Maximum Operating Temperature of Linear Guides

Linear guides' maximum operating temperature differs by material, lubrication method and design, requiring case-by-case consideration.

1. Conventional Linear Guides

Most standard linear guides (like those with built-in C-Lube self-lubricating components) have a maximum continuous operating temperature of 80°C and a maximum transient operating temperature not exceeding 100°C, a range suitable for typical industrial environments including automation equipment and machine tools.

2. High-Temperature Models

For high-temperature applications some manufacturers provide specially designed heat-resistant guides: models without built-in self-lubricating components (such as certain IKO products) have a continuous operating temperature up to 100°C and a short-term tolerance of 120°C; metal-reinforced models (like the NSK heat-resistant series) use SUS end caps and fluororubber seals to raise the maximum continuous operating temperature to 150°C with transient operating temperatures reaching 200°C; High-Temperature series (such as the THK M1 series) have a maximum operating temperature of 150°C, suitable for extremely high-temperature environments like metallurgy and casting.

3. Impact of Temperature on Performance

Temperatures exceeding 100°C may cause the following issues: material performance degradation as rolling element surface hardness decreases leading to reduced load capacity; lubrication failure since ordinary grease decomposes above 120°C requiring replacement with high-temperature grease (e.g., lithium soap-based grease has a maximum operating temperature of 120°C); seal aging as nitrile rubber seals have a maximum operating temperature of 120°C above which they must be replaced with fluororubber or metal seals.

4. Precautions for Low-Temperature Environments

Use in environments below 0°C requires anti-rust measures including replacing end covers with stainless steel, applying anti-rust treatment (such as AP-HC surface treatment) to the guide rail surface and selecting low-temperature grease to prevent rust from condensation.