An ACME thread is a trapezoidal thread primarily used in mechanical drives and linear movements. It was originally developed in 1895 by the American Machinery Engineers (ACME) and is now standardized in many applications.
The trapezoidal profile distinguishes the thread with a 29° flank angle and a larger core diameter compared to metric trapezoidal threads. The wide thread flanks ensure improved power transmission and higher strength.
Advantages
- High load capacity due to wider flanks
- Easier manufacturing compared to metric trapezoidal threads
- Self-locking with smaller pitches, holding the load without additional braking
- Good wear resistance, especially in combination with lubrication
- Areas of Application:
- Mechanical engineering: Lifting spindles & presses
- Machine tools: Travel paths of milling and turning machines
- Linear drives: Adjustment mechanisms & vises
- Heavy-duty applications where high axial forces must be transmitted