subject: Lead screw vs. Ball Screw: Determining the Best Design for your Application [print this page] Ball screw assembly eliminates backlash, as they are provided with a group of grooves and preloaded nut that helps in accurate positioning. They are available in a variety of sizes that are widely used for linear motion applications. These screws are specifically used in CNC machinery, precision machine tools, and industrial equipment, such as printing and textile machines. In addition, they are used in loading equipment. Commonly used lubricants in ball screws include grease, oil, or dry film lubricants. Typically, a coating of black oxide is used to surface finish ballscrew assemblies. This secondary operation offers low coefficient of friction, resulting in higher accuracy and better efficiency than the acme lead screws. However, ball screws do not require any anti-friction coatings as they have the ability to prevent formation of rust.
Lead screw vs. Ball Screw: Determining the Best Design for your Application