Individual deflection is a type of ball return system in a ball screw drive, where each ball row has its own separate deflection. The balls leave the load zone of the nut, are returned via a single deflection piece, and then re-enter the raceway.
Operating Principle
- Each ball row has an independent deflection
- The balls transition via this deflection from the load-bearing zone into the return channel
- The deflection piece precisely guides the balls back into the load zone with low friction.
This creates a closed circulation system for the rolling elements, enabling continuous movement without ball loss.
Characteristics and Advantages
- Compact Design: Individual deflections require less installation space and allow for slender nuts.
- High Running Smoothness: Since each ball row is guided separately, more uniform running conditions are achieved.
- Low Noise Generation: Deflection is achieved with small, precise components.
- High Efficiency: Low friction losses within the deflection.
Distinction: Individual Deflection vs. End Cap Deflection
Individual Deflection: Small, laterally mounted deflection pieces, compact and quiet.
End Cap Deflection: Deflection mechanism located at the end faces of the nut, allows for higher load ratings and larger ball diameters.