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Guides simplify circular motion

A THK product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jul 8, 2003

The latest HCR circular guides from THK have been developed to help OEMs and end users construct rotary motion systems quickly, simply and at relatively low cost.

The latest HCR circular guides from THK have been developed to help OEMs and end users construct rotary motion systems quickly, simply and at relatively low cost, compared with traditional rotary ball or roller bearing mechanisms.

The HCR linear motion guides are ideal for use in a wide range of applications, from small rotary tables for machine tools, inspection systems and automation equipment, to medical MRI and CT scanners, large car park turntables, mobile crane supports and rotating observation towers.

Unlike many other methods of achieving circular motion, often requiring complex, multicomponent mechanisms, the HCR guides are supplied as complete, ready to install units.

Each comprises a segmented circular low profile guide rail and linear motion block and is based on THK's proven technology of recirculating steel balls, running in precision ground two point circular arc raceways between the block and rail.

The balls have 45-degree contact angles, thereby creating equal load ratings in radial, reverse radial and lateral directions, offering infinitely variable solutions to large diameter rotary problems.

The proven technology used in the HCR guides enables elimination of mounting errors and differential slip.

Perhaps as importantly, it significantly improves reliability and performance, meaning less noise, smoother motion and considerably reduced costs, compared with conventional rotary bearings of similar diameters.

One of the key advantages of the HCR guides is the simplicity with which rotary systems can be created.

Installation is quick and easy as rails can be located using stopper blocks or positioning pins on one side of each rail, while rails can simply be butted together to create complete circular systems.

In addition, HCR guides can be installed in any orientation and are available in a range of sizes and radii, making it possible to form large structures in excess of 5.0m in diameter; due to the simple assembly process it is also easy to dismantle and reassemble these structures, giving potential into portable applications.

The cost advantage of the HCR guides over competing ball or roller bearing mechanisms increases as the size of the circular motion system grows.

A range of mounting options, plus long life, low maintenance accessories are available.

These include end and side seals and scraper rings, designed to extend the operating window in particularly demanding applications or where there are high levels of contamination.

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