Ball Screw Wipers

A ball screw assembly is typically is not very complicated but they do incorporate a range of small parts. If all of the parts are working correctly, the ball screw will operate smoothly, as the ball bearings roll easily through the system.
However ball screw assemblies can be affected by any small obstructions. If a situation develops that samples of dust or dirt become lodged in the threads inside the ball screw nut, this will obstruct the movement of the ball bearings. A principal feature behind of the efficiency levels of ball screw assemblies is that they do not suffer from significant frictional effects. Any blockage in the interior of the ball screw assembly will reduce the smoothness, increasing frictional effects and lowering efficiency.

Wiper systems are typically made of miniscule brushes that brush along the interior of the ball screw nut, essentially clearing any foreign bodies away. These wipers are usually made from elastomer, felt or brush. A range of different approaches to wipers are currently being incorporated into ball screw assemblies. Every design has a a single principle objective, that is to collect any items of dust that might be inside the ball screw assembly. The most typical material that is used for wipers is plastic, i.e. elastomer, and they are designed to experience the maximal possible frictional effects. This is to aid the wipers in picking up any particle that comes into contact with them. Some wipers also contain a secondary felt wiper, which lubricates the threads of the ball screw nut with either oil or grease. In this cleaning system the plastic wipers clean the threads, while the felt wipers apply lubricant.
Wipers are useful to help improve the lifespan of a ball screw, and will have the greatest effectiveness if added to a properly sealed ball screw.