Methods to Improve the Accuracy of Ball Screws

The accuracy of ball screws depends on manufacturing precision, preload, thermal stability, alignment, and maintenance. For ultra-high precision (C0–C1), grinding and thermal compensation are essential. For industrial applications (C3–C5), proper mounting and lubrication ensure long-term accuracy.
Key Accuracy Grades (ISO 3408 / DIN 69051)
Ball screws are classified into accuracy grades based on travel deviation per 300 mm  
Factors Affecting Ball Screw Accuracy
1. Lead Error (Pitch Accuracy)
Definition: The difference between actual and theoretical travel distance per revolution.
Improvement: Precision grinding and laser calibration.
2. Backlash (Axial Play)
Cause: Clearance between balls and grooves.
Solution: Apply preload (double-nut or offset preload design).
3. Thermal Expansion
Effect: Heat from friction causes elongation (~12 µm per °C per meter for steel).
Mitigation:
Use cooling systems (air/oil cooling).
Ceramic balls (lower thermal expansion).
Thermal compensation in CNC controllers.
4. Mounting & Alignment Errors
Misalignment causes binding and premature wear.
Solution:
Precision alignment with guide rails (laser alignment).
Stiff bearing supports (angular contact bearings).
5. Wear & Lubrication
Worn balls/nuts increase backlash.
Solution:
High-performance grease/oil.
DLC coatings for wear resistance.
6. External Vibrations & Loads
Dynamic forces reduce repeatability.
Solution:
Damping systems.
Stiffer screw diameter for heavy loads.
Methods to Improve Ball Screw Accuracy
1. High-Precision Manufacturing
Grinding (not rolling) for C0–C3 grades.
Lead error mapping & compensation in CNC systems.
2. Preload Optimization
Double-nut preload eliminates backlash.
Torque-controlled preload adjustment.
3. Thermal Management
Cooling jackets for high-speed screws.
Low-friction coatings (TiN, DLC).
4. Rigorous Assembly & Calibration
Laser interferometer checks for lead accuracy.
Proper bearing preload to minimize axial deflection.
5. Maintenance & Monitoring
Regular lubrication (grease intervals).
Wear inspection (backlash measurement).
Ball screw manufacturer - Pinsi handles precision ball screws and rolled ball screws that are high precision and high reliability. We designs and manufactures precision ball screws for the sectors of machine tools, injection moulding, presses and other heavy load applications.