In CNC machine tools, 3D printing equipment, and various automated machinery, ball screws, as precision transmission components, perform the critical task of converting rotational motion into linear motion. The SFU1605 is one of the most widely used models, commonly found in laser cutting machines, 3D printers, and light-duty CNC milling machines. This article will comprehensively analyze the SFU1605 ball screw from four perspectives: basic parameters, structural composition, performance characteristics, and application value.
1. Analysis of the Basic Parameters of the SFU1605
A ball screw model typically includes key information such as diameter and lead. The main parameters of the SFU1605 are:
- Screw diameter: 16 mm;
- Lead: 5 mm;
- Nut type: Flange nut;
- Precision grade: Commonly C7 (standard precision), some high-end models can reach C5 (high precision);
- Load capacity: Medium, suitable for applications requiring high precision but not extreme loads;
- Transmission efficiency: Over 90%.
2. SFU1605 Structure
A ball screw primarily consists of a screw shaft, nut, circulation system, balls, and dust seals. The typical structure of the SFU1605 is as follows:
2.1 Screw Shaft
The surface is machined into high-precision spiral grooves for ball circulation.
The material is typically high-carbon chromium bearing steel (GCr15), heat-treated and ground to ensure hardness and wear resistance.
2.2 Nut
The SFU1605 adopts a flange nut design with an external mounting flange for easy attachment to mechanical structures.
The internal threads mate with the screw shaft grooves to form a ball circulation path.
2.3 Balls
The balls, typically 2.38mm or 3mm in diameter (depending on the manufacturer), roll continuously between the screw groove and the nut, achieving low-friction transmission.
They are typically made of high-strength bearing steel or ceramic.
2.4 Ball Return System
ensures continuous ball circulation within the nut.
The SFU1605 is commonly designed with a built-in return tube or end caps.
2.5 Seals
Attached to both ends of the nut, they prevent dust intrusion and retain grease.
This seal is particularly important in harsh operating conditions, significantly extending the lifespan.
3. Performance Features of the SFU1605
3.1 High-Precision Transmission
Due to ball recirculation, friction is significantly lower than that of ordinary trapezoidal lead screws, achieving repeatability within 0.05 mm, making it suitable for high-precision positioning applications.
3.2 High Efficiency and Low Friction
Ball screws utilize rolling friction, resulting in transmission efficiency exceeding 90%. Compared to sliding screws, the same motor torque can achieve higher thrust and speed.
3.3 Moderate Load Capacity
The SFU1605 is a medium-load-capacity ball screw that can withstand moderate axial loads while maintaining high precision, making it widely used in CNC and automation equipment.
3.4 Easy Installation and Maintenance
The flange nut design makes installation easier.
Lubrication is accessible through the oil filling port, making maintenance relatively simple.
3.5 Long Life and Stability
Under proper lubrication and installation conditions, the SFU1605 can achieve a service life of over thousands of hours, meeting the requirements for long-term stable operation.
4. Applications of the SFU1605
4.1 CNC Machine Tools
Commonly used in the X/Y/Z axes of light-duty CNC engraving machines, milling machines, and lathes.
High precision ensures cutting quality.
4.2 3D Printing and Laser Cutting Machines
The SFU1605 provides stable lifting motion in the Z-axis drive of 3D printers or laser cutters.
4.3 Automation Equipment
Used in applications requiring precise positioning, such as dispensing machines, placement machines, and measuring instruments.
4.4 Industrial robots
Used in joint actuation, end effector lifting, and other applications, ensuring smooth and precise movement.
5. Key Points for SFU1605 Installation and Maintenance
5.1 Installation Precautions
Ensure good coaxiality between the screw shaft and the support base to avoid wear caused by eccentricity.
Select an appropriate support method (such as fixed-support or fixed-fixed) to reduce vibration.
5.2 Lubrication and Maintenance
Regularly apply lithium-based grease or specialized ball screw lubricant.
Avoid dry friction to prevent rapid wear between the balls and the grooves.
5.3 Common Problems and Solutions
Excessive clearance: Eliminate the clearance by pre-tightening the nut.
Increased noise: Check for insufficient lubrication or ball damage.
Stuttering: This may be due to eccentric installation or foreign matter intrusion; cleaning and recalibration are necessary.
Conclusion
With specifications of 16mm diameter and 5mm lead, the SFU1605 ball screw offers a balance of precision, efficiency, and load capacity, making it widely used in CNC machine tools, 3D printing, and automation equipment. Its flange nut structure design, ball circulation system and high transmission efficiency make it the first choice for light and medium-sized precision transmission equipment.