then follow-up with one of the following coating suggestions:

  • PBC Linear suggests priming, painting and / or powder coating the Hevi-Rail Channels. Surfaces on the Hevi-Rail Channel surfaces that are considered Roller Contact surfaces, should be masked prior to applying the coating. Roller contact surfaces must remain bare steel surfaces, but coated with NLGI #2 or Grade 3 Grease to minimize oxidation and corrosion.
  • A Hard Chrome Plating or Armoloy (TDC) Thin Dense Chrome Plating can be applied by the customers plating resource to the Hevi-Rail Channels for oxidation and corrosion resistance. An NLGI #2 or Grade 3 Grease should still be applied to the Rollers and Roller contact surfaces of the Rail to increase life expectancy.
How do you mount Hevi-Rail bearings?
Unless purchased as the bearing and flange plate assembly, the bearings must be welded to the framework.
How do you mount the PAC2247?
It must be welded or clamped in place.
Is Hevi-Rail available in stainless steel?
No, Hevi-Rail components are available in carbon steel only.
Is IVT available with stainless steel rollers and raceways?
The raceways are stainless steel as a standard. However, rollers are not available in stainless steel.
Is the load rating for Redi-Rail sliders per slider or per pair?
Redi-Rail sliders are rated per slider.
Is V-Guide rail hardened?
Yes, the V-Guide rail is induction hardened on the roller bearing “V” running surface only to approximately 55Rc and the lower mounting surface of the rail remains soft to provide a machineable surface for installation.
We have Redi Rail sliders with a threaded stud shaft, and we recently ordered some more. The ones we received don’t have replaceable rollers. We’d really like the same style as the ones we already had, are they still available?
Redi Rail underwent a design change a few years ago in which the threaded stud shaft was replaced by a press fit version onto which the roller was secured by orbit forming the end.
What are the Hevi-Rail mounting plate holes intended for?
Plate Hole Reference
What do the arrows on the Redi-Rail slider mean?
The arrows point in the direction that the radial load should be applied.  The Redi-Rail slider has three rollers, two of which are in contact with one side of the rail and the middle roller is in contact with the other side.  Orienting the load with the arrows offers the greatest load capacity.  
What is the average C.O.F. range for a IVT Carriage?
The rolling resistance of the Carriage Roller Bearings is .008~.015, the C.O.F. can be affected by pre-load and operating environments.
What is the average cof of the LPM slider/rail system?
.200-.300
What is the operating temperature for Hevi-Rail?
14° F to 176° F (−10° C to 80° C)
What is the operating temperature for Mini-Rail?
−32° F to 176° F (0° C to 80° C)
What sizes of Simplicity bearings have the seal option?
Inch series 1/2" thru 4", ISO metric 20mm thru 80mm.
What is the operating temperature for Redi-Rail?
14° F to 176° F (−10° C to 80° C)
What is the operating temperature for the Hardened Crown Roller series?
14° F to 176° F (−10° C to 80° C)
What is the operating temperature for the low profile Mini-Rail?
−30° F to 150° F (−34° C to 65° C)
What is the operating temperature for V-Rail?
14° F to 176° F (−10° C to 80° C)
What is the operating temperature for Integral-V Technology?
14° F to 176° F (−10° C to 80° C)
What kind of lubrication should be used on Hevi-Rail?
To optimize performance, PBC Linear recommends a lubrication expert should be contacted to review applications, however a general purpose grease such as the Shell Alvania #3 or equivalent is typical in lieu of application-specific lubrication.
What kind of screws are needed for Redi-Rail?
Redi-Rail requires Button Head Cap Screws (BHCS).
What size T-Nuts fit the Uni-Guide?
D075: Fath 096286; D100 &D125: 80/20 3279
Why does the CRT (Cam Roller Technology) catalog identify Hevi-Rail with multiple Load Ratings for each size product?

Each Size Hevi-Rail product is specified with System Max. Static Load Ratings per. Roller for both Radial & Axial Load Capacities which shouldn’t be exceeded when using the Mild Steel U & I Channels that PBC Linear offers.  This System Max. Static Load Rating takes into account operating the Roller on a soft Mild Steel Rail.

Each Size Hevi-Rail Product is also specified with Maximum Bearing Loads (Static and Dynamic) per. Roller which requires the usage of Heat Treated Channels that PBC Linear doesn’t offer.  Note:  Maximum Bearing Loads achievable when used with a hardened rail HRC 55 minimum 2.54mm deep.

Why is the load rating of the bearing much greater than the load rating of the system?
The load ratings for the rollers are based on using a hardened rail of 55 Rc minimum.  The rails offered by PBC are hot rolled, mild structural steel and are not hardened.  Therefore, the load ratings are limited by the softer rail material.  PBC does not offer hardened rails.
Why is there a discrepancy between the height of the V-Guide Rail in your catalog and the actual height of the V-Guide?
The overall height dimension given in the catalog is not a physical dimension that can be measured.  It is the theoretical point where the two planes would intersect.  Thus the dimension given in drawing is for Reference Only, and the actual rail will be slightly smaller.  Keep this in mind as you check the height or the rail during inspection, or as you are designing to meet a specific vertical location requirement.
Can lead screws be used in harsh environments?
Yes. Utililzing the self lubircating properties of our PTFE coated lead screws and polymer nuts optimizes use in harsh environments that are typically detremental to rolling element ball screw/nut options.
What is back driving?
As a rolling element ball screw/nuts typically will back drive when a thrust load is applied to the nut.  Conversly lead screws natural frictional resistance can minimize backdriving by following a good general rule of thumb, that in order to help prevent back driving selecting a screw lead less than 1/3 the diameter of the screw will generally prevent back driving of the nut. 
What is backlash and how does this affect my linear system?
Backlash is the amount of play or slop in a linear motion system.  PBC Linear offers a constant force technology nut which limits the amount of backlash in a screw driven scenario.  PBC Linear also offers several belt driven systems that offer some advantages over screw driven systems but backlash is not one of those.
What is column loading?
Column loading or axial thrust as it is applied to a screw, is the amount of axial force a lead screw assembly can withstand in order to maintain proper performance prior to buckling or excessive deflection. 
What is lead angle?
Lead Angle is the angle made by the screw pitch helix with a plane perpendicular to the center axis of the screw. 
What is lead screw PV (pressure velocity)?
For lead screw/nut assemblies the sliding friction between the screw and nut will generate heat, excessive heat generation can cause premeature wear and failure of the leadscrew nut.
What is pitch diameter?
Pitch diameter is the diamter of a theorectical cylinder that passes therough the threads in such a way that the distance between the thread crests and thread roots are equal. Pitch diameter is commonly measured by using approriately sized pins to rest witin the thread flanks, and then subtracting the pin diamter times 2 from the measurement taken across the three thread wire pins as illustrated in the product catalog. 
What is the material composition of the lead screw nuts?
PBC Linear uses a proprietary blend of polymers and PTFE to create a self-lubricating, low coefficient of friction nut.  The proprietary blend is treated as confidential and the intellectual property of PBC Linear.  As such, we do not disclose the specifics about the material composition.
What is the operating temperature for the lead screw nut?
-40° F to 248° F (−10° C to 120° C)
What is the straightness of the lead screws?
Lead screws are available in lengths from 2" to 65" with a standard straightness of .003"/ft.
Are T-nuts used for the MTB 042 actuator?
We use low profile nuts in place of T-nuts due to the small profile of the slots.  The part number for the nut is 6100504 and it utilizes M5 screws (length dependent on your item being clamped).
Are T-nuts used for the MTB 055 (and MTC042) actuator?
We utilize two T-nuts, a long and short length…both which fit the side extrusion and top carriage slots.  The short style is part number 6100443.  The long style is part number 6100429.
Is the PLA only supplied with a ball screw?
The PLA is offered with the choice of three types of screws, a ball screw, lead screw, and acme screw.  These are offered in various select screw leads.
What are the most common drive type(s) for linear actuators?
The most common types include actuators driven by a belt, screw (ball, lead or acme) or by air (pneumatic).  Other types of actuators include hydraulic, rack and pinion and linear motor driven.
What is a linear actuator?
A linear actuator is a device which converts rotary motion (such as from an electric motor) into linear motion and then applys this force in a linear manner.
What is the operating temperature for MR20LS/MS?
−32° F to 176° F (0° C to 80° C)
What is the operating temperature for MTB?
−32° F to 176° F (0° C to 80° C)
What is the pitch diameter for the SIMO belt drives?
On the UGT Horizontal belt drive, the pulley pitch diameter is 25.5mm (12.75mm radius); On the UGA Vertical Belt drive, the pulley pitch diameter is 20.7mm (10.35mm radius).
What is the screw lead and diameter on a 2LRPS-24-056-BR0?
.250" lead, 1.5" diameter.
What is the typical accuracy of a timing belt drive?
It is really dependent on the belt and pulley construction, but a general rule of thumb would be 0.004" (100 μm) - 0.008" (200 μm).
  • Our MTB series belt driven actuators allow 0.004” (100 μm) for belt drive positional error accuracy deviation.
  • Our UG series belt driven actuators allow 0.008” (200 μm) for belt drive positional error accuracy deviation.
What material is the seal strip made of on the MTB and PLA?
A 400 series stainless steel to make it work with the magnetic strips along the opening.
What T-nuts are used for the MTB 080?
We utilize two T-nuts.  Part number 6100435 is a slot size 6 and fits the slots in the carriage.  Part number 6100436 is a slot size 8 and fits the top & bottom slots on the extrusion body.
With reference to the MTB actuators and when driving two in parallel via connecting shaft, are the drive shafts timed (orientated to a certain position/angle) to the pulleys?
Currently, the female (hollow) shaft version of the actuator is not timed between the hollow shaft and the pulley. But with the male shaft version, the internal and external keyways are manufactured at the same time, hence keeping time/orientation between the shaft and pulley.  In the future, the female shaft will be manufactured with the external and internal keyways as timed.
Are PBC Linear products REACH compliant?
Yes, you can find our certification here.
Are PBC Linear products RoHS compliant?
Yes, you can find our certification here.
Does PBC Linear offer a curved track?
No, we do not offer a curved track.
How do I receive the CAD file for my part number?
Go to our Configure & Quote page, build your part number, put first name, last name, company and email address in CAD options and Contact Info at the bottom of the configurator. Hit finish and the file(s) and summaries will be emailed to you.
I am interested in the corrosion resistance of your aluminum components and slides.
Standard Simplicity® products use aluminum alloy, which is known to have the best corrosion resistance of the high strength aluminum alloys. The sulfuric bath anodizing and nickel acetate sealing provide the best corrosion resistance available in anodized coatings. They can withstand a rigorous 14-day exposure in a 5% salt spray solution at 96°F per military specifications without significant damage. With the coating intact, it is considered to be inert in most fluids with a pH value between 5 and 8. Hard coat anodizing provides the same chemical resistance but is applied to a .002" thickness, providing a more durable surface that will stand up to greater abuse. However, if the coating is penetrated, the resistance is reduced.

For more information please see our Linear Motion Design in Washdown white paper.
Is there a sales rep or distributor in my area?
Please visit our Sales & Support page.
Looking for product specific dimensions, CAD models or drawings?
Dimensions and specifications can be found in the specific product catalog - these are available for download from the PBC website. In addition, CAD models are available for download using PBC Linear's online product configurators.
What is your Cage Code?
79879
What is your Export Control Classification Number (ECCN)?
EAR99
Where do I send my payment?
PBC Linear, Remittance Processing, PO Box 7265, Rockford, IL 61126
How do I confirm bank payment information?
To set up your ACH/wire transfer for PBC Linear, go to the Payments with Electronic Transfer Page to help complete your transaction. There you will find instructions for both domestic and international transactions. Remember, wiring bank fees are the responsibility of the payor not the payee. All payments are to be in U.S. dollars.
Where do I send my purchase order?
Where do I send my quote request?
Are there different size options for the ASRS?
No. There is currently there one size available.
Can I add my own cart or trays for the ASRS?
Yes, but this will require additional programming of each shelf height.
Can the ASRS be moved?
Yes. This system can be moved with a pallet jack.
Does the ASRS shelf have a brake installed?
The shelf utilizes a lead screw that will only drive if power is applied.
Does the system require a pneumatic line?
No air line is needed for the system. However, the cobot setup may require air lines.
How long does it take to change jobs when operating the ASRS?
The ASRS job turnover is equal to however fast an operator can swap out trays and a rack. 15 minutes is standard with all the necessary equiptment (new grippers and trays).
How long does it take to install the ASRS?
1-2 days depending on the application.
Is the ASRS compatible with my CNC/machine?
Our system works with any CNC/machine and can be tied into functions such as chuck close, cycle start, etc.
Is the ASRS safe and collaborative?
Yes. The system is enclosed with light curtains on the openings.
What are other ASRS use cases besides a CNC?
Any application that a cobot/robot currently can do.
What are the dimensions of the ASRS?
72 in x 58 in x 75 in including the rack 54 in x 58 in x 75 in without the rack (L x W x H).
What is included in the ASRS package?
The ASRS, a ready rack, and 17 trays.
What is the expected ROI on an ASRS?
The current trays can hold 50 lb. There is no height limit but we recommend nothing over 18 inches.
What is the lead time on the purchase of an ASRS?
8-12 weeks.
What is the maximum tray weight and max part height for the ASRS?
The current trays can hold 50 lb. There is no height limit but we recommend nothing over 18 inches.
What is the power requirement for the ASRS?
220V Single Phase with a 30A Recepticle.
What is the repeatability/accuracy of the ASRS?
The repeatability of the ASRS will depend on the repeatability of the cobot/robot.
What is the shop rating of the ASRS? Will a dirty shop or coolant residue affect preformance?
All electrical components are shielded from outside contaminants. Light coolant exposer will have no effect on the system.
What is the weight of the ASRS?
The entire system weighs near 1500 lb.
What robots/cobots is the ASRS compatible with?
Any robot/cobot with 2 open i/o ports and a reach of at least 800 mm.
What size of pallet jack is needed to lift the ASRS?
Most Standard US pallet jacks will be able to move the ASRS.