Ballscrew Lubrication?

[Peter BellParticipant @peterbell11509]

[Peter BellParticipant @peterbell11509]

Hi,

Been checking my KX milling machine and setting up the table bearings as there was a bit of play.

Everything looks fine but I assumed that the oil pipes which dissapear into the inards went to the ball screws as well.

Of course they dont and the question is do I need to lubricate the ball screws?

Thanks

[MICHAEL WILLIAMSParticipant @michaelwilliams41215]

Hi Peter ,

Answer is yes , no and maybe .

Ball screws will happily run dry on light loads but there is no doubt that lubrication makes them run smoother , prolongs life and to small degree reduces backlash in non preloaded types .

Advice often given is to pack with grease and hope for the best . Far better to use a lighter oil and arrange a very small but regular renewal supply .

Can't always be done but best where possible to introduce oil into the nut rather than onto the screw outside the nut .

Just a trace oil is all that's needed . Bear in mind though that any oil will attract and hold dirt and metal dust so more detailed attention to wipers and shields will be nescessary .

Regards ,

Michael Williams .

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