Circular Flange Model LMIF

The THK LMIF series represents a flanged-type circular flange linear bushing engineered for robust performance in demanding linear motion applications. As part of THK’s renowned Ball Bushing lineup, this component integrates precision-ground components with advanced bearing technology to deliver exceptional accuracy and longevity. Its construction features a high-carbon chromium bearing steel outer ring subjected to special heat treatment, creating a hardened raceway that resists deformation under heavy loads. The flange design incorporates four symmetrically positioned mounting holes with precise counterbores, enabling secure fixation to machine frames or moving elements using standard socket head cap screws.

Key technical specifications include standardized bore sizes ranging from 3mm to 50mm, with corresponding outer diameters and flange dimensions engineered for dimensional stability. The internal structure employs a patented retainer system that maintains precise ball spacing while preventing slippage during high-speed operation. Each bushing undergoes THK’s proprietary grinding process to achieve raceway roundness within microns, ensuring smooth rolling motion without stick-slip phenomena. The LMIF model specifically addresses alignment challenges through its integrated flange, which provides enhanced mounting rigidity compared to standard linear bushings.

Performance advantages begin with the optimized ball circulation path that minimizes friction coefficients to as low as 0.001-0.004, significantly reducing energy consumption and heat generation. The hardened steel construction supports static load capacities up to 6.5kN and dynamic loads reaching 3.2kN for standard sizes, maintaining dimensional stability even under substantial radial forces. With noise levels below 65dB during operation and vibration damping characteristics superior to plain bearings, these bushings contribute to quieter machinery operation. The sealed variants incorporate non-contact labyrinth seals or contact-type rubber seals that effectively exclude contaminants while retaining lubrication, extending maintenance intervals to over 10,000 operating hours in typical industrial environments.

In industrial automation, LMIF bushings serve as critical components in CNC machine tool slides, where their high rigidity supports precise positioning during heavy cutting operations. Automotive manufacturing systems employ these bushings in welding robot transfer mechanisms, leveraging their impact resistance to withstand repeated acceleration cycles exceeding 2G. Semiconductor fabrication equipment utilizes the precision-grade versions for wafer handling robots, where sub-micron positioning repeatability is mandatory. Packaging machinery integrates these components in filling station actuators, benefiting from their corrosion-resistant options when handling food products or chemicals. Additional applications include precision measuring instrument stages, medical device assembly systems, and aerospace component testing equipment where reliable linear guidance is paramount. The flange configuration proves particularly valuable in space-constrained designs, eliminating the need for separate mounting blocks while providing superior moment load resistance compared to standard bushings.

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The THK LMIF/L Series flanged-type linear bushings represent a high-performance circular flange design within the THK Guide Ball Bushing range, engineered to provide exceptional linear motion support for shafts. This model is characterized by its integrated circular flange, which facilitates straightforward and secure mounting to machine frames or moving elements, eliminating the need for additional complex mounting brackets or blocks. The construction utilizes a precision-formed steel shell, housing a retainer that accurately spaces and guides a full complement of high-grade steel balls. These balls recirculate smoothly along the shaft with minimal friction, enabling precise linear travel. Key technical features of the LMIF/L Series include its compact flanged design, which saves space and simplifies assembly in constrained layouts. The bushings are manufactured to tight tolerances, ensuring high running accuracy and repeatability. They incorporate THK's advanced ball groove form, which optimizes contact with the shaft to provide high rigidity and load capacity. A robust seal or shield system is typically integrated to protect the internal ball recirculation elements from contaminants like dust, chips, and moisture, thereby maintaining performance and extending service life in demanding environments. The design also allows for smooth, low-friction motion, which is critical for applications requiring high positional accuracy. Performance advantages are substantial, starting with the ability to handle significant radial loads, making them suitable for applications where the guiding element must support the weight and forces of the moving component. The low coefficient of friction inherent in the ball recirculating design translates to high efficiency, requiring less drive force and enabling higher speeds with minimal heat generation. This contributes to energy savings and reduced wear. The flanged configuration provides excellent resistance to moment loads, enhancing stability and preventing tilting or misalignment during operation. Their durability and long service life, even under continuous or high-cycle duty, reduce maintenance frequency and total cost of ownership. Typical applications for the THK LMIF/L Series flanged linear bushings are widespread across industries demanding reliable linear guidance. In industrial machinery, they are commonly found in the linear axes of automated assembly systems, packaging equipment, material handling conveyors, and the sliding tables of machine tools, where they ensure precise and smooth movement. Within automotive manufacturing and testing systems, these components are utilized in positioning fixtures, robotic arm end-effectors, and parts transfer mechanisms that require robust performance under high loads and repetitive cycles. For precision equipment, such as semiconductor manufacturing apparatus, medical diagnostic devices, and optical positioning stages, the LMIF/L Series provides the critical accuracy, smooth motion, and cleanliness necessary for sensitive processes. Their versatility and reliability make them a fundamental component in advancing automation and precision across modern industrial and technological sectors.
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The THK LMIF SERIES flanged type linear bushings represent a high-performance circular flange design within the Guide Ball Bushing Linear Bushing family, engineered for robust and precise linear motion. These components feature a compact, integral flange that facilitates straightforward and secure mounting onto machine frames or moving elements, eliminating the need for additional complex housing units. The fundamental construction incorporates a precision-engineered outer sleeve, a retainer that effectively manages the recirculation of balls, and a complement of high-grade steel balls that provide the rolling contact between the shaft and the bushing. This design ensures smooth, low-friction travel along a supported shaft. Key technical features define the LMIF SERIES's operational superiority. The flanged configuration offers significant design convenience, providing a stable bolting surface that resists rotation and simplifies alignment during assembly. Internally, the optimized recirculation system for the balls minimizes vibration and noise while maintaining consistent contact, which is critical for high-speed applications. The bushings are manufactured to tight tolerances, ensuring high running accuracy and repeatability of positioning. Many models within this series are available with sealing options, such as rubber or metal seals, to effectively exclude contaminants like dust and chips while retaining essential lubricants, thereby enhancing service life in demanding environments. The materials used, including high-carbon chromium bearing steel for critical components, are selected for their durability, wear resistance, and ability to handle substantial static and dynamic loads. The performance advantages of the LMIF flanged bushings translate directly into enhanced machine capability. Their low coefficient of friction contributes to higher mechanical efficiency, allowing for the use of smaller, more economical drive motors and reducing overall energy consumption. The high rigidity of the unit supports heavy loads with minimal deformation, ensuring precision is maintained even under significant stress. This combination of smooth motion, high load capacity, and excellent durability results in a long operational lifespan with minimal maintenance requirements, reducing total cost of ownership. Their ability to perform reliably at high speeds makes them suitable for modern automated processes. Typical applications for the THK LMIF SERIES are found across a wide spectrum of industries demanding reliability and precision. In industrial machinery, they are integral to the linear axes of automated assembly robots, pick-and-place units, material handling systems, and the sliding tables of machining centers. Within the automotive sector, these bushings are employed in precision testing equipment, robotic welding arms, and automated assembly lines for engines and transmissions. For precision equipment, the LMIF SERIES is often specified in the critical motion stages of semiconductor manufacturing apparatus, optical positioning systems, and medical diagnostic devices where smooth, accurate, and contamination-free motion is paramount. Their versatile flanged design makes them a preferred solution for simplifying construction and improving the performance of linear motion systems where space is at a premium and reliability is non-negotiable.
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