![]() ![]() Depending on the material and finish selection, the price may vary. ![]() Linear rails cost 2.5 to 4 times as much as a pair of linear rods per length at the same width and diameter. ![]() To account for using linear rods in pairs, I doubled their price. The linear rods are the 420 Stainless Steel linear motion shafts found in this link here. The linear rails used for this comparison are the standard 440 Stainless Steel guide rails found in this link here in McMaster-Carr. Given the wide variety of materials and specifications, I limited the data to the most basic linear rails and rods. Cost of Linear Rails and Linear Rodsīased on the prices shown in McMaster-Carr, a major retailer of mechanical parts in the US, I collected the prices for several linear rail widths and linear rod diameters to compare the prices of each. Since they are used in pars, is possible to spread the pair apart to achieve the desired width. However, if my goal was to create a wider support, linear rods might be a better option. For example, if my main goal was to create a compact 3D printer, linear rails might be a better option, given their ability to function individually. These basic considerations are usually good enough to eliminate one of the options. In some cases, supports, such as aluminum extrusion, are used for ease of alignment. However, they are typically supported at the ends and do not require additional support. Linear rods must be used in pairs to achieve one dimensional motion, which increases their footprint. Typically supports come the form of aluminum extrusions or a part of frame of the machine. However, linear rails require support along the rail. In general, linear rails could be used individually which makes for a more compact design. In this article, I will discuss the major factors that influence the selection of linear rails and linear rods. When I am trying to design a machine that will work every time for an extended period, I work in a deeper level of detail. However, linear rods are cheaper, easier to install, and could be used at a structural beam. If cost is not a limiting factor, linear rails are better at they could achieve higher precision, withstand higher loads, operate at higher speeds, and occupy less space. However, if I were to design a machine as a proof of concept, and I didn’t have a lot of time in hand, I could simplify the problem based on a few factors. And in many cases, the answer is not simple as it requires taking many factors into consideration. When you design a 3D printer, a CNC machine or a cartesian robot, one of the first design decisions you will encounter is choosing between linear rails and linear rods. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |