Managing Misalignment in Linear Motion Systems: How Much Tolerance Do You Really Need?

When design engineers evaluate linear bearings for their automated, assembly-oriented machines with medium- precision positioning accuracy requirements, they always ask about performance attributes such as speed, load capacity and lifecycle. Then, they want to know the price. It’s rare, however, that they ask about the bearing’s sensitivity to misalignment. And that’s a big mistake, because misalignment represents one of the leading causes of premature linear bearing wear and failure.

Of all the factors that contribute to the premature failure of linear bearings, misalignment ranks near the top of the list. When automated system designers choose a more compliant precision guide, they can cope without breaking the bank.

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