Cross roller sliders are linear bearings that use cylindrical rollers to carry loads.The rollers run between parallel guides,where V-shaped grooves have been ground.The term "crossover" refers to the fact that the rollers are arranged in a criss-cross pattern;this means that each roller is oriented at a 90 degree angle relative to the roller next to it.To control their movement,the rollers were secured inside cages,similar to the cage ball or ball chain designs common in many Profiled linear guides today.

Because the cage floats between the rails,it drifts from its original position over time - especially in applications where the slider is mounted vertically or where full travel is not used,this movement of the cage is called cage creep.Cage creep is also induced by vibration and shock loads.When the cage is not aligned with its center position,the length of the stroke decreases and the cage will hit the end stop when attempting a full stroke,causing it to slide back to its center position.This not only damages the slide,but also causes the roller to slide instead of roll,which increases friction and heat,and shortens service life.

Metal cages hold rollers via a notch on the top and bottom of each roller.

To prevent this,manufacturers have designed several anti-creep mechanisms.The most common type is a rack and pinion system,which can be integrated into a component or installed externally.

 A rack and pinion type system,with the pinion integrated into the cage and the rack integrated into one of the guides.

Another method is to use a studded center roller,combined with a depression along the guide rail that engages the stud as the slide moves.Cross roller sliders are usually interchangeable between manufacturers and even with similar ball bearing sliders,but it is important to note that anti-creep mechanisms can cause sliders to deviate from standard dimensions.

Another anti-creep device uses a studded center roller that engages with indentations in the rail to keep the cage properly centered.

Click to select ALM high quality cross roller guides for your application:

www.autolinearmotion.com/cross-roller-guides.html