Qualities Of Ball Screw Assembly

A ball screw assembly is typically is not very complicated but they do incorporate a range of small parts. If all of the parts are working correctly, the ball screw should work without any difficulties, with the ball bearings running freely along the threads and through the recirculation system.

An important point is that ball screw assemblies may seize up if confronted by any miniscule pieces of dirt. An example of this is if samples of dust or dirt get stuck inside the thread ways on the inside of the ball screw nut, this can oppose the motion of the ball bearings. A principal feature behind of the levels of efficiency of ball screw assemblies is the fact that they do not generate much friction. Any foreign object inside the ball screw assembly will alter this balance however, resulting in the generation of greater levels of friction and therefore causing a reduction in efficiency.

Wiper systems are mostly comprised of miniscule brushes that can sweep along the threads of the ball screw nut, quickly clearing any foreign bodies away. These wipers are usually made from elastomer, felt or brush. A range of different approaches to wipers are currently being incorporated into ball screw assemblies. Each of them has a single principle objective that is to pick up any items of dust that have made their way inside the ball screw assembly. Most wipers are made of plastic, i.e. elastomer, and they are constructed to maximize frictional effects. The friction will help the wipers collect any obstruction that is brushed by them. Some wipers also contain a secondary felt wiper, which is used to lubricate the interior of the ball screw nut with either oil or grease. This design then has the plastic wipers sweep the threads, while the felt wipers grease them.
Wipers can be highly useful in prolonging the lifespan of a ball screw, and are most effective if the ball screw has the correct degree of maintenance.