Materials for linear bearings and slides

Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions and answers about the materials used in PM's precision linear guides and linear slides.

Which materials are used for a linear guide?

The anti-friction guideways (RSD, RSDE, RNG, N/O, M/V) are made of tool steel 1.2842 or bearing steel 1.3505, hardened between 58 and 62 HRC. These high hardness values offer the best wear-resistance over the lifespan. Stainless steel variants are also available (see next question). 

Type Material Hardness HRC
RSD 1.3505 / 1.2842 58-62
RSDE 1.3505 / 1.2842 58-62
RNG 1.2842 58-62
N/O 1.3505 / 1.2842 58-62
M/V 1.2842 58-62

 

Which materials are used for the stainless steel variants?

The stainless steel guides and rolling elements are made of 1.4034 or 1.4112, hardened between 54 and 57 HRC. 

What materials are used for the cages?

 

Cage type

Material

AA

1.4301

AL

Aluminium

KZR

POM

KKLK

POM

JJ

Brass

KRE

POM

KREV

PEEK

HW

Aluminium*

* Needle roller cage type HW are optionally available in steel or brass cage body.

Cylindrical roller, ball and needle rollers are made from bearing steel 1.3505

Cage for anti-cage creep linear guides: material POM is used for cage type KRE and PEEK is used for cage type KREV.

There are cages available for vacuum and ultra-high vacuum applications. Please contact us for more information about these products.

What materials are used for the (miniature) linear slides?

 

Type

Material

Hardness HRC / Finishing

RT

Steel

Black oxide 

RTA

Aluminium

Clear anodised

RTNG

Steel Back oxide

RTS

Steel

Black oxide

PMM

1.4034

54-57

PMMR

1.4034

54-57

MSR

1.4034

54-57

Are linear guides and slides available in ceramic materials?

Yes, we offer anti-friction guides and slides in ceramic materials for non-magnetic or ultra-high vacuum environments. The available ceramics used are:

Type

Material

Silicon nitride

Si3N4

Aluminium oxide

Al2O3

Zirconium dioxide

ZrO2

For the cage material, we offer stainless steel, POM, PEEK.

For more information about ceramic linear guides, please take a look at our product page.

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