Trapezoidal screw (also known as threaded screw) is a common mechanical transmission element used to convert rotary motion into linear motion or to achieve force transmission. It consists of an arbor with a thread pitch and a nut that fits its thread. The thread shape of the trapezoidal screw usually adopts a trapezoidal section, so it is named the trapezoidal screw. The cross-sectional shape of the trapezoidal thread is similar to an isosceles trapezoid with symmetrical slopes on both sides. This thread shape allows the nut to move axially along the screw during rotational movement, achieving linear movement. The trapezoidal screw mainly has the following characteristics: 1. Lower transmission efficiency: Compared with the ball screw, the transmission efficiency of the trapezoidal screw is lower, mainly due to the greater friction. 2. Relatively simple manufacturing and low cost: The manufacturing process of the trapezoidal screw is relatively simple and the cost is low, which is suitable for some low-demand application scenarios. 3. Lower load-bearing capacity: Compared with ball screws, trapezoidal screws have lower load-bearing capacity and are not suitable for large loads and high-speed motion requirements. 4. Large clearance and return error: The trapezoidal screw may have large clearance and return error during the movement process, which is not suitable for applications that require precise positioning. Although the transmission efficiency and precision of the trapezoidal screw are relatively low, it is still widely used in some industrial equipment, automation systems, conveyor belts and other low-speed, low-precision or low-load occasions to achieve simple linear motion or force transmission.

Trapezoidal Screw: This is the core part of the trapezoidal screw, usually a metal rod with trapezoidal threads. The cross-section of a trapezoidal thread is trapezoidal in shape, hence its name. The threads on the screw usually include a ramp that allows the screw to push against the mating nut as it rotates, thereby achieving linear motion. Nut: The nut is a component that matches the thread of the trapezoidal screw, usually made of metal or plastic. The inside of the nut has a thread structure that matches the threads of the screw, allowing it to move linearly along the screw as it rotates. The design and manufacture of the nut can affect the performance of the lead screw, such as accuracy, load capacity and smoothness of motion.

The workers are inspecting the ball operation of the trapezoidal screw to check whether the balls are running smoothly on the trapezoidal screw and whether there are any jamming, abnormal noise, etc. During the quality inspection process, trapezoidal screw that do not meet the requirements need to be reworked or scrapped to ensure product quality and reliability. At the same time, qualified trapezoidal screw need to be packaged and protected to prevent them from being damaged during transportation and storage.

Ball screws can be relatively expensive due to several reasons: 1. Precision Manufacturing: Ball screws require high precision manufacturing processes to achieve tight tolerances and smooth operation. The manufacturing process involves grinding the screw thread and the matching ball nut to ensure optimal fit and minimal backlash. This precision manufacturing adds to the overall cost. 2. Quality Materials: Ball screws are typically made from high-quality materials such as hardened steel for the screw and a nut made from materials like bronze or steel. The selection of these materials ensures durability, corrosion resistance, and long operational life, but they can be costly. 3. Complex Design: The design of ball screws involves a complex configuration with multiple components such as balls, circulation systems, and seals. The precise engineering and fitting of these components to minimize friction, increase efficiency, and reduce wear contribute to the higher cost. 4. Performance and Efficiency: Ball screws offer advantages over other types of screws in terms of performance, such as high load capacity, accuracy, and minimal backlash. Achieving these performance characteristics requires high-quality materials and precision manufacturing, which can drive up the cost. 5. Specialized Applications: Ball screws are commonly used in applications that require precise linear motion, such as CNC machines, servo systems, robotics, and aerospace equipment. The specialized nature of these applications often demands stringent requirements, leading to higher costs. While ball screws may seem expensive compared to other screw types, their performance, accuracy, and durability make them valuable in many industrial and high-precision applications.

The load capacity of a ball screw depends on several factors, including the size, shape, material, and design and manufacturing quality of the ball screw. Generally, the load capacity of a ball screw is given in the technical specifications and parameter tables provided by the manufacturer. These specification tables usually list the rated load capacity, maximum load capacity, rated speed, and rated service life of the ball screw. The rated load capacity refers to the recommended load of the ball screw under the design calibration conditions, while the maximum load capacity refers to the maximum load that the ball screw can withstand, but may reduce the life of the ball screw or cause other side effects. The load capacity of a ball screw is also affected by the operating environment and usage conditions. For example, the load capacity of a ball screw may be reduced in a high temperature environment. Therefore, when selecting and using a ball screw, factors such as load type, direction, speed, acceleration, and operating temperature need to be considered. In summary, to determine the load capacity of a ball screw, it is best to refer to the specification table provided by the manufacturer and ensure that it is selected and used according to the actual application conditions.