Schaeffler Group Developed Linear Guidance System

Schaeffler Group Developed Linear Guidance System The Linear Technology division of the Schaeffler Group has developed a modular, high-speed linear guidance system which reduces throughput times in high-speed handling and automation tasks, while offering a 30% higher service life over competing products. In order to produce or assemble products faster, manufacturers require faster machines and highly automated production systems. Linear drive technologies, including linear motors and linear guidance systems, are therefore required that possess higher operating speeds and improved dynamics. While there are linear guidance systems on the market today that are capable of reaching speeds of around 8m per second by using hybrid ceramic rolling elements, the Schaeffler Group's INA Linear Technology Division has developed a linear guide that operates on steel rolling elements and is capable of reaching even higher speeds of up to 10m/s.No hybrid technology was used in the design of these new linear guides. The new KUVE-B-HS high-speed version of Schaeffler's KUVE-B linear guidance range is a four-row, linear recirculating ball bearing and guideway assembly.The system was unveiled for the first time to visitors to the Schaeffler Group's stand at the recent Hanover Fair exhibition in Germany. With such high speed and acceleration capabilities, the new guides offer machine builders and systems integrators faster throughput times and improved dynamics for their customers.The guides are ideal for highly automated production environments, semiconductor manufacturers and high-speed pick and place applications. The fact that the new guides use steel rolling elements rather than ceramic balls means that load carrying capacity and rigidity are equivalent to standard full complement KUVE-B guides of the same size and variant.The KUVE-B-HS guides are robust, reliable and safe.The guides run on Schaeffler's standard TKVD guideways and are easily interchangeable with other guides.The units have a design envelope that corresponds to those specified in DIN 645.The guides are compact for screw mounting.Five variants of the KUVE25-B-HS are available now, with more versions in the development pipeline.