THK’s Guide Ball Bushing Linear Bushing flanged type represents a fundamental advancement in linear motion technology, engineered to deliver exceptional precision, rigidity, and longevity in demanding applications. This compact, high-performance linear bushing incorporates a unique flange design that simplifies mounting and enhances structural integrity by providing a secure, stable connection point. The bushing features a meticulously engineered ball recirculation system, where precision-ground steel balls circulate smoothly within a hardened steel raceway, ensuring minimal friction and consistent linear guidance. This design minimizes rotational torque fluctuations and provides high rigidity, making it capable of withstanding substantial moment loads and vibrations without compromising accuracy.
Key technical features include the use of high-carbon chromium bearing steel for both the outer ring and balls, which undergo specialized heat treatment to achieve superior hardness and wear resistance. The flanged configuration allows for direct mounting to machine surfaces, eliminating the need for additional housing blocks and reducing overall assembly complexity and space requirements. Many models are available with seals or shields to protect the internal ball recirculation system from contaminants such as dust, chips, and moisture, significantly extending service life in harsh environments. The compact cross-section and lightweight design contribute to space-saving installations while maintaining high load capacities.
Performance advantages are substantial across multiple metrics. The low coefficient of friction results in smooth, precise motion with minimal stick-slip effect, enabling high-speed operation and precise positioning repeatability. Excellent vibration damping characteristics contribute to quieter operation and reduced transmission of mechanical vibrations to surrounding components. The flanged design provides enhanced mounting stability, resisting deflection under heavy loads and maintaining alignment accuracy over extended service periods. These bushings demonstrate exceptional durability, with calculated service lives often exceeding 10,000 kilometers of travel under proper operating conditions.
Typical applications span numerous industrial sectors where reliable linear motion is critical. In industrial machinery, these flanged bushings are extensively used in CNC machine tool slides, automated assembly equipment, precision measuring instruments, and material handling systems. The automotive industry employs them in robotic welding arms, precision testing equipment, and automated assembly line components where high precision and reliability are paramount. Within precision equipment, they find application in semiconductor manufacturing equipment, optical positioning systems, medical device automation, and coordinate measuring machines. Their versatility also extends to packaging machinery, printing equipment, and various automation systems requiring compact, high-rigidity linear guidance solutions. The combination of mounting convenience, high load capacity, and precision performance makes THK’s flanged linear bushings an optimal choice for engineers seeking to enhance the reliability and accuracy of linear motion systems across diverse industrial applications.