Low friction across the whole line: specialty lubricants for linear guides

At the same time, start-stop operation, shock loads, high speeds and load capacities place extraordinary demands on the linear bearings. Klüber Lubrication develops and manufactures specialty lubricants for linear guides which are designed to match each specific application. They reduce friction and contribute to enhanced smooth running, protect linear rail actuators and bearings against wear and corrosion and help to attain longer relubrication intervals or even lifetime lubrication. The result is higher productivity and economy for a whole host of applications. Both manufacturers of linear guides and operators of machinery with linear drives can benefit from industrial specialty lubricants in a wide range of applications.

Linear movements are a special tribological challenge because lubricant is spread across the guide rail on a continuous basis. In addition, the frequent stroke movements under mixed-friction conditions encourage wear. Lubricants which are specifically developed for these requirements make an important contribution to extending the lifetime of linear rails and linear bearings. They offer the particular advantages of good lubricant adhesion, resistance to aggressive media and environmental influences and a sealing effect to keep out  production residues, dust and dirt.

Specialty lubricants increase the load capacity of profile rail bearings. They also enable lower starting-up torques thanks to reduced frictional resistance. In addition, the long-lasting lubricating effect of specialty lubricants means longer maintenance intervals and relubrication cycles. In many cases they even enable lifetime lubrication over 15 years or more, even at extreme temperatures. Where centralised lubricating systems can be eliminated as a result, this reduces costs in terms of design and maintenance.

The requirements to be met by lubricants for linear guides and linear drives vary according to the area of application. In machine tools, protection against fine shavings or aggressive cooling liquids plays a central role. For robots, medical engineering or wafer production, the focus is on precision and good adhesion. And in the automotive industry, where linear guides are used on steering and clutch actuators, brake boosters and foot brakes, reliability over the entire life cycle, under tough conditions and with many cycles, is key.

With drive-by-wire technology in car manufacturing and new-mobility applications involving new drive concepts, battery production and charging technologies, the field of applications for linear guides and ball screws is becoming wider. Klüber Lubrication develops and manufactures greases and oils which are precisely customised to match each application and meet the highest requirements. To do this we maintain close working relationships with manufacturers of linear guides, provide them with support on the selection of exactly the right lubricant solutions for their applications and develop products for new types of applications and innovative technologies.

Numerous certifications underscore this ambition. These include, for example, ISO 14001 and DIN EN ISO 9001 as well as IATF 16949 in the automotive sector. Klüber Lubrication also offers solutions for applications in the food-processing and LSI/pharmaceuticals industry, for example for packaging machines on which H1-certified lubricants are required. All industrial lubricants from Klüber Lubrication are available worldwide.

Top quality, reliability and innovation – that is what Klüber Lubrication stands for. We are your competent partner for all aspects of reliable lubrication of linear guides, linear bearings and profile rail bearings with grease and oil.

Are you looking for exactly the right specialty lubricant for your linear guide? Do you have questions, or do you need advice on a special solution?

We will be glad to help you - talk with our specialists about your project!