Ball Screw and Lead Screw Assemblies

Ball screw and lead screw linear assemblies are precision linear motion systems that use a rotating threaded rod and matching threaded, non-rotating nut to create controlled, repeatable linear movement. They can be configured with NEMA motors, hand cranks, or hand-adjustment knobs.

Ball screw assemblies use recirculating steel balls inside cylindrical or flanged nuts to convert rotary motion into efficient linear motion. This rolling contact design supports higher speeds, longer service life, and consistent lead accuracy along the full screw length, making ball screws a strong choice for applications that require precision, durability, and smooth performance.

Lead screw assemblies are a more cost-effective motion solution that use a threaded screw and matching nut to convert rotary motion into linear movement, often with PTFE coatings to reduce friction and flaking. They are ideal for applications where simplicity, reliability, and controlled positioning are the priority. They are available with Round, Triangular, or Rectangular Constant Force Anti-Backlash Nuts, which are designed specifically for lead screw systems and are not compatible with ball screws. These anti-backlash nut designs maintain low backlash throughout service life, outperforming competing options by 2–4 times.

Lead screw technologies benefit from self-lubricating nut materials that help reduce maintenance needs and support reliable performance in demanding environments. Together, they offer flexible linear motion solutions for a wide range of load, speed, accuracy, and budget requirements.

Buy Ball Screw and Lead Screw Assemblies


Lead Screws with Nuts

PBC Linear® offers advanced Lead Screws and Nuts with Constant Force Anti-Backlash Nuts, ensuring exceptional precision, longevity, and lead accuracy

Features/Benefits of Lead Screws with Nuts

  • CNC Roll Threading provides standard accuracies up to 0.003”/ft, with options for precision lead accuracy down to 0.001”/ft.
  • Proprietary manufacturing processes reduce pitting and flanking, extending the usable life up to 6,000 miles in continuous duty.
  • Made from 300 Series Stainless Steel, with an optional PTFE coating to decrease friction and increase efficiency.
  • All nut styles are self-lubricating for maintenance-free operation over their lifespan.
  • Constant Force Anti-Backlash technology ensures consistent pressure and minimized backlash throughout use.
  • Built to perform in temperatures from -30°C to 120°C, accommodating a wide range of environmental conditions.
  • We produce custom machined journals and ball screw designs to meet specialized application requirements.
  • Nut shapes include triangle, round, and rectangle, with features like constant force anti-backlash for diverse operational demands.

Lead Screw Assemblies FAQ

Applications
  • Industrial automation systems
  • Precision lab equipment
  • CNC machinery
  • 3D printing platforms
  • Robotics
  • Aerospace mechanisms
  • Optical and medical devices

Miniature Ball Screws

The BSR Miniature Metric Ball Screw Assemblies, featuring Cylindrical and Flange Nuts, boast a robust design, tailored for small-scale, high-precision applications. While made in the USA, they are available in six metric sizes, their compact nature does not compromise on power, with a static axial load capacity of up to 2.144 kN (482 lb). 

Features/Benefits of Ball Screws

  • Designed for small spaces without sacrificing performance.
  • Supports static axial loads up to 2.144 kN (482 lb.).
  • Equipped with polymer wipers to maintain cleanliness and function.
  • Offers both cylindrical, externally threaded cylindrical, and flange nuts for versatile installation options.
  • Offers both cylindrical and flange nuts for versatile installation options.
  • PBC Linear provides custom designs to meet unique application specifications.
  • Delivered assembled for convenience, with an option for unassembled units.
  • Utilizes a multi-liner ball return system for enduring performance.
  • Offered in both Standard Backlash (0.05mm max) and Transitional Backlash (0.008mm to ≤3% preload) fit nuts.

Ball Screw Assemblies FAQ

Applications
  • Precision instrumentation
  • Medical devices
  • Aerospace components
  • Robotics
  • Small-scale industrial machinery
  • 3D printing equipment
  • Laboratory automation