Screw Jacks in the world of linear drive technology
In the realm of linear drive technology, there are various methods for moving loads precisely and safely. A standard solution is the Screw Jack. The basic principle of a Screw Jack is straightforward: rotational motion is converted into linear motion.
However, there are scenarios where a Screw Jack is not suitable. For instance, if the user has limited installation space for their drive solution and there's insufficient room for the retracted screw. Additionally, a Screw Jack may not be feasible when a lifting path of approximately 6 meters is required under load pressure, due to the risk of stability loss or even screw breakage under certain axial pressures.
In these described scenarios, an alternative drive solution to the Screw Jack comes into play: the Linear Chain. The only chain that operates in both directions – pulling and pushing.
Linear Chains are crucial components in linear drive technology. They show their true strength where other products like Screw Jacks, Linear Actuators, or positioners fail due to space constraints.
In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the advantages of a Linear Chain compared to a Screw Jack.
What is a Linear Chain and how does it work?
In essence, the Linear Chain can operate in both directions – it can pull and "push." This makes it the only chain in the world capable of such functions.
At first glance, this might seem contradictory. However, upon closer examination, it reveals a brilliant solution in linear drive technology. When the Linear Chain pushes, it suddenly transforms into a "rod." When the lift table is raised, the chain effectively becomes a rod. The shoulders of the individual chain links press against each other, forming a rigid unit. This allows the Linear Chain to lift or push loads.
The Linear Chain consists of specially shaped, highly precise mechanical chain links. These links interlock seamlessly and support each other with minimal play. When the lift table is raised, the Linear Chain pushes or "shoves" the load upwards.
The unique advantage of the Linear Chain is that the unloaded part is compactly "rolled up" in a magazine – like a rope.
Thus, the Linear Chain can "pull and push" with just one drive and without wasting space. This makes the Linear Chain truly the first and only chain that can both "push" and pull! It's a brilliant solution in linear drive technology, and above all, it is space-saving!
Stiffening of the Linear Chain
Key features of the Linear Chain
- Push Force: Ranges from 3 kN to 35 kN
- Standard Stroke Speed: Up to 250 mm/s; in special cases, speeds up to 1,000 mm/s are possible
- Temperature Tolerance: Up to 250°C (482°F); with special versions, continuous temperatures up to 560°C (1040°F) are achievable
- Bidirectional Operation: The Linear Chain can both pull and push
- High Load Capacity: Linear Chains can carry substantial loads and are designed for heavy industrial applications. They're robust and capable of withstanding high stresses
- Customized Solutions: Flexible configuration for tailored solutions
5 advantages of the Linear Chain over a Screw Jack
✅ Space-Saving Solution: Compared to a Screw Jack, the Linear Chain is more compact because it can be rolled up
✅ Higher Efficiency: The efficiency is 50% higher than that of a Screw Jack
✅ Longer Strokes: Longer strokes are possible without additional support
✅ Easier Maintenance: The Linear Chain is easier to maintain, as wear parts or chain links can be quickly and easily replaced without modifying the entire system
✅ Precise Load Positioning: Loads can be positioned directly, accurately, and with repeatable precision
What you should know about us
With decades of experience in manufacturing drive technology and a strong focus on innovation and quality, we are proud to offer our customers the best solutions. Contact us today to discuss the potential application of the Linear Chain for your needs or to receive a non-binding quote for your customized Linear Chain.
In our product portfolio, you will find the following products: Lift Gears, Screw Jacks, Spindle Drives, Electric Cylinders, MINI Actuators, Linear Actuators, and positioners.
Do you want to learn more about the unique Linear Chain?
You will be amazed. Linear Chains are incredibly space-saving and prove effective in very confined spaces. For more details, please click here.
Are you a designer and need CAD data quickly? Click here to find CAD data in various formats.
By the way, the entire drive system was implemented by our representative RA Rodriguez in the UK.
You can find our worldwide representatives at a glance here
Perhaps you also have an application in the high-temperature range?
Temperatures exceeding 1,000°C? The Linear Chain is also ideally suited for this. Feel free to request a sample chain and see for yourself the unique features of the Linear Chain. You benefit in four ways:
- Temperatures above 1,000°C (1832°F) are possible.
- High feed speeds – over 200 mm/s are achievable.
- Reduction of space requirements to a minimum.
- The chain storage can be placed at the desired location.
