PBC Linear delivers linear motion systems engineered for mission-critical aerospace and defense applications in harsh conditions where reliability, durability, and maintenance-free performance matter most. From ground-based support equipment to airborne systems, these solutions help guide, support, position, and control motion in environments exposed to shock, vibration, wide temperature swings, contamination, and heavy loads. Below are three examples of how PBC Linear products support demanding aerospace and defense motion requirements.
Gun Mount Support System
A gun mount support system is a linear motion assembly designed to stabilize and guide mounted weapon systems while absorbing repeated recoil forces. Simplicity® plain bearing technology is well suited for this application because the self-lubricating bonded Frelon® liner helps dampen vibration, reduce shock, and maintain smooth motion under heavy impact loads. With a wide operating temperature range of -400°F to +400°F (-240°C to +204°C), these bearings support reliable performance across harsh field conditions, including heat, cold, dirt, and contamination. The plain bearing design also avoids rolling elements, helping the system tolerate debris and sustained shock without catastrophic ball-bearing failure.
Telescoping Armament Racking System
Telescoping armament racking systems use Hevi-Rail® heavy-duty combined bearing and profile rail systems to manually extend weapon racks for faster loading, unloading, and access. In this application, Hevi-Rail® components are installed into the internal racking framework to support high cantilevered loads while allowing the rack to telescope out smoothly and reliably in demanding defense environments. Together, Simplicity® plain bearings and Hevi-Rail® guide systems provide rugged linear motion solutions for defense applications that require recoil absorption, vibration damping, heavy-load support, and dependable operation in harsh conditions.
Custom SIMO® Extruded Rail Systems
Custom SIMO® extruded linear rail systems provide long-travel linear guidance where accuracy, straightness, and easy installation are critical. Cut-to-length SIMO® extrusions can be precision machined to match application requirements, with tight tolerances down to ±0.001 in (±0.025 mm) for a precise fit. These custom rail systems are ideal for aerospace and defense equipment that requires durable, accurate motion over extended travel lengths. By combining custom extrusion profiles with precision machining, SIMO® rail systems help reduce installation complexity while supporting consistent alignment and repeatable motion.