Three relationships are enough
The lead (the distance the nut travels in one revolution) decides most of an axis's basic performance, and all of it can be calculated:
- Linear speed: speed = lead × rpm. A 5 mm lead gives 5 m/min at 1000 rpm; a 10 mm lead gives 10 m/min.
- Thrust: thrust = 2π × mechanical efficiency × motor torque ÷ lead. The smaller the lead, the more thrust the same motor torque buys.
- Resolution: resolution = lead ÷ pulses per revolution. At 1600 pulses per revolution, a 5 mm lead moves 3.1μm per pulse and a 10 mm lead moves 6.25μm.
Put together: doubling the lead doubles speed, halves resolution, and leaves roughly half the thrust on the same motor torque.
| Parameter | 1605 (5 mm lead) | 1610 (10 mm lead) |
|---|---|---|
| Linear speed at 1000 rpm | 5 m/min | 10 m/min |
| Thrust available from 1 N·m (efficiency 0.9) | About 1.1 kN | About 0.57 kN |
| Travel per pulse at 1600 pulses/rev | About 3.1μm | About 6.25μm |
| Travel per revolution | 5 mm | 10 mm |
Exact values depend on the motor, the efficiency and the duty cycle; the table is an order-of-magnitude comparison to check the direction of the decision.
Speed is never the only target
A larger lead can move the machine faster, but motor torque, load, acceleration and vertical-axis weight decide whether the axis can push reliably. Enough speed with a low thrust margin can cause lost steps, vibration or unstable positioning. For the same acceleration, a larger lead needs a larger motor torque, because thrust is divided by the lead.
The speed ceiling matters too: rpm is limited by the DN value (nominal diameter × rpm) and by the support arrangement, and long support spans have to stay below the critical speed. A large lead running slowly is often more stable than a small lead pushed to high rpm to reach the same speed.
For a machine-level example, see how to choose ball screw lead for a CNC router.
Replacement projects should not change lead casually
Old machine parameters, travel per pulse, limit positions and program compensation are usually set around the original lead. Changing the lead during replacement changes both the speed ratio and the positioning result unless the control system can be recalibrated. On a vertical axis, remember that a ball screw does not self-lock: holding position after a power cut depends on a brake or a counterweight, and changing the lead does not add that safety.
For the replacement checks, see what to confirm before replacing a ball screw in CNC repair.
Lead RFQ checklist
- State the current model or target diameter and lead.
- Provide travel, target speed, load, and horizontal or vertical mounting direction.
- Describe motor type, rpm, torque, coupling and support distance.
- Give the required acceleration, or the cycle time.
- For replacement, confirm whether the original lead and end machining must be kept.
FAQ
Is a larger lead always better? No. Higher speed does not automatically mean a better thrust margin, finer control or higher reliability; judge it against the duty cycle.
Can higher rpm make up for a small lead? Only within limits. rpm is capped by the DN value and the critical speed, and the ceiling drops as the support span grows. Forcing high rpm brings vibration and heat; on long travel a larger lead is often the better answer.
Does acceleration belong in the RFQ? Yes. Thrust sets the achievable acceleration, so with only a top-speed figure the motor torque cannot be checked. A cycle time or an acceleration target closes the selection quickly.
Next step
Turn this guide into an RFQ
When the specification direction is clear, send the details below together with quantity, lead time, and packing requirements.
Include these details
- Model, diameter, lead, accuracy grade, or target application.
- Load, speed, travel, mounting method, and matching rail or support-unit needs.
- Quantity, lead time, packing, and whether inspection records or shipment photos are needed.
Category
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