Application of Rolling Bearings on Machine Tools
Rolling bearings are crucial components for the functioning of machine tools. They have to withstand very high loads and thus require a high level of rigidity and durability. On machine tools, rolling bearings can be used in a variety of applications, ranging from the rolling elements that provide support and guidance to the spindle shafts in order to allow rotary and reciprocating motions.
Rolling bearings are used in the spindle of a machine tool in order to enable shaft rotation and provide guidance to the cutting tools. In a machine tool spindle, angular contact rolling bearings provide high support accuracy as well as a strong resistance to shock loads due to their large contact angle, ball-shaped raceway, and ball-shaped roller design. This allows them to absorb severe vibrations and axial forces, ensuring smooth and accurate machining process.
In addition, rolling bearings are also used in the feed axes of machine tools. Synchronizing feed axes require high precision due to the need for accurate positioning over long distances. Cylindrical roller bearings are preferably used as they allow for high load carrying capacity and increased speed capabilities, due to their accuracy and surface finish of the inner and outer raceways, as well as the large number of rollers in the row.
Rolling bearings are also used in the feed screw, which is the part that drives the cutting tool on the machine tool. Linear bearings are typically used as they provide a low profile and have a rolling element, providing higher loads carrying capacity than a sliding bearing. Additionally, linear bearings are resistant to vibration and shocks, as well as having a high degree of operational accuracy.
Another area of application for rolling bearings is the drive train of the machine tool. The drive train is responsible for the movement and operation of the machine, and includes components such as drive shafts, pulleys and belts. Roller bearings are used here because of their resistance to abrasive wear and corrosion, as well as their high load carrying capacity and high speed capabilities.
Finally, rolling bearings are also used in the control systems of machine tools. These are the systems responsible for controlling the movements of the machine tool and include servomotors, stepper motors and encoders. Bearing seals are used to protect the internal parts of these components, providing protection against contaminants and extending the life of the machine tool.
Overall, rolling bearings are very important and versatile components in machine tools. Their wide range of applications and excellent performance makes them ideal for use in all machine tools, from CNC machines to manual machine tools. With their high load carrying capacity, resistance to vibration and shock, and high level of accuracy and reliability, rolling bearings can be used for various tasks on machine tools, making them an indispensable part of the manufacturing process.
