A quick-fire MasterClass in thomson adjustable linear bearings
If you feel your application could benefit from higher precision, the answer could lie in removing linear bearing play (also called the “lash”) from the linear guide. As a leading Thomson linear bearings supplier, Bowman offers a wide range of Thomson adjustable bearings designed to improve accuracy and deliver reliable linear motion.
To do this, you’ll need adjustable linear bearing and adjustable housing too. The good news is that most Thomson linear guides and linear ball bushing bearings are available in this format.
How Do Adjustable Linear Ball Bushing Bearings Work?
An adjustable linear bearing allows you to control the radial play between the shaft and the bearing surface by changing the internal diameter of the bearing. This adjustment is simple to make using an Allen (Hex) key.
Reducing the inner diameter of your linear ball bushing bearing pushes the bearing surfaces towards the shaft. When the bearing is installed in its housing, the outside surface of the bearing plates (or bearing sleeve) sits against the housing bore. If the housing’s inside diameter is adjustable and reduced, the linear plates and balls move inward towards the shaft surface, helping remove linear bearing play and minimise radial clearance.
In doing so, the radial play can be reduced to zero clearance or a slight pre-load fit, resulting in greater positioning accuracy.
A Note About Pre-Load
A slight amount of pre-load, particularly with larger-sized bearings, is usually acceptable. However, excessive pre-load should always be avoided. Too much pre-load can cause rough operation and may damage both the linear bearing and the shaft surface.
Which Thomson Linear Bearings Are Available in Adjustable Formats?
All Thomson Super and Super Smart linear ball bushing bearings are adjustable for radial play when installed in an adjustable housing.
Closed A and MAM bearings are not available in adjustable formats as standard but can be manufactured to order.
Will Better Precision Benefit Your Application?
Correctly adjusting radial clearance is one of the simplest ways to improve system accuracy, reduce wear, and extend bearing life. As an experienced Thomson linear bearings supplier, Bowman can help you select the right Thomson adjustable bearings and Thomson linear guides to achieve optimal performance for your application.
