Linear & Mechanical products

Ball screws and ball splines are generally required to move an object horizontally or vertically whilst achieving a high positional accuracy and a rigid slop free movement. A Ball Screw is a high-efficiency feed screw with balls making a rolling motion between the screw axis and the nut. Compared with a conventional moving nut on a thread, the ball screw reduces the power needed to drive an object up to 70%, making it most suitable for multiple installations where motor power is kept to a minimum. A ball spline is a non-driven support bearing, keeping an object in line and allowing minimal movement in any direction other than that of travel. These are generally used in conjunction with a ball screw that provides the movement. <strong>Common applications:</strong> <ul><li>X/Y/Z tables - high speed and accurate positioning for precise control. <li>Special purpose machine builds - high speed and accurate positioning for precise control. <li>Multiple positional axis - power consumption considerably lower and life expectancy higher than simple travelling nut on a screwed rod. </li></ul>

The coupling between motor / gear-motor output shaft and the product to be rotated is often overlooked. Many times, they are connected by a solid coupling with the belief that the rigid structure will then 'self-align' when mounted...Sometimes, this works. In some cases, the mounting surfaces are not perfectly machined, or the shafts not perfectly aligned. All may appear ok but the wear on bearings due to lack of compliance in the coupling can significantly reduce longevity and lead to premature failure, noise, vibration and a general perception of low quality for the overall product. Choosing the right coupling according to the installation requirements can solve all these problems. We offer a multitude of options and are happy to discuss your application to ensure the best connection is made. <strong>Common applications.</strong> <ul><li>Motor to pump connection - vibration and misalignment taken out by coupling. <li>Servo motor - maintain backlash free connection whilst reducing load on bearings. <li>Any motor or gear motor connection to a driven object can benefit from the correct choice of coupling.</li></ul>

Compact linear actuators for small automation applications. Fitted with internal limit switches or feedback potentiometer.

Linear guides are the important bits that keep everything in line and the machine accuracy perfect. Be it a relatively simple slide runner or a fully rigid carbon linear guide with ball screw movement and servo motor positioning drive, correct choice of unit for the application is essential. Sugatsune and THK are the partners of choice for our linear guides and together are happy to discuss application details and characteristics, to ensure the right unit is specified. From a cost-effective miniature linear rail and carriage assembly through to a full bespoke caged ball curved slide rail, we have the experience and know-how to select the products best suited to your application.</br> <strong>Typical applications for linear guides and associated products are:</strong> <ul><li>CNC machine tools - high speed slides with rigidity accuracy to keep machine tolerances low. <li>Food production machines - Door openers and slides for smooth weight bearing movement <li>Robotics - miniature rails for grippers, heavy duty bearings for moving robot axis. <li>Automatic industrial doors - low friction slides for moving heavy doors with ease. <li>Process and packaging machinery - From miniature rails on hand driven trolleys to heavy duty guides on full production lines <li>Medical machinery - high accuracy and rigidity to keep resolution and accuracy high on scanners. <li>Automotive industry - large, long linear guides for automotive carpet cutting.</li></ul>

Smart actuators provide fast, precise linear motion in an ultra-compact package. Designed as an efficient alternative to pneumatic cylinders, they reduce energy consumption, save installation space and deliver accurate, repeatable positioning for modern automation systems.

Reliable electromagnetic solutions for switching, locking and actuation. NAFSA solenoids and electromagnets are available in standard and custom designs for industrial automation, access control and machine-building applications.

Premium hinges for doors, lids and panels, including concealed, soft-close and free-stop designs for smooth, reliable operation.