Maintenance, installation guidelines for linear motion applications

Proper installation, operation, and maintenance of linear components are essential to maximize the service life of a linear motion system. The following are general guidelines for linear thrust and guidance mechanisms.

Installation tips

• Mount the components on a clean, level, and solid foundation. Mounting accuracy of linear systems usually will mimic that of the base or bed.
• Position the actuator or screw axis at center and parallel to the load as much as possible to prevent detrimental moments. Avoid side loading and cantilever mounting.
• Make sure the entire linear assembly is as rigidly mounted as practical.
• Using dial indicators, determine that all rails are level and parallel with each other.
• Ensure that the thrust mechanism will run back and forth freely during installation.
• Minimize spans between drive components. Short, straight connecting shafts are ideal for the system.
• Utilize additional bearing supports for drive shafts whenever possible.
• Use zero-backlash, flexible couplings and gearboxes.
• Incorporate limit switches and sensors into the system to control travel distances and positioning.
• When mounting profile rails, observe the datum line on the reference rail and place it against the datum plane.

Operating tips

• Avoid excessive compression loads (column loading) on thrust devices. Heavily loaded vertical applications and high-speed horizontal applications are prone to column loading.
• Do not exceed the limiting speeds of all linear components.
• Make sure brakes and anti-rotation devices are used to prevent unintentional back driving and effective stops.
• Use a torque-limiting device to prevent overloading the system and to protect the components.

Maintenance tips

• Lock out, tag out, and verify that the system is neutralized prior to any service work.
• Use protective bellows, boots, seals, and covers whenever possible to prevent foreign materials from interfering with movement and causing wear.
• Properly torque all fasteners to the specified amount.
• Lubricate all steel surfaces with light machine oil.

ONLINE extra

See a related article below about eight major factors to consider when implementing a linear motion system.

Original content can be found at Plant Engineering.

Do you have experience and expertise with the topics mentioned in this content? You should consider contributing to our WTWH Media editorial team and getting the recognition you and your company deserve. Click here to start this process.