THK rail question

[Drools]

Forgive me for posting this here, I posted it in the "linear rail" section but after 105 views no one has provided a suggestion.
Can THK SSR/SR rails be mounted upside down?
The picture shows THK SSR rails mounted to a 80/20 1530 (3030 could also be used) Ali. I was thinking about this for a Y-Axis in a moving gantry configuration. Has anyone used SSR/SR rails for a Y/Z Axis?
I can see how they would be prefect for a X axis...

Thanks for the help.

[bwprice100]

Hi

I have designed built plenty of machines and THK rails work just as well in any orientation.

Brian

[Drools]

The reason I ask is because I know certain types of THK rails can be mounted in any direction (equal loading) such as SHS and HSR. However SSR/SR is rated for horizontal loading and if I remember correctly top horizontal loads. Some have suggested that with hobby usage we will never come close to the loading capacity of these professional rails but going upside down with a rail meant for mounting the other way is a step out of the box.

[bwprice100]

OK I understand your question better.

Yes each type of THK rail can have a different ratting for loads in different orientations, including static and dynamic loading.
There is no reason why they cannot be mounted in any orientation as long as the rated loading is not exceeded.
See here for the full specification, you will also find THK themselves very helpful.
http://www.thk.de/pdf/212-10E%20SSR.pdf

Before you contact THK it is best to have some basic figures for loading, speed of movement and basic dimensions that show the position of the rails relative to the loads and forces.

I hope this helps

Brian

[ger21]

Some have suggested that with hobby usage we will never come close to the loading capacity of these professional rails

This is my take. The routers I use daily have cantilevered heads weighing 1000lbs or more and use fairly small rails, typically 20-25mm. They can carry tremendous loads. I wouldn't worry about it.

But if you happen to break them, I'd like to see it.