What happens when a ball screw runs dry
A ball screw carries motion by rolling balls inside the raceway. Without lubrication the balls skid instead of rolling, friction torque and temperature rise, and wear, noise and positioning drift increase quickly. Many "noisy, hot, losing accuracy" reports trace back to too little lubrication or the wrong lubrication method.
Grease or oil
| Lubrication | Typical use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grease | Low to medium speed, intermittent or general positioning axes | Stays in place, simple maintenance, the default for standard parts |
| Oil | High speed, continuous running, heat removal | Needs a supply and return path, more maintenance |
The choice follows speed, load and continuous running time, not which one is better. Grease is easier at low to medium speed; oil controls temperature better at high speed or under sustained heat.
Interval and quantity
There is no single number for the interval: follow the screw manufacturer's maintenance table and adjust for conditions. Dust, heat and frequent starts shorten it; a clean, cool environment allows a longer interval. Add enough to fill the raceway with a slight excess — too little causes dry running, too much adds churning resistance and heat.
Match lubrication and protection to the condition
- Dusty processes such as woodworking, stone and laser cutting: dust sticks to grease and turns into an abrasive, so pair dust covers or bellows with regular re-greasing.
- High-speed machine tools: prefer oil or circulated lubrication with cooling, and recheck critical speed and DN value.
- Long idle periods: coat with rust-preventive grease, protect the shaft ends, and work the screw by hand and re-grease before restart.
RFQ checklist
- State speed, load, travel and continuous running time.
- Describe the environment: dust, coolant, humidity or temperature.
- Say whether a lubrication port or oil circuit already exists.
- On a replacement part, describe the original lubrication method and the failure symptom.
- Ask which lubrication method and maintenance interval ship with the order.
FAQ
Can a ball screw run without lubrication? No. Dry running makes the balls skid and raises friction and temperature, accelerating wear and noise and reducing accuracy.
Which grease should I use on a ball screw? Lithium-based or purpose-made ball screw grease is common; confirm the grade with the manufacturer and check compatibility with the rust-preventive coating and seals.
Does lubrication affect accuracy or backlash? Lubrication itself does not change clearance, but too little accelerates wear and therefore changes backlash; for preload and clearance see ball screw nut preload explained.
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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