Linear Motion
304 Stainless Steel Linear Bearing Rod | Metric Round Bar | 2-14mm Dia. x 125-500mm
CMP-04568LINE-00001
£2.99
Linear Motion
3 products available
Linear motion components provide smooth, precise movement along a straight axis. These systems are fundamental to automated machinery, CNC equipment, and 3D printers where accuracy is paramount. Our selection focuses on the core linear motion guides and bearings required for building or maintaining this type of industrial equipment.
Compel supplies a focused range of industrial linear motion products, including miniature linear bearing rail kits and stainless steel bearing rods. These components are sourced for reliability in common machine-building applications. We provide the foundational parts you need to construct accurate and repeatable motion systems for your trade or factory.
Guide Type: Integrated Rail Kit vs. Simple Rod
Your first decision is choosing between a complete kit or a basic component. Linear rail kits, such as the MGN series, include both the guide rail and a matching bearing carriage. This provides a constrained, ready-to-install system ideal for applications needing high precision, like CNC gantries and 3D printer axes.
A linear bearing rod is a simpler component, offering a hardened, precision-ground shaft. You must pair these rods with separate linear bearings to create a motion system. This approach offers design flexibility but requires you to source and align the separate components yourself.
Sizing Your Linear Motion Guide
Correct sizing is critical for performance and lifespan. For rail kits, the model number indicates the guide's width. We offer standard sizes from MGN7 (7mm width) for compact devices up to MGN15 (15mm width) for greater load capacity and rigidity. Rail lengths are available from 200mm to 800mm to fit various machine footprints.
For round rods, the key dimension is the diameter, which ranges from 2mm to 14mm. Larger diameters provide more stiffness and can support heavier loads without deflection. Rod lengths range from 125mm to 500mm. Always select a size that can handle the anticipated loads and stresses of your application.
Material and Compliance Considerations
Material choice affects durability and environmental resistance. Our 304 stainless steel rods offer good corrosion resistance for general-purpose use in typical factory conditions. For other components, check the product listing for material specifications to ensure suitability for your operating environment.
Some components carry RoHS certification, which restricts the use of specific hazardous substances. This is often a requirement for equipment intended for sale in certain markets or for use in electronics manufacturing. If your project requires a specific standard not listed, always verify compliance on the individual product's datasheet.
Buying guide
Choosing Linear Motion
- When should I use a linear rail kit instead of a rod and bearings?
- Choose a linear rail kit for applications that demand high rigidity and precision from a pre-matched system, such as a CNC machine. Use a rod and separate bearings when your design requires more flexibility or when you are replacing a component in a custom-built system.
- How do I choose the right MGN rail size for my project?
- Select the MGN size based on your expected load and the rigidity you need. Smaller guides like MGN7 and MGN9 are for light-duty, compact applications, while MGN12 and MGN15 are better suited for heavier loads and longer spans where stiffness is important.
- Is a 304 stainless steel rod suitable for a wet environment?
- 304 stainless steel provides good resistance to corrosion from moisture and water. However, it is not ideal for saltwater or harsh chemical environments. For those conditions, you would need to source a rod made from a more resistant material like 316 stainless steel.
- Do I need RoHS-compliant linear bearings?
- You need RoHS-compliant components if your final product will be sold in the EU or other regions that mandate it, particularly for electronic equipment. If you are building internal machinery, it may not be a requirement unless specified by your own company's standards.
- Are these miniature linear guides suitable for heavy industrial automation?
- The miniature linear motion guides (MGN series) are designed for precision equipment like 3D printers and small CNC mills. For heavy industrial automation with high loads or high-impact forces, you should consult the load ratings on the product datasheet or consider larger, more solid linear motion systems.
- Can I use an MGN12 carriage on an MGN15 rail?
- No. Carriages and rails are precision-matched and not interchangeable between sizes or often even between brands. You must use the carriage that is designed for the specific rail model and size to ensure proper fit and smooth operation.