Extended sizes of the new lubrication-free exchange bearings ensure longer service life of drylin W linear systems
igus, the motion plastics specialist, relies on lubrication-free liners made of high-performance polymers for a silent and precise sliding of linear guides. At the beginning of the new year, igus developed an exchange bearing for the drylin W linear modular kit, particularly for a quick replacement of liners in high-frequency applications. The principle behind it is quite simple: Unlock bearing, push liner out, replace, and it’s ready. The exchange bearing that saves time and cost is now also available in sizes 16 and 20 for linear guides of the drylin W series, besides the standard installation size 10.
In extreme conditions, abrasive sand or glass dust can sooner or later cause wear of the liners on a linear guide rail, just like applications in automation where linear guides and axes are in operation round the clock. For a replacement of the liner, the entire linear carriage had to be slid off the rail. Especially for linear axes or multi-axis linear robots with belt drive, this could only be done through costly disassembly and recommissioning.
Therefore, igus has developed an exchange bearing made of the high-performance plastic iglidur J200 for the drylin W linear guides. The bearing enables easy replacement directly on the linear rail in a few steps. This reduces downtimes, saves set-up costs and ensures 24/7 operation.
A practical, free tool enables safe installation of the liners in no time at all. To enable even more users to take advantage of the practical and efficient bearing, the new bearing is also available for installation sizes 16 and 20, in addition to installation size 10. Thus, for example, drylin W linear guides, linear axes and linear robots can be easily retrofitted.
Linear bearing replacement in 30 seconds
The principle of the replacement bearing is quite simple: First, the side cover of the linear housing is loosened using a screwdriver. With the free tool supplied, which the users can also 3D print themselves, the liner can now be slid out of the housing and directly removed from the rail. The new lining, made of the wear-resistant and abrasion-resistant high-performance plastic iglidur J200, is then clipped onto the rail and inserted into the carriage with the mounting tool.
Put the side cover back on the linear housing and the bearing change is finished in no time. The practical advantage: The rail is not damaged and the bearing housing can be reused without disassembly of belts or lead screws. A pin located in the middle of the side cover secures the liner in the linear housing. Alternatively, replacement can also be carried out with a screwdriver.
On the new liner and in the carriage, igus has provided special recesses for this purpose. The drylin W exchange bearing and mounting tool are easy to order online, just like the practical retrofit kit with replacement liners, lid and mounting tool.