We are surrounded by things that move in a linear fashion. At THK, their roots lie in the development of a THK LM Guide that can guide a device accurately along a straight line. This manufacturing know-how has let THK continue expanding the range of linear guidance products they produce. 

The THK LM Guide is THK’s main product. It incorporated linear rolling motion into practical use for the first time. It realized the development of high-precision, high-rigidity, and energy-saving, high-speed machines with long service lives.

Linear Bearings and Guide Rails

A linear-motion bearing or linear slide is a bearing designed to provide free motion in one direction. There are many different types of linear motion bearings. Linear bearings allow free linear motion. It consists of a movable part and a guide rail.

Linear bearings move on thk linear rails. Guide rails come in various shapes and sizes according to the shape of the linear bearings. There are recirculating balls in the bearings which carry the load. LM Guides can move at high speeds or carry heavy loads. Its components are made with high accuracy.

Applications of Linear Bearings

The bearing market consists of many different types, among them; journal, linear and thrust bearings. Bearings enable devices to roll and help in reducing friction between the surface of the bearing, and what it’s rolling over. Linear bearings are elements used for translation type motion and enable high precision linear motion on round shafts by utilizing recirculating ball pathways. Linear bearings help to bear loads with less noise. A linear bearing motion along a single axis provides less friction. It is used for low friction movements along a smooth rod. Linear bearings are less expensive than classical round ball bearings, but it is easy to integrate into a carriage design. The Linear bearing has a wide range of applications for industrial or automotive purposes. A linear bearing is used to provide free motion in one direction. It helps a device that is used to enable linear or rotational movement and reduces friction and handles stress.

For more information about THK linear bearings, please contact our slide bearing suppliers or refer to our product ordering guide for details.