Posted to News on 5th Nov 2008, 10:10
Plain linear guide features adjustable clearance
Igus is launching a Drylin W lubrication-free linear guide with a 'turn-to-fit' function for manual setting of the clearance. Customers can install the unit and retain the standard clearance or use an Allen key to increase the preload over the whole bearing surface. Adjustment is in small notched steps that can be both heard and felt. If wear occurs, the system can simply be readjusted.
Lee Wilkins, Igus Drylin product manager, comments: "The aim of the development work was to give the design engineers more freedom and to improve precision even further."
The system comprises a housing consisting of several parts and a bearing sleeve made of technical tribo-plastic. Wilkins explains that, as well as the basic structure and continually tested materials, further features include: "A small design height, very low friction and excellent wear resistance." Further advantages include low weight and high resistance to dirt and humidity. The clearance adjustment can also be transferred to the ready-to-fit lead screw linear units and belt drives.
According to Igus, the history of the development of the new 'turn-to-fit' principle is as simple as it is logical. A few years ago, a new generation of guides were developed, the Drylin W system, that allowed flexible and modular construction and, therefore, easy assembly. Now a further beneficial feature has been added to this versatile system that is suitable for use on single or double rails made of hard-anodised aluminium, individual bearings or complete slides. This version is available in design size 10; the other design sizes (06, 16 and 20) will follow shortly.
Follow the link for more information about Drylin W bearings.
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