Structured Manufacturing Data (2026)

Ball screw or linear actuator

Based on aggregated insights from structured factory profiles within the CNFX directory, the standard Ball screw or linear actuator used in the Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing sector typically supports operational capacities ranging from standard industrial configurations to heavy-duty production requirements.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A canonical Ball screw or linear actuator is characterized by the integration of Screw shaft and Ball nut. In industrial production environments, manufacturers listed on CNFX commonly emphasize Bearing steel construction to support stable, high-cycle operation across diverse manufacturing scenarios.

A precision mechanical component that converts rotary motion into linear motion with high efficiency and accuracy.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Ball screw or linear actuator

Definition
A critical drive component within X-Axis Rails & Drive systems that provides precise linear positioning and movement control by translating the rotational force from a motor into smooth, accurate linear displacement along the rail axis.
Working Principle
Utilizes recirculating ball bearings that roll between the screw shaft and nut, minimizing friction and converting rotational torque into linear force with high mechanical efficiency and positional accuracy.
Common Materials
Bearing steel, Alloy steel, Stainless steel
Technical Parameters
  • Lead (linear travel per screw revolution) and diameter are critical specifications determining speed, load capacity, and precision. (mm) Per Request
Components / BOM
  • Screw shaft Part
    Rotating component with helical raceway that drives the ball nut
    Material: Hardened alloy steel
  • Ball nut
    Contains recirculating ball bearings that engage with screw raceway
    Material: Bearing steel
  • Ball bearings Part
    Precision balls that roll between screw and nut to reduce friction
    Material: Chrome steel
  • Return system
    Channels that recirculate balls through the nut assembly
    Material: Steel or plastic

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Ball screw or linear actuator.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Not applicable (mechanical component, not fluid pressure)
other spec: Maximum axial load: 5-500 kN depending on size, Maximum speed: 1-3 m/s, Accuracy grade: C0-C10 per ISO 3408
temperature: -40°C to +120°C (standard), up to +200°C with special seals/lubrication
Media Compatibility
✓ Machine tool cutting fluids ✓ Industrial lubricants (grease/oil) ✓ Clean industrial air environments
Unsuitable: Abrasive particulate environments without protective covers
Sizing Data Required
  • Required axial load capacity (N)
  • Maximum travel length (mm)
  • Required positioning accuracy/repeatability (μm)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Backlash and positioning error
Cause: Wear in ball nut or screw threads due to insufficient lubrication, contamination ingress, or excessive axial loads leading to loss of preload and dimensional accuracy.
Ball recirculation failure
Cause: Contamination (dust, chips, debris) blocking ball return channels, or mechanical damage to recirculation components causing jamming, noise, and eventual seizure.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible grinding, clicking, or irregular noise during operation indicating contamination or ball damage
  • Visible metal flakes or discolored grease around seals, signaling advanced wear or lubrication breakdown
Engineering Tips
  • Implement strict contamination control: Use wipers/scrapers, protective bellows, and ensure clean environment during installation and operation
  • Establish precision lubrication regimen: Use manufacturer-specified grease/oil, monitor intervals based on load/speed cycles, and verify proper distribution without over-greasing

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Reference Standards
ISO 3408-1:2019 (Ball screws - Part 1: Vocabulary and designation) ANSI/B5.48-1977 (Ball Screws) DIN 69051-1:2018 (Ball screw drives - Part 1: General characteristics, definitions, designation)
Manufacturing Precision
  • Lead accuracy: ±0.005 mm per 300 mm travel
  • Radial runout: ≤0.01 mm at mounting flange
Quality Inspection
  • Dye Penetrant Test for surface crack detection
  • Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) verification of geometric tolerances

Factories Producing Ball screw or linear actuator

Manufacturer profiles with relevant production capability in China

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
4/5
Manufacturing capability
4/5
Inspection readiness
5/5
Supplier transparency
3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main components of a ball screw actuator?

The main components include the screw shaft, ball nut, ball bearings, and return system, which work together to convert rotary motion into precise linear movement.

What materials are commonly used in ball screw manufacturing?

Ball screws are typically made from bearing steel, alloy steel, or stainless steel, chosen for their durability, strength, and corrosion resistance in industrial applications.

How does a ball screw achieve high precision in linear motion?

Ball screws use recirculating ball bearings between the screw shaft and nut, minimizing friction and backlash to provide accurate, efficient linear positioning with repeatable results.

Can I contact factories directly on CNFX?

CNFX is an open directory, not a transaction platform. Each factory profile provides direct contact information and production details to help you initiate direct inquiries with Chinese suppliers.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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