Shafts

Hardened and Ground Shafts for Linear Guides

Hardened and ground shafts are primarily used as linear guides in a wide range of applications. In combination with plain bearings, recirculating ball bearing guides, or track rollers, they provide highly precise, low-friction motion. The hardened surface ensures excellent wear resistance, while the ground finish guarantees dimensional accuracy and smooth running.

Wellen_2014

Hardened and ground shafts

Shafts for linear guides

Challenge

Linear guides require very low friction and high surface hardness in order to minimize wear and ensure precision. To meet these requirements, shafts are induction-hardened in the outer layer and subsequently ground. By selecting the appropriate raw material or applying a suitable surface coating, the optimal shaft can be configured for almost any application.

Value

Hardened shafts represent one of the most established solutions for linear motion. Typically used in pairs, they enable the transmission of radial moments. For shorter strokes, shafts can be operated unsupported, while for longer strokes they must be supported to reduce deflection and maintain accuracy.