Ball Splines

Ball splines are a type of linear motion control solution that provides linear motion control with almost no friction while also allowing for torque transmission. 

Linear motion ball splines feature grooves along the length of the shaft for the ball bearings to run inside. The outer shell that houses the ball, called a bushing, is not free to rotate about the linear ball spline shaft but is free to travel up and down the shaft.

A rotary ball spline incorporates a rotating element on the outer diameter of the nut. This enables the ball spline to have not only linear motion control but also rotary motion control. This causes the ball spline to act like a cross between a recirculating linear guide and a ball screw.

When Should You Use a Ball Spline?

Linear motion ball splines are most frequently used in dual-shaft configurations to prevent the bearings from rotating as they ride on the shafts.

Since linear ball splines are inherently anti-rotation, they can be used in single-shaft configurations. Implementing a linear motion ball spline can lead to a smaller footprint in confined spaces, less physical weight, and easier assembly and alignment.

Rotary ball splines are also an excellent choice for linear and rotary motion control in one, with the spline shaft providing the vertical movement and the rotary bearing providing the rotational movement.

Which Applications Do Ball Splines Suit?

Ball splines are excellent for applications that require linear motion control and sufficient torque control. Common ball spline applications include:

• Honing machines
• Robotics
• Oil, gas and water exploration
• Industrial automation
• Packaging solutions

As a splined shaft manufacturer, Matara UK can create linear ball spline and rotary ball spline solutions for a wide range of applications.

TBI Ball Spline Solutions From Matara UK

Here at Matara UK, we can supply the full range of TBI Motion Technologies’ ball splines. This includes the SLF series ball spline range, the SLT series ball spline range, the SOF series ball spline range, and the SOT series ball spline range. Here are some of the key features of the TBI ball spline range:

High Load-Carrying Capacity

Every groove on a TBI ball spline shaft is precision-ground to form a perfect 40° angular contact point. This 40° contact design increases load-carrying capacity and rigidity, enabling the ball spline to withstand a greater moment load.

Zero Angular Clearance/Backlash

The perfect 40° angular contact point of the TBI ball spline shaft, called the ‘Gothic Arch’, eliminates clearance that could generate deflections. This type of ball spline is therefore best suited to applications that require maximum precision.

High Sensitivity

The unique TBI Motion Technologies ball spline 40° angular contact is designed to drive with the minimum friction while maintaining the highest level of sensitivity and rigidity.

High Rigidity

The wide contact angle and appropriate level of preload in TBI Motion Technologies ball splines combine to provide high torque and moment rigidity.

EZY Mount on Design

TBI Motion Technologies ball splines are low-maintenance. When the spline nut needs to be removed, the spline shaft retains its design and shape, unlike the traditional spline nut design.

Get in Touch

If you want to find out more about Matara’s range of linear motion ball splines or are looking for a splined shaft manufacturer in the UK, contact one of our experts or visit our handy technical hub for more information.