Linear bearings

A linear bearing is a special type of bearing designed for linear motion along a rail or shaft, as opposed to rotational motion. The bearing elements are housed within a certain type of block, with either the rail or the block being fixed and the other part moving back and forth.

Ball bearings or rollers, or low-friction materials such as specialized plastics, may be used for bearing surfaces. There is an almost infinite variety of block and rail arrangements depending on the application requirements. There is no single "universal" linear bearing; all are designed for specific types of use. Due to the multitude of options, most linear bearing assemblies are ordered on demand, and the best technical engineering is usually done by the customer in collaboration with manufacturing engineers rather than distributors.

Any application requiring back and forth motion. The environment must be relatively clean because seals robust enough to exclude most contaminants would also generate significant resistance, reducing machine efficiency. For outdoor applications, low-friction materials may be more suitable.

This description covers the basic principles and applications of linear bearings, their design options, and challenges associated with selection and application in different environments. Its purpose is to provide a clear and concise introduction to the topic for the general public, while emphasizing the importance of specific design and technical approach in implementing linear bearings in practice.