Is the standard length unsuitable for your application? Do you need a custom mounting hole pattern or a specially machined linear shaft?
When building machinery, performing maintenance, or repairing existing equipment, profiled linear guide rails and linear shafts often need to be adapted precisely to the available installation space.
However, length is not the only factor to consider. The mounting hole pattern and fixing method of profiled guide rails, as well as the support arrangement and end machining of linear shafts, all play an important role in ensuring proper installation.
At Bearing Kft., we supply profiled linear guide rails and linear shafts cut to custom lengths, as well as linear shafts with special end machining. Here’s what you should consider before placing your order!
Cutting Profiled Linear Guide Rails to Length – It’s Not Just About the Overall Length
The mounting holes in profiled linear guide rails are positioned at predefined intervals. When cutting rails to custom lengths, it is therefore important to consider not only the overall rail length but also the positioning of the mounting holes.
Key dimensions to consider:
- Overall length (L): The required length of the guide rail.
- Hole pitch (P): The centre-to-centre distance between two adjacent mounting holes.
- End distances (E₁ and E₂): The distances from each end of the rail to the centre of the first and last mounting holes, respectively.
These dimensions are particularly important when repairing existing machinery, where the new guide rail must align with the existing mounting holes.
Specifying the correct dimensions helps prevent installation and alignment issues, as well as unnecessary additional machining.
Top-Mounted or Bottom-Mounted Profiled Linear Guide Rails?
When selecting a profiled linear guide rail, it is important to determine the appropriate mounting method in advance.
Top-mounted profiled guide rails are secured using bolts inserted from the top of the rail. This mounting method is suitable for applications where the rail is accessible from above.
Bottom-mounted profiled guide rails feature threaded holes on the underside of the rail for mounting. This design can provide a suitable alternative for certain machine configurations.
When choosing the appropriate mounting method, it is essential to consider the available installation space, accessibility, and the existing machine design.
Linear Shafts – Why Is Proper Support Important?
When selecting linear shafts, the support arrangement is just as important as the shaft length and diameter.
End-supported linear shafts are supported at both ends. Deflection under load depends on several factors, including shaft length, diameter, and the magnitude of the applied load.
Supported linear shafts feature a continuous support profile along their entire length, which can provide greater rigidity and reduce deflection.
When choosing the most suitable solution, it is therefore important to consider both the load conditions and the installation requirements.
Related products:
Linear Shafts with Custom End Machining
We supply linear shafts not only cut to custom lengths but also with custom end machining, allowing them to be manufactured with the required mounting and connection features.
Available machining options include:
- External threads and internally threaded holes
- Internal hexagonal sockets
- Machined flats and grooves
- Circlip (Seeger ring) grooves
- Axial and cross-drilled holes
- Special machining according to customer-supplied technical drawings
Custom machining allows linear shafts to be delivered ready for installation, with the required features already in place, reducing the need for additional on-site machining.
Need Custom Dimensions or Special Machining?
At Bearing Kft., you can count on us for cutting profiled linear guide rails and linear shafts to custom lengths, as well as providing special end machining for linear shafts.
Send us the product part number, required dimensions, and a technical drawing, if available!
We’ll help you review the technical requirements and find the right solution for your installation needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the mounting hole pattern important when cutting profiled linear guide rails to length?
The position of the mounting holes determines whether the rail will align correctly with the machine’s mounting points. In addition to the overall length, the hole pitch and
end distances must also be taken into account.
When should you choose fully supported linear shafts?
Fully supported linear shafts can be an advantageous choice when reducing shaft deflection and increasing rigidity are important considerations. The most suitable solution depends on the load conditions and installation requirements.
Can linear shafts be ordered with custom end machining?
Yes. Linear shafts can be supplied with threads, drilled holes, machined flats, grooves, or other custom features according to customer-supplied technical drawings.
