Why Is Your PLC Positioning Off? Understanding the Errors in BallScrews Plainly Speaking: It’s All About BallScrew Errors!

 The diagram below shows an error indication diagram provided by a ballscrew manufacturer.

The lower the grade of the ballscrew you buy, the greater the error will be!

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In mechanical design, screws are used to convert rotational movement into linear movement. They are commonly found in precision positioning systems such as CNC machine tools and automation equipment. The errors in screws usually refer to inaccuracies that occur during manufacturing or usage, which can impact the performance and precision of machinery. Here are some common types of screw errors:

Pitch Errors:

Pitch refers to the distance between two consecutive threads on a screw. Pitch errors occur when this distance is uneven, which can be caused by tool wear, equipment aging, or other technical issues during manufacturing.

Straightness Errors:

Straightness errors refer to bending or non-straightness of the screw's axis. This can lead to fluctuations when the screw rotates, affecting the overall system's precision.

Radial Errors:

These occur when there is a deviation in the screw's central axis during rotation, possibly due to imperfections in the screw or bearings.

Thermal Expansion Errors:

Changes in temperature during operation can cause the materials of the screw to expand or contract, introducing additional errors.

Wear Errors:

Over time, the friction between the screw and the nut can cause wear, which gradually increases the error and reduces the system’s repeatability in positioning.

Understanding and measuring these errors is crucial for maintaining high-precision machinery operations. It typically requires professional measurement tools and techniques for adjustments and compensation. Considering these factors during the design and maintenance phases can significantly enhance the performance and lifespan of mechanical equipment.