Linear bearings, as core components for achieving high-precision linear motion, are primarily classified based on their core structural form, installation method, functional characteristics, and dimensional specifications. This classification aims to meet the diverse needs of equipment ranging from general-purpose transmissions to high-precision devices for motion accuracy, load capacity, rigidity, ease of installation, and space adaptability.
The core classifications are as follows:
By Core Structure and Rolling Elements
Standard Linear Ball Bearings (Bushing Type): Such as LM-UU, LME-UU, SDM-UU, SDE-UU series and various variants. Using balls as rolling elements, they feature a standard cylindrical bushing structure, characterized by low friction, smooth movement, and high precision, making them the most common and economical choice.
Linear Roller Bearings: Such as LM-L-UU, LME-L-UU series. Using cylindrical rollers as rolling elements, they provide extremely high radial load capacity and rigidity, suitable for heavy-duty applications with stringent rigidity requirements and tolerance for small clearances.
Precision Shaft Bushings: Such as LMB-L-UU series. Typically high-precision, preloaded, or specially designed bushings, used to support and guide precision shafts, emphasizing guiding accuracy and low runout.
Classification by Installation and Shape Characteristics
Standard Cylindrical Type: This is the basic bushing form, requiring installation in a bearing housing or machined hole.
Flanged Type: A flange is integrated into the bushing for easy direct installation and fixing. Further subdivided according to flange shape:
Circular Flange Type (F): Such as SDMF-UU, LMF-UU.
Square/Rectangular Flange Type (K/H): Such as SDMK-UU, LMK-UU (square), LMH-UU (rectangular), providing greater installation stability and torque resistance.
Extended/Reinforced Flange Type (P/C): Such as LMFP-UU, LMHC-L-UU, further enhancing installation rigidity and load capacity.
Classification by Function and Adjustment Characteristics
Open/Adjustable Clearance Type (OP): Such as SDM-OP-UU, LM-OP-UU. The bearing outer sleeve has a slit, allowing for inner diameter adjustment via bolts to eliminate gaps with the mounting hole or achieve micro-preload, preventing bearing rotation within the hole.
Extended Type (L): Such as LME-L-UU, LMFP-L-UU. Increased bearing length improves guiding accuracy, rigidity, and service life.
Extended/Wide Type (C): Such as LMFC-L-UU, LMEFC-L-UU. Increased bearing width or flange size significantly enhances resistance to overturning moments and installation stability.
Linear bearing product systems determine core performance through rolling elements (balls/rollers), adapt to structural requirements through mounting methods (standard/flange), and achieve precision adjustment and performance enhancement through functional design (opening/extended/expanded). Users must comprehensively consider key factors such as load direction and magnitude, motion accuracy, installation space, rigidity requirements, and whether anti-rotation or preload is needed when selecting a model.
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