From Robotics to EVs: The Growing Significance of Precision Ball Screws

Highlights

• Introduction
• Role of precision ball screw in EVs
• Developing outlook of Middle East and Africa precision ball screw industry
• Advancing the future of ball screws with sensors
• The advent of new products with the latest features

The automotive industry is rapidly advancing toward a future with precision, efficiency, and innovation. A key element in this transformation is the automotive precision ball screw, which is essential for improving vehicle performance and reliability. Precision ball screw is a mechanical element, which converts rotary motion into linear motion. It produces high mechanical efficiency in motion transmission, as it works on rolling friction, which makes it a preferred option for industrial applications such as robotics, material handling, and general-purpose machines.

Precision ball screw offers high mechanical efficiency in motion transmission due to its reliance on rolling friction, making it a favored choice for industrial applications like robotics, automation, material handling, and general-purpose machinery. Additionally, precision ball screws are utilized in injection molding machines, where they precisely control the movement of various machine elements. By converting rotational motion into linear motion, they enable accurate control over the clamping, injection, and ejection processes essential to molding operations.

Achieving optimal performance in EVs with advanced ball screw technology

The demand for precision ball screws is significantly increasing as the automotive industry transitions to EVs. Electric powertrains necessitate highly accurate and reliable components to achieve optimal performance and energy efficiency. Precision ball screws are applicable in electric parking brakes and battery management systems, where precision and durability are integral. With more automakers adopting electrification, the need for advanced ball screw technologies keeps growing. 

The high efficiency of ball screws reduces energy loss as heat, enabling EV motors to be smaller and lighter, which enhances both range and performance. Additionally, the reduced friction results in less wear, thus extending the lifespan of drivetrain components. Ball screws deliver exact linear motion, allowing for accurate positioning and control of EV components. This precision is applicable for industrial operations, such as steering, suspension, and active aerodynamics.

The high-power density of ball screws enables compact and lightweight designs, which is a significant advantage in EV applications with limited space. Hollow ball screws even accommodate the routing of cables or coolant through their center, further optimizing space utilization.

Evolving landscape of the Middle East and Africa precision ball screw industry

Middle Eastern countries are increasingly adopting industrial automation technologies, including robotics that depend heavily on precision ball screws for their functionality. This adoption is anticipated to increase the demand for precision ball screws. Moreover, the region is experiencing a surge in technological innovations, especially in aerospace and healthcare. Precision ball screws are a core component in high-precision applications, such as medical devices and advanced manufacturing systems, which are becoming increasingly popular in the Middle East.

Among the leading countries, Egypt is heavily investing in infrastructure projects, increasing the demand for precision ball screws. These components are used in various operations, including construction machinery and equipment used in large-scale projects. Additionally, the government's efforts to enhance transportation and logistics infrastructure further promote the growth of industries that rely on precision ball screws. The Egypt is expected to witness an impressive CAGR of 8.5% in the precision ball screw industry throughout the forecast timeframe. 

Enhancing ball screw accuracy with advanced sensors

Integrating sensors into the ball screw systems enhances their functionality by enabling real-time monitoring and improving overall performance. Recent innovations feature ball screws with radial force sensors embedded within the screw nut. These sensors accurately measure preload without being affected by axial thrust,  improving load and performance monitoring for the ball screw. Sensors facilitate the use of closed-loop control systems that adjust ball screw operations based on real-time feedback. This ensures optimal performance and accuracy under changing operational conditions.

Temperature sensors, like RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) sensors, are essential for monitoring thermal conditions. Because temperature fluctuations greatly impact the accuracy of ball screws, these sensors help ensure optimal operating conditions.

PBC Linear’s miniature metric ball screw assemblies

PBC Linear, a division of Pacific Bearing Company and a global leader in linear motion solutions expanded its portfolio with the introduction of Miniature Metric Ball Screw Assemblies in July 2022. These assemblies combine precision-rolled screws with compact nuts, delivering outstanding performance in a cost-effective package.

PBC Linear offers miniature ball screws in diameter of 10 mm, 8 mm, and 6 mm. with customizable options for nut type and lead length. They also provide standard and specially machined journals to meet unique customer requirements, along with choices for fixed or floating end blocks. PBC Linear’s miniature metric ball screw nuts come with two types of ball return systems, internal multiliner returns for shorter leads and endcap return systems for longer leads.

Thomson launched miniature metric ball screws in April 2024

Thomson Industries, Inc., a leading provider of linear motion solutions, introduced new German-based precision ball screw sizes with distribution and machining based in the US. These ball screws offer exceptional load capacity within a compact footprint. The miniature metric ball screw range features an exclusive multi-start ball return design that enhances support for higher loads. This model ensures smooth, quiet, and precise operation, making it ideal for applications demanding load handling and high precision in limited spaces.

To sum up, precision ball screws are advancing automotive technology, particularly in EVs, by enhancing efficiency, precision, and durability. Their increasing adoption in various regions, including the Middle East and Africa, highlights their importance. Furthermore, integrating advanced sensors optimizes their performance, ensuring reliability and accuracy in diverse applications.

Contact us for more information regarding use cases of precision ball screws among multiple industries.

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