High-Load Ball Screws: maximum load capacity for demanding applications
For applications that require maximum forces combined with high dynamics, FEKS High-Load Ball Screws are the optimal solution for you. Thanks to a specially optimized raceway geometry, an increased ball diameter, and an improved contact angle, you benefit from maximum load capacity in a compact design. At the same time, they achieve impressive speeds of up to 150,000 DN with reduced noise levels.
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Max. static load rating: 7,800 kN
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DN limit up to 150,000
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Accuracy classes C7–C5
What are High-Load Ball Screws?
The secret to the high load capacity of High-Load Ball Screws lies in the raceway geometry. While standard ball screws have a flatter contact angle between the ball and the raceway, the FEKS series features an optimized contact angle. This increases the contact surface and distributes the load more evenly—resulting in significantly higher load ratings within the same installation size. In addition, the precisely matched ball diameter and lead ensure not only maximum force transmission but also optimized load distribution during operation.
For applications that require not only high load capacity but also high speeds, selected models of the FEKS series are optionally available as high-speed versions. These are equipped with a high-strength polymer ball cage that guides the balls during recirculation, reducing both friction and noise levels.
Your benefits at a glance
Maximum load capacity
Thanks to the optimized raceway geometry (contact angle, ideal ball diameter), these ball screws achieve extremely high dynamic and static load ratings. They are the ideal choice for high-load applications.
High speed
The patented recirculation system enables very high dynamics with a DN value of up to 150,000. At the same time, noise levels are significantly reduced due to the optimized deflector design.
High system rigidity
Because the required rotational speed for a given linear velocity is lower than with standard ball screws, less frictional heat is generated. This minimizes thermally induced elongation and improves process stability.
Typical applications
High-load ball screws are widely used in all-electric injection molding machines—especially in the clamping unit and the injection unit. In the clamping unit, very high forces are required to keep the mold closed during the injection process. In the injection unit, high forces combined with high dynamics are needed to precisely and quickly feed the material into the cavity.
In servo presses, ball screws are used to move the press ram precisely and with high force. Heavy-load versions are essential here, as they reliably transmit the high peak forces during the forming process. Compared to hydraulic presses, they offer higher energy efficiency and precise position control.
In large milling machines, machining centers, and gantry systems that handle heavy workpieces, high-load ball screws are also used. They ensure high positioning accuracy and rigidity even under high feed forces.
In process engineering, plant construction, and testing technology, there are numerous special-purpose machines that must handle high axial forces. In these applications, high-load ball screws are used as robust, durable, and precise drive elements.
Technical data (FEKS series)
Size ranges
Parameter
Nominal diameter
Determines the size and load capacity
Lead
Determines the feed rate per revolution
Dynamic load rating C
Basis for service life calculation
Static load rating C₀
Maximum short-term load capacity
Accuracy class
Achievable positioning accuracy
DN value
Describes the spindle’s rotational speed capability and is the product of speed and diameter
Rigidity K
Deformation under load (important for precision)
Permissible axial load
Maximum permissible compressive or tensile force, limited by the risk of buckling of the spindle
Size ranges
Design and maintenance guidelines
Design and maintenance guidelines
Materials
The lead screw of the FEKS series high-performance ball screw assembly is made from high-quality imported materials. Using an advanced induction hardening process, the screw thread is fully hardened. The nut is made of high-quality carburized steel, and vacuum carburizing technology provides the raceways with a consistent hardened layer, enabling the product to achieve its expected service life.
Installation and design guidelines
To ensure optimal performance and a long service life, please observe the following points during design and installation:
- Screw end: Design the screw end so that at least one end features a full thread. The outer diameter of this end must be at least 0.2 mm smaller than the root diameter of the thread to allow mounting of the nut.
- Alignment: The screw axis must be aligned precisely parallel to the guide rails.
- Mounting position: During assembly, the nut should be positioned as close as possible to the bearing. For long-term storage, we recommend hanging the screw vertically to prevent bending due to its own weight.
- Ambient temperature: The permissible operating range is –20 °C to +80 °C.
Lubrication
Proper lubrication is critical for the performance and service life of your Ball Screw.
- Lubricant selection: The choice between oil and grease lubrication depends on speed, ambient temperature, and load. Please ensure that different lubricant types (especially greases) are not mixed.
- Grease quantity: As a guideline, fill approximately one-third of the free internal volume of the nut with grease.
- Oil quantity (guideline values): The table below shows the recommended oil quantities depending on the screw diameter. The relubrication interval is approximately 3 minutes during operation.