Ball screw

Description

A ball screw converts the rotation of a motor into precise straight-line movement. Steel balls recirculate between the threaded shaft and the nut, keeping friction low and play to a minimum. On CNC routers it is most often found on the Z axis and wherever rigid, repeatable positioning is needed.

Signs of wear include backlash you can feel when reversing direction, a rough or notchy movement when turning the screw by hand, grinding noise, and dimensions that drift on finished parts. Keep the screw clean and lubricated, fit protective covers where dust is heavy, and never unscrew the nut completely off the shaft, as the balls can fall out.

When ordering, measure the shaft diameter and lead, the total and threaded lengths, and the machining at both ends where the bearings and coupling sit, and note the nut type and its mounting flange. Bring these figures or the old screw to the Shubra spare-parts outlet, or contact any Top Laser branch so the replacement matches.