Linear guides with no stick-slip effect for a CNC-controlled laser cutting system

• What was needed: drylin W linear guides, E2 mini energy chain
• Requirements: Low maintenance, long service life, reduction in manufacturing costs
• Industries: CNC cutting systems; machine tools
• Success for the customer: The linear units work without lubrication or maintenance. They also operate without a stick-slip effect and reduce manufacturing costs for the customer.

This CNC-controlled laser-cutting system works with a travel range of 1,000 x 500mm, which is navigated via stepper motors. The machine, which was designed for private hobby use, is equipped with a maintenance-free CO2 laser. Since it is intended for private hobbyists and not industrial use, longevity and maintenance frequency were not the only considerations for the individual components. The system also had to be economical.
A solution that met these requirements was also needed for the axes' linear guides. After roller guides had been rejected, an alternative was chosen for the prototype.

After detailed consultation, the customer decided in favour of drylin linear guides for the X-axis and Y-axis. Specifically, the CNC laser-cutting system relies on the drylin W guide rail WSQ-06-30 with carriages WW-06-30-06 on the X-axis. A drylin WS-10 linear rail in combination with two WJ200UM-01-10 carriages each were installed on the Y-axis (see Picture 1).
The travelling speed of the laser is thus up to 500mm/s without stick-slip effect. An E2 mini energy chain was also used to guide the cables (see Picture 1). The igus logo (Pictures 2 and 4) was cut out at approx. 20W of power and a feed rate of 8mm/s.
The linear carriages have the advantage that they require no lubrication or maintenance. Thanks to the tribopolymers in the linear unit, the system moves with minimal friction and a self-lubricating effect. This means that there is no need to add external lubricating grease.