THK has launched a new high capacity ballscrew especially designed for use in heavy load applications predominantly found in the machine tool industry. Capable of transporting more than double the average dynamic load, the HBN  incorporates THK’s Caged Ball™ technology with a high speed ball-return system – which enables the typical DN value to almost double. This makes it particularly suitable for use in applications such as CNC machines, drills and grinders.

THK has enjoyed worldwide success with its Caged Ball™ technology, which works on the principle that if the balls in a raceway are prevented from impacting against one another, rolling resistance variation is reduced to 1/10 of that of conventional systems. This, in turn, reduces friction, stress and heat. Smoother operation is provided through the incorporation of grease pockets between each ball bearing, ensuring that a continual film of lubricant is provided, preventing wear and reducing the need for maintenance.

The internal structure of the HBN not only allows for greater load ratings (up to 1,283kN), it also cuts energy consumption by up to a third and ensures greater positional accuracy, which is vital in machine tool applications where precision is paramount. Furthermore, when used in conjunction with THK’s QZ lubrication system, performance of the HBN can be improved still further as the unique design of the QZ system significantly reduces the consumption of lubricants and eliminates the need for maintenance altogether, thus reducing overall operating costs.

Bob Love, Technical Manager at THK explains: “The HBN ballscrew is the third from THK’s ballscrew range to incorporate Caged Ball™ technology. Continuing with our theme of high performance, economical, maintenance free products, the HBN achieves all of these, combining high speed, heavy load movement with maintenance free technology.”