Linear Slides

[pbunnstf]

My background is not mechanical (electrical) and I am probably dangerous when I try to do mechanical design.

I notice that Thompson has linear pillar block bearings that are open. How far could you span with 1" shaft with only support on the ends? I would guess that it is not far with any load at all.

Could you place the shafts with end supports and with a 1/4 " wide aluminum bar running under the 1" shafts for support? Has anyone tried this or something similar?

I have seen it proposed that the bottom of the shafting be drilled and tapped for support but with case hardened shaft - I would suspect that it would be difficult.

[DareBee]

Open pillow blocks are designed to be used with fully supported shafting.
There is a T-bar support that they make for the shaft and the shaft comes pre-drilled for bolting to the T-bar.
If you are going to use end supported rails you should use closed bearings.
Open bearings are a more sloppy fit due to lack of closure but the supported rail removes deflection, on the other hand, closed bearings are much better than open but then your shaft is flexible because it is only end mounted.
The square block linears are WAY better than round (a SR40SS perhaps) but cost more as well.

[pbunnstf]

I have some Thompson Super Ball Bushing Pillow Blocks that are open(SPB16) and some Thompson 1" shaft. I have not seen and Thompson shaft that is made for support. Is there an available 1" shaft available drilled for support. I have not been able to find any.

I will probably use it for a z axis with short travel

[ger21]

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