Lead Screw Applications

What is a Lead Screw?

A lead screw is a threaded bar of metal, like any other kind of screw. They have a threaded nut that moves along the screw generating sliding friction. This differs from rolling friction which other devices such as a ball screw may use.

A rotational motion will turn the screw causing the nut to move along in a linear motion. This, therefore, converts the motion from rotary to linear.

Within a lead screw, the screw itself is constructed of stainless steel, the nut can be constructed of various materials depending on what application the lead screw will be used for. Heavy-duty and industrial applications often require a metal nut, other less demanding applications may use a moulded plastic one. 

Lead Screw Applications

Lead screws can be used for applications that involve either vertical or horizontal movements and can use linear guides for support where necessary. They can either be operated manually or mortised depending on what they are being used for.

Lead screws are used as a component within various linear motion control systems. They are well suited to instrument grade applications, where a smooth and precise operation is required.

Some applications for lead screws are:

• Laboratory and life science equipment including DNA sampling
• Fluid handling devices
• Paper processing machines
• Engraving
• Rapid prototyping
• Bottle labelling
• Construction machinery
• Data storage
• Filing systems
• Inspection
• Component mixing
• Heavy lifting applications
• Miniature 3D printers
• Book scanners

Types of Lead Screws

We have a selection of lead screws available these are:

BSA Lead Screws – suitable for medical equipment, laboratory applications, transportation, and rapid prototyping.

V-thread Lead Screws – for high precision resolutions. Advancement per turn can be as small as 0.0125 inches. These lead screws are suitable for applications including microscope stages and fine adjustment applications.

Motorised Lead Screws – the motorized lead screws combine a hybrid stepper moto and a precision screw in a compact design.

Lead Screws from Heason Technology

Here, at Heason we have a wide range of lead screws from our supplier Thomson. Some of the features of our lead screws are;

• Compact
• High load-carrying capacity
• Easy to design into a system
• Minimal number of parts
• Smooth and quiet operation
• Little to no maintenance required

Our lead screws are accurate to 0.003in/ft and have a PTFE coating promoting longer life and less drag torque.

If you would like more information on lead screws, of if you have an application you would like to discuss please contact us.