What is the lifetime of a ball screw

The lifetime of a ball screw, commonly referred to as the useful life or service, can vary depending on several factors such as the operating conditions, load, speed, lubrication, and maintenance. A properly designed, installed, and maintained ball screw can have a long service life.

Ball screws are typically rated for a certain number of revolutions or travel distance before they reach the end of their useful. This rating is known as the fatigue life or L10 life. L10 life represents the point at which 90% of a population of ball screws would be expected to still be functioning without experiencing fatigue failure.

The L10 life is influenced by various factors, including the dynamic load on the ball screw, the speed of operation, the type and quality of the ball screw assembly, the lubrication used, and the operating environment. Higher loads or faster speeds may reduce the L10 life, while proper lubrication and maintenance can extend it.

It's important to note that the L10 life is an estimated value and not a guarantee. It is based on statistical calculations and assumes normal operating conditions. In practice, the actual lifetime of a ball screw can vary. Therefore, regular inspection, maintenance, and replacement of worn components are necessary to ensure reliable performance and prolong the life of the ball screw.