Bearing eliminates cage creep problems

A new design of crossed roller linear bearing has been launched that eliminates the problem of cage creep, even in the most demanding environments, writes Dean Palmer

A new design of crossed roller linear bearing has been launched that eliminates the problem of cage creep, even in the most demanding environments, writes Dean Palmer A new design of crossed roller linear bearing has been developed which eliminates the problem of cage creep. Unimatic Engineers' ACC (Anti-Cage Creep) system promises zero cage creep even in extreme dynamic applications. Cage creep can occur in non-recirculating linear bearing applications, where vibrations, incorrect mounting, inadequate tolerancing on mounting surfaces, uneven preloading or moment loading, are present. In extreme acceleration or deceleration environments, the problem becomes more acute. Over time, the cage creeps out from the original position, resulting in increased friction, a reduction in travel length and premature wear of the linear bearings. The ACC system overcomes these problems even in applications with accelerations or decelerations up to 150m/s2. The system's all-metal design provides dependable service in applications where polymer designs may fail. And, because the ACC system is integrated into the design of the linear bearing without affecting the external dimensions, existing linear bearings can be readily replaced with ACC system alternatives. The ACC is well-suited to high speed, high precision applications, including the electronics and semiconductor industries. It's also suitable for general machinery applications, where OEMs are looking to increase parameters such as speed and travel to the limits, without compromising long term accuracy. Linear bearings integrated with the ACC system can operate in the range -40°C up to 80°C. The ACC system is available with all RSDE-series linear bearing railsets, in all accuracy grades.