Linear Rails and Guides
A linear rail, or linear guide, is a system which helps with the movement and supporting of a piece of equipmentin a linear fashion, either vertically or horizontally. We have a high load, high precision, gothic arc profile linear guide system, to DIN 645, interchangeable with other major competitors systems.
Automotion Components have been experts in this industry for over 50 years and have created our website with engineers in mind. All products have free downloadable CAD files, catalogues with technical pages to aid product selection, and live price and stock availability.
One of our knowledgeable technical team are always on hand to help with your application.
A linear rail, or linear guide, is a system which helps with the movement and supporting of a piece of equipmentin a linear fashion, either vertically or horizontally. We have a high load, high precision, gothic arc profile linear guide system, to DIN 645, interchangeable with other major competitors systems.
Automotion Components have been experts in this industry for over 50 years and have created our website with engineers in mind. All products have free downloadable CAD files, catalogues with technical pages to aid product selection, and live price and stock availability.
One of our knowledgeable technical team are always on hand to help with your application.
A linear rail, or linear guide, is a system which helps with the movement and supporting of a piece of equipmentin a linear fashion, either vertically or horizontally. We have a high load, high precision, gothic arc profile linear guide system, to DIN 645, interchangeable with other major competitors systems.
Automotion Components have been experts in this industry for over 50 years and have created our website with engineers in mind. All products have free downloadable CAD files, catalogues with technical pages to aid product selection, and live price and stock availability.
One of our knowledgeable technical team are always on hand to help with your application.
Linear Rail Options
Our most popular linear rail systems with either flanged or un-flanged carriages (L1016.F or L1016.U). Width sizes 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45 and 55mm. Lengths up to 4 metres and rear-fixing rails also stocked (L1016.RF). Ultra-low profile carriages also available (L1016.UL).
We also stock a wide range of hardened stainless steel linear rails for applications in which space may be at a premium. Available in width sizes 5, 7, 9, 12, 15mm. Carriages (L1010.C) and clamps (L1010.CL) are also in stock.
Our anodised aluminium linear rails offer a 60% weight reduction over standard steel or stainless steel. They contain hardened stainless steel raceways for added durability. 15, 20 and 25mm versions available. Compatible with standard carriages (e.g. L1016.F) or special aluminium carriages L1018.F and L1018.U.
Blackened front fixing linear rail, comes in 15mm, 20mm & 25mm lengths. Rear-fixing versions (L1016.BR) and matching blackened carriages (L1016.F-BC and L1016.U-BC) also available.
X-rails are highly cost-effective systems for linear motion. Shown here in zinc-plated steel (L1970) but also available in stainless steel (L1971) for added corrosion resistance. For more information, see our X-rail technical page or our catalogue. Excellent for applications such as drawers, protective screens, battery casings etc
Low cost AISI 316 stainless steel rail system suitable for outside and marine environments. Stainless steel (A4, 316L) rail systems (L1971) can be used in wet or corrosive environments (including sea water).
Needle roller rail systems are made from hardened and ground steel. They are suitable for heavy duty needle roller carriages L1017.U (unflanged) and L1017.F (flanged).
Crossed roller rails, or crossed roller bearings are low profile, high precision rail sets.
Our easy-to-install linear rail range consists of T-rails, U-rails and K-rails. The combination of a master and slave rail means that some misalignment is allowed for and these rails are easy to install and operate. Range of light to heavy duty sliders, some with wipers to help clear dust or debris out of the way. Can be used with our range of lead screws and ball screws.
Curvilinear motion can be achieved with our curved rails. Dimensions arranged by request. Can be produced in zinc-plated steel or stainless steel. Constant radius curved rails also available (L1978.CR).
Easy slide high-load rails come in sizes 28, 35, 43 or 63. They are made from zinc-plated steel with induction-hardened steel raceways.
Click on product group below to see more detailed overview
Installation
The linear guideways are very accurate and as a result need to be installed on accurately prepared surfaces. If the two rails are installed parallel to each other, they need to be accurately aligned – see assembly precision page.
If you are not able to prepare the surface as accurately as required you might want to consider using our Compact Rail system, as this has a master rail (T rail) and a slave rail (U rail) that allows for structural inaccuracies.
Mounting the carriages to the rails
In general the carriages will be supplied separately to the rails. To install the carriage onto the rails, offer the carriage up to the rails and slide it onto the rail itself.
FAQs
What lengths can be provided?
We have standard rail lengths on the website. These are based on the hole pitch of the rails, however we typically stock rails in 4 metre lengths and can cut the rail (from stock) to any length required - we just need to know the distance required to the first hole. Our cutting procedures allow for a +/-2mm accuracy on the overall rail length. If greater accuracy than this is required, then we have to machine the end accurately (rather than cut it) and this involves extra time and cost. Standard maximum length for each rail ize is around 4 metres. Rails can be joined together but the preparation needs to be made on our workshop. The rails will be marked clearly with the ends to be placed adjacent to each other.
Linear Rails vs Linear Shafts: Which are better?
Linear rails and linear shafts both perform similar functions however there are subtle differences. Owing to its high rigidity, linear rails have much less flex and can support heavier loads. Linear rails also provide a more stable platform when compared to linear shafts, preventing rotation and providing more accurate and steady results. Conversely, linear shafts are typically a more cost effective solution and are easier to manufacture in custom configurations to suit any application.
What is a Linear Rail used for?
Linear rails are utilized in a variety of different industries and are used for moving items through a production process with great precision and minimal friction. If you require a system that’s suitable for applications that require high precision, a long life and high rigidity then linear rails provide the perfect solution. Linear rails are available in a variety of sizes, preloads and accuracy classes.
Can Linear Rails be used sideways?
Linear rails are designed to support the movement and load of a piece of equipment in a linear fashion, either horizontally or vertically. Highly precise and extremely rigid, linear rails are also designed to withstand downward loads, lift-off loads and moment loads. If you require technical help or support please get in touch with Automotion Components today.
What industries can Linear rails be used in?
With a wide range of styles and material options, we cover almost every industry. Typical examples of industries in which OEM's trust our products include special purpose machinery, packaging machinery, medical equipment, marine industry, transportation and Defence.
What is the right Linear Rail for my application?
In order to determine this, it is important to understand key criteria within your application such as the loads and moment loads involved, the speed at which is is travelling, the environment it is operating in and the size of the item being moved, to name a few. Please contact our experts who can guide you towards the correct product selection.
Why choose Automotion Components?
Trusted by engineers for over 50 years due to the quality of our products, level of support given at any time, large stock holdings of linear rails in our UK warehouses and expert technical knowledge. We are your go-to supplier for Linear Rails.
