LINEAR MOTION
AN EVOLVING MOTION SOLUTION
As a way to convert
rotational movement into linear motion, trapezoidal threads have been used in applications for many years. igus, however, has added
dryspin technology, resulting in a range of benefits
movement into linear motion in a wide range of applications – including window or door drives, in adjustments within production plants, or in laboratory technology machines. However, despite being a well established
T
technology that has been used for many years, there is always room for improvement. “Working at igus means daring to take an industry standard component and say: It can be even better,” explains Robert Day, dryspin product manager at igus in Northampton. So, the company revolutionised the trapezoidal
thread with its dryspin technology. The result is a longer service life, improved efficiency, reduced wear, and quieter operation. In fact the company has optimised the interaction between the leadscrew and polymer threaded nut, achieving a 30% longer service life and 82% efficiency. Compared to standard trapezoidal threads, igus has enlarged the thread surface of the nut and increased the distance between the thread pitches of the screw. This small adjustment has a considerable impact, because the increase in the thread area means more high-performance plastic is used for power transmission, which is tribologically optimised to handle friction and wear. In addition to being durable and efficient, dryspin leadscrew technology is quieter than most conventional trapezoidal threads, the company explains. The reason for this is that the teeth are rounded rather than square, so the contact surface between the threaded nut and the screw is reduced – meaning fewer vibrations. “Due to these rounded threads, the motion is free from vibration and almost silent. The tighter
rapezoidal threads have been an essential component of mechanical engineering for decades. These convert rotational
manufacturing tolerance of the lead screws compared to DIN 103 7e also ensures more precise running behaviour and significantly higher speeds in the application,” explains Day.
THE DESIGN dryspin thread technology was patented in 1996, initially as an alternative to high helix pitch threads. Today, over 50 sizes are available including matched screws and
“Working at igus means daring to take an industry standard component and say: It can be even better”
threaded nuts, as well as dimensions with low pitches for quick one-to-one replacement of old trapezoidal threads. The screws are made of stainless steel or aluminium and the nuts are injection moulded as standard in seven high-performance plastics in several designs – from cylindrical structures with a collar or keyed surface to versions with spring preload. There is also the option to machine the nuts from plastic bar or to SLS print parts for rapid prototyping.
A MAINTENANCE-FREE SOLUTION FOR THE RAIL INDUSTRY The rail industry is just one sector where lead screw technology is used. With train passenger
numbers increasing, components such as sliding doors and steps are facing ever higher levels of wear. Think, for example, about the sliding steps that bridge the gap between the train and the platform. Traditional sliding step mechanisms often face problems such as sticking, misalignment, and high maintenance costs. A leading rail operator needed a solution that would eliminate these issues while reducing weight, minimising components, and ensuring reliability despite the high temperature fluctuations and exposure to dirt and moisture. The use of dryspin lead screw drives gave the perfect solution. Made from stainless steel, paired with iglidur J nuts, these exceeded expectations, the company explains. Here, the system operated faultlessly despite the environmental conditions faced in this application. The simplified guidance system eliminated sticking, and the maintenance-free design reduced life cycle costs. Additionally, the system’s ability to withstand and offset heavy loads, along with manual retraction capability during power failures, ensured enhanced safety and convenience for passengers. Another application is the sliding doors on
trains. Here, long-lasting lead screw drives can be used to meet the high requirements, such as minimising wear and increasing service life.
MEETING APPLICATION DEMANDS So where linear motion technology is needed that offers higher efficiency and an increased service life, turn to igus, a company keen to offer solutions that meet application demands.
igus
www.igus.co.uk
APRIL 2025 DESIGN SOLUTIONS 47
FEATURE
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