Overview of linear axes

drylin drive technology consists of a wide range of products ranging from lightweight linear axes made of polymer to solid stainless steel solutions; they work without the use of external lubricants. The movement of the linear axes is implemented either via lead screws, toothed belts or racks. igus offers the customer suitable solutions for the most individual applications. In all systems, the length of the stroke is freely selectable and the drive of the linear units can be implemented using optionally available equipment in the form of hand wheels or various motors. Positioning tables driven by lead screws are the preferred choice for applications with high axial shear forces, which therefore require the highest precision.

Across models, the linear modules can be equipped with trapezoidal or high helix lead screws. Linear axes with toothed belt drive are designed for long travels and very high speeds in applications with high repeatability and short throughput times. 

The linear units for high speed and long travels with direct power transmission via racks offer the additional benefit of allowing multiple carriages to move independently of each other and clearance-free on a single system.

Linear drives with lead screw

• Cost-effective & precise format adjustment

Linear drives with toothed belt

• Very efficient due to low inertia

Lightweight cantilever axis

• Maximum precision even with long travels

When to use it?

• For format adjustments
• In extreme environments
• When a cost-effective, ready-to-fit solution is required
• When corrosion resistance is required
• When a quiet operation is required

When not to use it?

• When high loads need to travel at highly dynamic forces
• When positioning accuracy of < 0.1mm is required
• When high running performance in continuous operation is required

When to use it?

• Quickly position small loads
• For low-profile structure
• Quiet operation and continuous operation
• Underwater use with UW belt
• Basic version as a low-priced solution

When not to use it?

• When high loads need to be moved at high speeds
• When positioning accuracy of < 0.1mm is needed

When to use it?

• Pick and place applications with high dynamics
• For compact structure of the application
• As z axis in multi-axis gantries

When not to use it?

• High loads
• Self-locking
• Dirt-filled application fields