New mini ball screw drives for maximum performance

The new high-performance miniature ball screw drives of the SP series from SKF are suitable for a wide range of medical technology applications, e.g., for dental milling machines. (Image: SKF)

The new high-performance miniature ball screw drives of the SP series from SKF are suitable for a wide range of medical technology applications, e.g., for dental milling machines. (Image: SKF)

Thanks to a new interior design (1) and a universal mounting thread (2), the SP series from SKF is just as powerful as it is easy to install. (Image: SKF)

At the Düsseldorf COMPAMED and the parallel MEDICA, SKF Linear Systems GmbH will present, among other things, the new high-performance miniature ball screw drives of the SP series. The series, which operates with equal precision and low noise, opens up a wide range of design possibilities in medical technology.

The new miniature ball screw drives from SKF enable extremely precise positioning even at high speeds. Additionally, thanks to their low friction, they achieve maximum reliability, minimizing maintenance requirements for the user. Despite their small dimensions, the robust drive elements can withstand high axial loads. Since the SP series is available in numerous configurations and can also be customized, it is suitable for an extremely broad range of applications.

In medical technology, it is possible to achieve goals such as downsizing, higher operational safety, higher speeds, increased productivity, or reduced noise levels, depending on the application and needs. Manufacturers of various medical devices can benefit from these advantages; for example, producers of dental milling machines.

The performance improvements of the SP series were made possible by a newly designed internal profile: The particularly uniform engagement of the balls in the improved ball return of the nut allows for nearly 2.5 times higher speeds (n x d0 < 120,000). At the same time, the increased smoothness of the latest series contributes to a significantly longer service life compared to its predecessor. Excellent repeatability and high positioning accuracy are naturally included.

To offer designers as much flexibility as possible, the SP series has also been equipped with a universal mounting thread. This allows almost any standard solution to be easily replaced with the new high-performance miniature ball screw drive from SKF. It is standardly equipped with a lubrication hole and integrated housing seals on both sides. Upon request, its axial play can be customized reduced (with a version available that is play-free).

SKF will showcase these and other efficiency-enhancing solutions for medical technology from November 13 to 16, 2017, at COMPAMED and MEDICA in Düsseldorf.