Unlike typical bearings that enable circular motion, linear bearings, also known as linear slides, promote movement in a straight line and consist of a movable part and a guide rail. Linear motion is generally accomplished with the use of ball or roller bearings loaded onto a track that supports a surface, which can be moved back and forth, such as a table.
Types of Linear Bearings
We supply a wide assortment of linear roller & ball bearings, such as ball bushings, flanged ball slides, pillow block slides, guideway slides, shaft supports, and linear shafts.
Linear Ball Bearings: Bearings composed of an outer ring, steel balls, and a cage resulting in smooth and precise infinite linear motion. Commonly chosen for smooth linear motion in debris-free environments. When compared with linear sleeve bearings, linear ball bearings create less friction and can be run at higher speeds.
Linear Ball Bushings: Provide smooth linear motion via ball bearings. Linear bushings consist of an outer cylinder and ball retainer that houses the bushing components. These are commonly used in applications that require smooth, precise motion.
Applications
Linear bearings can be used in a variety of different industries such as medical, packaging, and food processing. Some common applications include:
- Lab Equipment
- Packaging Equipment
- CNC Machinery
- Robotic Equipment
- Consumer Goods – Electronics, Appliances, Furniture
- Automation Machinery
Manufacturers
Bearings Direct supplies linear ball & roller bearings, linear slides, linear shafts, and linear motion guideway bearings from manufacturers such as:
- Bearings Direct
- IKO Bearings
- INS Linear
Bearings Direct supplies a wide range of linear bearings (linear slides) for use in a number of different applications, in-stock and available for online purchase. You can view our inventory below or request more information here.
