RUE-F sixth-generation linear recirculating and guideway assembly sets new standards

• Lower operating costs: lubricant use reduced by up to 50 percent
• New mounting solution reduces cycle times in machine construction
• Optimized sealing technology ensures longer service life and improved reliability

Global automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler’s “RUE” range of linear recirculating and guideway assemblies has been delivering superior rigidity, load bearing capacity, precision and reliability to the machine tools industry more than three decades. The fifth generation of the range was launched in 2003 and has carved out a strong market position in milling and gantry machines, press manufacturing, straightening machines and many other applications. This success set a high bar for the designers of the sixth generation in the series, the new RUE-F.

Superior surface finishes in machining applications

Compared with its predecessors, the RUE-F generation offers significantly reduced stroke pulsation, a 40 percent reduction in required displacement force, and a reduction of up to 30 percent in displacement force fluctuations. These major improvements ensure greater ease of actuator control and increased positioning accuracy. When fitted on the main axis of the machine tool, the new assembly design delivers even higher surface finish quality. The lower displacement forces have a noticeably positive impact on energy consumption and actuator operating costs, especially in axes operating at high cycle numbers.

Lubricant requirement reduced by up to 50 percent

The innovative, flow-optimized design of the lubrication ducts ensures optimal lubricant distribution to all four raceways, irrespective of carriage mounting position, reducing lubricant consumption by up to 50 percent. The enhanced tribological properties increase the reliability of machines fitted with RUE-F guidance systems, and even extend their service life. For operators, lower lubricant consumption offers savings on a number of levels: they save on procurement and disposal as well as on lower oil separation costs for machines that use cooling lubricants.

Comprehensive sealing solution for optimal plant service life and reliability

The seals used in the new RUE-F linear recirculating and guideway assemblies have been specially designed to accommodate the trend towards integrated machining centers that combine multiple different production technologies. The upper and lower sealing strips feature an additional labyrinth seal. The new ultra-low friction end seal offers optimal wiping performance while delivering maximum protection against contaminant ingress. It is suitable for all guideway variants and all types of closing system, whether plug or covering strip. The end result is a standardized and reliable seal design for all guideway variants.

The efficiency gains start with the mounting system

Closing up guideway fixing holes is a key factor in the time it takes to mount linear axes. With this in mind, Schaeffler has developed a one-piece/two-piece plastic closing plug that comprises a clinch ring and the plug itself. The one-piece design concept makes the plug much easier to handle and drive into place. This cuts mounting times by some 50 percent in comparison with other closing-plug solutions. In view of these benefits, RUE-F linear recirculating roller bearing and guideway assemblies ship with the new one-piece/two-piece plastic closing plugs as standard.