As an efficient and precise transmission element, ball screw selection is a critical step in mechanical design. The following are key selection factors: Key Parameter Matching: Axial Load: Determine the maximum dynamic and static load requirements, and accordingly select the screw’s nominal diameter (which determines load capacity) and nut type. Load is the foundation of… Read more: Key Points for Ball Screw Selection

Supplier Selection Software/Online Tools: (Highly Recommended) Most well-known ball screw manufacturers (such as THK, HIWIN, NSK, SKF, and Bosch Rexroth) offer free selection software or online calculators. Enter parameters such as load, speed, stroke, accuracy, and lifespan, and the software will automatically calculate the recommended model, verify critical speed, buckling load, and lifespan. It’s very… Read more: Ball Screw Selection – Utilizing Tools and Resources

Selecting a Support Unit (Bearing Housing): Fixed End (Drive End): An angular contact ball bearing pair (typically back-to-back DB or face-to-face DF) capable of supporting both axial and radial loads must be used and preloaded. Maximum axial load must be supported. Supported End (Non-Drive End): Fixed-Fixed: Fixed bearing housings are used on both ends. This… Read more: Ball Screw Configuration Selection

· Select the screw diameter and lead based on the calculated results: Using the calculated Ca_req and the determined Ph, consult the supplier’s catalog. Find a screw nominal diameter series that satisfies Ca > Ca_req (e.g., Φ12, Φ16, Φ20, Φ25, etc.). Confirm that this diameter and lead combination meets the critical speed Nc > n… Read more: Selecting a specific ball screw configuration

· Load: Type: Is it a thrust load (along the screw axis)? A radial load? Or a torque load? Size: What is the maximum load? (Newtons or kilograms-force (kgf)) Direction: Is the load direction constant? Is it bidirectional? Variation: Is the load constant, fluctuating, or impactful? Point of application: Where does the load act on… Read more: Selecting a ball screw requires clarifying application requirements (a core starting point)

Ball Screws vs. Sliding Screws: Ball screws offer advantages in efficiency, precision, speed, and lifespan, but they are more expensive. Sliding screws have a simpler structure, lower cost, and self-locking (trapezoidal thread). They are suitable for low-precision, light-load, low-speed applications requiring self-locking, or cost-sensitive applications. Ball Screws vs. Planetary Roller Screws: Planetary roller screws use… Read more: Comparison of Ball Screws, Sliding Screws, and Planetary Roller Screws