Thomson recently introduced the 400 Series Profile Rail Linear Guides, a cost-effective solution engineered to deliver accurate, reliable and compliant linear motion in automation applications. The 400 Series is available in four meter lengths, in sizes from 15-45 mm in five mm increments, for extended joint-free rail transfer, even in smaller-sized applications. Double-faced ball track bearing arrangements allow for compliance to simplify installation, and enable equal load carrying capacity in all directions. The 400 series is available with standard or ball cage carriages that use the same rail design.

"The 400 Series delivers high value linear motion in applications with straightforward automation requirements.  These linear guides provide smooth, accurate and quiet operation; and in particularly sound-sensitive applications, a ball cage option can further increase smoothness and reduce machine noise," says Tom Dwyer, product line manager.  "With the 400 Series, one rail type can be installed where both standard and ball carriage options are used. This simplifies the bill of materials for a given machine and reduces component inventory requirements by enabling machine builders to standardize on a linear motion solution across multiple machine designs."

400 Series Profile Rail Linear Guides are rated to handle loads ranging from 9800 N up to 129,500 N. They feature a polymer ball-return tube that reduces noise while retaining lubrication. The ball cage option includes individual ball lubricant reservoirs to increase running smoothness and operating life, while reducing noise by up to 30 percent when compared with standard carriages, even at high speeds.