A profile rail guide enables linear motion using rolling elements. By employing balls or rollers between the rail and the carriage, a profile rail guide can achieve an extremely precise linear movement. Compared to conventional plain bearings, the coefficient of friction is reduced to only about one fiftieth. Due to the positive guidance of the carriage on the rail, profile rail guides can support loads in both vertical and horizontal directions.
Profile rail guides are used, among others, in machining centers, automation technology, woodworking, and medical technology.
Features and advantages of profile rail guides:
- High positioning accuracy
- Long service life with exceptionally precise motion
- High speeds requiring low drive power
- Equal high load capacity in all directions
- Simple installation and interchangeability
Profile rail guides can be lubricated with grease or oil. Typically, grease lubrication is used. However, there is also the option to equip the carriages with an oil reservoir or connect them to a centralized lubrication system. Depending on the application, different coatings are available. Carriages come with various preload levels and accuracy classes. For sealing the carriage, a standard end seal and lower sealing strip are used. Additionally, there are steel scrapers, double seals, and specialized dust protection seals, which are for example applied in woodworking.
The following types of profile rail guides are distinguished:
