A new lead screw configurator enables lead screws to be designed and machined without computer-aided design (CAD) programmes.

A lead screw, or translation screw, is used to translate turning motion into linear motion in a machine. 

Whether trapezoidal, high helix or metric threads, lead screws in combination with nuts made of polymers, aim to ensure lubrication-free adjustment for long-lasting and smooth running.

Technical drawing skills and access to a CAD programme are usually required to design and configure a lead screw. The process includes determining the right parameters, machining the lead screw, designing with the use of a CAD programme, checking for technical plausibility and ordering. The process may take several hours or even several days.

The new lead screw configurator aims to speed up the process, allowing users to design a lead screw and the associated drawing without in-depth technical knowledge and CAD.

Design Tool

The tool developed by motion plastics company igus, is able to check the plausibility of a configuration and enables users to design and customise an individually manufactured lead screw that matches a specific application, configure the machined-end and generate a dimension drawing. The three-dimensional model of the configuration can then be downloaded and the pre-configured lead screw can be ordered or a binding offer can be requested.

Configuration

The configuration takes place within three steps, as outlined below.

• Step 1: the user determines the lead screw type – whether trapezoidal thread, metric thread or the igus dryspin high helix thread. After selecting the thread type, the user can determine the thread direction, material and lead screw length.
• Step 2:  the machined ends are configured and the configurator offers the user the opportunity to configure the base body from outside inwards, and the option to add 12 standard elements such as chamfer, clamping surface or circlip to the machined end. The designer can download the dimension drawing and the price of the lead screw is also displayed.
• Step 3: the user receives an overview of the configuration, and the Standard for the Exchange of Product model data file can be downloaded for further construction or the configuration can be saved as a link for follow-up orders or to be shared. The configured lead screw can be ordered online and the order is then transmitted to the igus factory, where processing is started.