THK, the leading global supplier of linear motion solutions, has launched what is believed to be among the world’s smallest linear motion guides.  The new versions of its proven RSR guides have carriages or blocks that measure down to just 4.0 mm in width, making them ideal for use in a wide range of miniature or precision applications, including electron microscopes, pick and place systems for electronics components, hard disk reading devices and medical equipment.

The latest versions of the miniature RSR are now available in block widths ranging from 4 to 10 mm and lengths from 6.2 to 17 mm.  The new LM guides are suitable for use with maximum rail lengths from 10 to 18 cm and have basic dynamic load ratings of 37 to 307 N. 

The RSR guides use a dedicated design, with the block running on precision ground stainless steel balls set into virtually frictionless raceways.  The balls circulate within the body of LM block itself,  enabling a wide range of stroke lengths easily to be accommodated.

Unlike competing linear motion guides, the construction of RSR ensures that a maximum number of balls are carrying the load at any point in time.  This means that the system is capable of carrying relatively high loads perpendicular to the rail axis. 

Wide block versions of the RSR are also available, increasing moment capacity, and all components can be supplied in stainless steel if required, for use in harsh environments.